MONTREAL, QUEBEC – Dubai Airshow – Bombardier confirmed today that airBaltic will be the first customer to operate the CS300 aircraft when it takes delivery in the second half of 2016.

The Latvian flag carrier has 13 CS300 aircraft on firm order and retains options for seven CS300 aircraft.

“Bombardier’s CS300 airliners are integral to the execution of airBaltic’s business development strategy and fleet optimization plan. As the airline increases its network potential, we will do so by replacing older jet aircraft,” said Martin Gauss, Chief Executive Officer, airBaltic. “The CS300 aircraft has exceeded our expectations in terms of its noise and emissions footprint, aligned with airBaltic’s low environmental impact vision. Additionally, it will offer airBaltic passengers a widebody, unparalleled in-flight passenger experience, perfectly complementing our modern fleet of 12 Bombardier Q400 turboprops.”

“We are thrilled to confirm that airBaltic will be the first airline in the world to operate the CS300 aircraft. As one of Europe’s leading innovative airlines, airBaltic is successfully reshaping its business plan and expanding network capacities on the backbone of the C Series aircraft – which will provide the perfect fusion of performance, technology and comfort,” said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “The unrivaled cabin living space offered by the CS300 aircraft will allow airBaltic to optimize its extra capacity seating offerings without comprising passenger comfort, together with world-class flying experience”.

Established in 1995, airBaltic is the main carrier in the Baltic region and operates direct flights out of Riga, Latvia and serves 60 destinations spanning Europe, Scandinavia, Russia, Commonwealth of Independent States and the Middle East with a fleet of 25 aircraft.

Bombardier has booked orders and commitments for 603 C Series aircraft, which include firm orders for 243.