New Zealand boosts defence spend to US$6.6 billion and vows increased closeness with Australia
This budget will be spent over the next four years and nearly doubles the country’s defence spending as part of GDP to 2%.
Jazz signs LoI for up to 30 Q400 NextGens
Jazz Air has signed a Letter of Intent with Bombardier Commercial Aircraft subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, to finalise a binding purchase agreement for a firm order of 15 Q400 NextGen aircraft with options for an additional 15 aircraft.
Aircraft deliveries are planned to commence in May 2011. The aircraft, which would be the first 400s in Jazz’s fleet, will be configured with a single-class cabin accommodating 74 passengers.
"The introduction of the Q400 NextGen is a perfect complement to our fleet of Canadian built Bombardier turboprops and regional jets," remarked Joe Randell, president and chief executive officer, Jazz Air. "Jazz's extensive route network spans North America; the Q400 NextGen provides the right economics and seat capacity to efficiently serve our many niche markets that include short to medium length routes. We continuously strive to improve our economics to provide better value to our stakeholders. The operating costs of the Q400 NextGen are among the lowest of any regional aircraft. The agreement reached last year with Air Canada to extend the term of our commercial agreement and their commitment to fleet renewal will strengthen our position in our industry."
The first 15 Q400 NextGen turboprops will replace 15 50-seat regional jets (pictured). The terms and conditions of the proposed purchase transaction are confidential.
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