The Bombardier Q400:
Porter Airlines has a firm order with Bombardier Aerospace for 10 Q400 turboprop
aircraft. The total contract, which includes an option to purchase an additional
10 aircraft, is valued at more than $500 million (US).
The Q400 is an extraordinary modern-technology turboprop. Designed to meet the requirements
of airlines for more seats and greater speed in the high-density regional arena,
the Q400 is also replacing and supplementing jets on many regional and mainline
routes worldwide. Over 150 Q400 aircraft have been ordered, and Porter is the
15th operator of the type.
The Q Series aircraft are the quietest turboprops flying today, thanks to the development
of a revolutionary Noise and Vibration Suppression (NVS) System. Not only does this
NVS technology significantly reduce noise levels, it also reduces cabin vibration,
making the flight as comfortable as possible.
With a maximum cruise speed of 360 kts and outstanding airfield performance, the
Q400 provides airlines with greater revenue-generating opportunities in regional
and low cost markets and extends an airline's reach well beyond traditional turboprop
markets. The Q400 is easily as fast as most jets on airline routes under 500 miles
(900 km) and its operating costs, lowest of any regional aircraft today, are enabling
it to compete effectively against established low-cost carriers.
The Pratt & Whitney PW150A engine is the most advanced turboprop engine currently
in production. Based on the PW4000, it is built with a blend of smart technology
and low complexity, offering a new standard in reliability, durability, and operating
economics. And while the PW150A produces nearly twice the take-off power of older
turboprop engines, it is nearly 50 per cent more fuel-efficient.
The Q400 aircraft was designed and is built in Toronto at the Bombardier Aerospace
plant. The historic deHavilland plant in Downsview employs about 3,600 unionized
and non-unionized aerospace workers. The Q400 aircraft engines are also designed
and manufactured in Canada – Pratt & Whitney Canada (PWC) employs hundreds
of engineers and skilled workers in Ontario and Quebec.
The Q400 and the Environment:
Large turboprop-powered aircraft like the Q400 are leading the “green”
aircraft trend. The Q400 is renowned for its environment-friendly characteristics
in European countries with strict noise and emission regulations – it is an
important component of the fleets of Wideroe (Norway), Lufthansa (Germany)
and flybe (UK).
Flight operations at city centre airports throughout the world are changing.
Airports like London City demonstrate an increased focus on quiet, low-emission,
fuel-efficient aircraft that offer competitive airline services while operating
in a manner respectful of the surrounding community.
Porter Q400 Seat Map:
