New Delhi Sep 29 (IANS) Budget passenger carrier SpiceJet on Friday said that it has concluded a firm purchase agreement with Bombardier Commercial Aircraft for up to 50 Q400 turbo-prop aircraft.
According to SpiceJet the new order is the single largest ever for the Q400 turbo-prop aircraft programme.
The company disclosed that the purchase agreement includes 25 Q400 turbo-props and purchase rights on an additional 25 aircraft. Based on list prices the order is valued at up to $1.7 billion.
"I am pleased to confirm SpiceJet s latest order for up to 50 Bombardier Q400 planes that was announced in the Paris Airshow " said SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh.
"I am sure this fresh order will further enhance connectivity to smaller towns and cities and help realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi s vision of ensuring that every Indian can fly."
Upon delivery the airline will also become the first in the world to operate a 90-seat turbo-prop pending certification by regulatory authorities.
Since 2010 SpiceJet has taken delivery of 15 Q400 aircraft. The airline currently operates 20 Q400 aircraft in a 78-seat configuration to domestic and international destinations.
In addition to the current order the airline had earlier this year placed an order for up to 225 narrow and wide-body jets with Boeing.
--IANS
rv/vm
