Bombardier's biggest sale sustains jobs

A multi-billion dollar business jet order - the largest in Bombardier's history - will help secure jobs at its Belfast base.

The company announced it has sold 100 of its Challenger aircraft to NetJets Inc. for an estimated $2.6bn US.

It said the buyer also has options to buy a further 175 jets which would see the total value climb to approximately $7.3bn US.

Bombardier employs 5,000 workers in Northern Ireland.

A statement from the company said the new order will secure local jobs.

"The announcement of this NetJets order - the largest business aircraft sale in Bombardier's history - is very welcome and is a huge vote of confidence in Bombardier, our employees and the Challenger aircraft family," it said.

"Bombardier in Belfast is responsible for the design and manufacture of the centre fuselage and engine nacelles for the Challenger 605 aircraft, and the centre fuselage for the Challenger 300 business jet.

"The order will help to sustain jobs in our Northern Ireland operations."

The aircraft will go into operation around Europe and North America.

Jordan Hansell from NetJets Inc. said: "We are very impressed with Bombardier's overall product portfolio.

"The Challenger 300 Series and Challenger 605 Series jets will be an excellent complement to our existing mid cabin capabilities and overall fleet that are unmatched in private aviation.

"We are particularly appreciative that Bombardier has been responsive to our needs in bringing a NetJets configuration for our owners."

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster welcomed the announcement, which she said is a "significant boost to the local economy".

"Bombardier's agreement with NetJet is a tremendous endorsement of the technological expertise and capability available in Northern Ireland and signals the continued success of this multinational corporation," she added.