4.22.2008 - 05:32pm ET

(CSRwire) SEATTLE, WASHINGTON -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 04/22/08 -- Bombardier's popular Q400 turboprop is emerging as a top performer when it comes to reducing the environmental impact of aircraft.

Representatives from Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and Horizon Air chose today, Earth Day, to reiterate the 78-seat Q400 aircraft produces 30 percent less emissions, can be more fuel efficient than an average car (when calculated on a per passenger basis) and, both inside and out, is one of the quietest aircraft in the world.

Recent sales growth of the Q400 aircraft point to the aircraft's popularity among airlines seeking not only to reduce environmental impact but to realize economic benefits, particularly around fuel efficiency.

During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2008, Bombardier Aerospace took orders for 80 Q400 airliners compared to 24 orders in the previous year. Sales of turboprops in general have risen along the same upward curve of jet fuel prices since earlier this decade.

Horizon Air

Horizon Air, which has purchased 33 Q400 aircraft with another 15 on order and 20 options, is one of several carriers around the world to promote the reduced environmental footprint of its fleet. The Seattle-based airline goes even further by touting the convenience and low-stress benefits of air travel versus automobile travel between Seattle and Portland, its most heavily traveled route.

"The Q400 turboprop not only saves us money, but allows us to reduce our carbon footprint while shuttling customers between Seattle and Portland, and on other routes quickly and comfortably," said Dan Russo, Director Marketing and Communications, Horizon Air.

"In terms of economics, environment and profitability, our Q400 aircraft sales are increasing dramatically as the industry moves forward on the path of sustainability," said Rod Williams, Vice-President, Commercial Operations, Bombardier Regional Aircraft.

Noise Levels

Bombardier's engineers have focused their efforts on both the internal and external environment. The Q400 aircraft features a revolutionary Active Noise and Vibration Suppression (ANVS) system that reduces the vibrations in the fuselage, stopping much of the noise and vibration from entering the cabin.

The low noise levels should be no surprise; after all, the "Q" in the
Q400 stands for quiet.

As one of the quietest commercial aircraft in existence, the Q400 aircraft is able to operate in noise-sensitive areas such as the
island airport in Toronto and London's city airport.

Emissions

The Q400 aircraft exceeds not only current environment standards but also anticipated ones, with respect to carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrocarbon, nitrous oxide and smoke emissions. All are well below the levels mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

For example, on a 500-nm or 575.4-mile trip, the Q400 aircraft emits 30 percent fewer emissions and rates among the lowest CO2 emitting aircraft on a per seat basis. Looked at another way, each Q400 aircraft produces 3,000 fewer tons of CO2 every year.

Q400 NextGen Aircraft

The new Q400 NextGen turboprop airliner is the next step in the continuing evolution of the Q400 aircraft. Revised in the same spirit as the CRJ NextGen aircraft family, the Q400 NextGen aircraft remains one of the most technologically advanced turboprop aircraft. As with the CRJ NextGen aircraft family, the overall cabin environment of the Q400 NextGen aircraft will be enhanced with the introduction of LED lighting, new ceiling panels, dished window sidewalls and larger overhead bins. Combining these features with the Active Noise and Vibration Suppression (ANVS) system will give the Q400 NextGen passenger an even more pleasant cabin experience.

About Bombardier

A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2008, were $17.5 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

ANVS, Bombardier, NextGen and Q400 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc.
or its subsidiaries.

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