Global 7000

Bombardier has postponed the commercial debut of its Global 7000 business jet to the second half of 2018, from the original entry-into-service plan for next year, to accelerate its CSeries programme.

The Canadian aircraft maker is facing cost overruns, and mounting debts from the development of its CSeries aircraft.

CSeries and the Global family programmes have forced Bombardier to raise around $3bn in debt and equity for adequate financing.

Global 7000 is designed to be one of the longest-range business jets, and will have a range of 7,300nm. It can accommodate 17 passengers.

Bombardier CEO Alain Bellemare was quoted by Bloomberg as saying: "Creating an aircraft of this unique caliber with no compromise in terms of performance and comfort is challenging."

"Creating an aircraft of this unique caliber with no compromise in terms of performance and comfort is challenging."

Following the aircraft’s entry into service, Bombardier expects the Global 7000 and 8000 aeroplanes to contribute up to $3bn in annual sales.

Earlier this year, the company confirmed plans to scale-down production of Global 5000 and Global 6000 business jets, placing around 1,750 jobs at risk.

Geopolitical issues in regions such as Latin America, China and Russia, have contributed to the Global 5000 and 6000 production cut.

In January, the Canadian firm halted its Learjet 85 business aircraft development programme.

For the second quarter ending on 30 June, Bombardier recorded a 2% increase in revenues to $4.6bn, compared with last year, and earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) was $226m. Net income totalled $125m.

Image: An impression of a Bombardier Global 7000 aircraft. Photo: courtesy of Bombardier.