Iraqi Airways

Iraqi Airways has signed a firm purchase agreement with Bombardier Aerospace to buy five CS300 mainline aircraft.

The agreement also includes options on 11 CS300 jets, and follows a letter of intent (LoI) to purchase the aircraft that was announced by the aircraft manufacturer during the Dubai Airshow.

Based on the list prices, the firm order is valued at about $387m, and could increase to $1.26bn if the 11 options are converted to firm orders.

Iraqi Airways chief executive officer and director general Saad Al-Khafaji said: "The CS300 aircraft’s range, fuel efficiency and comfortable, widebody-like cabin will permit us to respond to growing passenger demand and reach destinations across the Middle East, North Africa and Europe."

The CSeries aircraft family, designed for 100 to 149-seat market, combines advanced materials and latest technology to comply with commercial airline requirements.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1500G engines, the CSeries aircraft offer a 15% cash operating cost advantage and a 20% fuel burn reduction.

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft president Mike Arcamone said: "We are delighted to be participating in Iraq’s reconstruction by delivering the best aircraft to support Iraqi Airways’ growth and development."

Bombardier has secured orders and commitments for 419 CSeries aircraft to date, which include firm orders for 182 CSeries jets.

Image: Bombardier CS300 aircraft in the livery of Iraqi Airways. Photo: courtesy of Bombardier.

Defence Technology