Abu Dhabi Aviation, a leading commercial helicopter operator in the Middle East, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for two Q400 NextGen aircraft from Bombardier Aerospace worth $70 million based on list price.

Abu Dhabi Aviation operates a fleet that includes one Q400 aircraft, one Dash 8/Q300 aircraft and two Dash 8/Q200 turboprops. Its main activities relate to the support of offshore oil, engineering and construction companies.

The airline is a longtime Bombardier Q-Series aircraft customer, said a top official.

“Our operation of Bombardier commercial aircraft spans over 20 years and the acquisition of the Q400 NextGen turboprop, with its exceptional performance and superior payload capability in our challenging operating environment, will allow us to serve our customers effectively,” remarked Nadir Al Hammadi, the chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation.

“Abu Dhabi Aviation’s long-term operation of Dash 8/Q-Series turboprops showcases the robust characteristics of these aircraft, and is a testament to their suitability for service in the world’s most demanding climatic conditions,” said Mike Arcamone, the president, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.

“The Q400 NextGen aircraft in particular, is very well positioned against its closest competitor, affording operators significant economic advantages, flexibility and operational efficiencies,” he stated.

Bombardier’s presence in the Middle East and Africa currently includes more than 200 Dash 8/Q-Series turboprops, CRJ regional jets and CSeries single-aisle; mainline aircraft in service or on firm order.-TradeArabia News Service