CAN THE "SUPERJET" RESCUE REGIONAL FLIGHTS?

Relax News
Friday, 29 January 2010

The Russian Superjet could be delivered by summer 2010

Sukhoi

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A new Russian-designed jet could be delivered as early as mid-2010,
according to reports from Moscow, providing a boost to struggling
regional services.

The Sukhoi "Superjet," a short-range regional jet capable of seating
75 to 95 people, expects to receive its airworthiness certificate this
summer, Russia’s Industry Minister reportedly told parliament. Once
this certification is received, delivery can begin – 122 aircraft
are currently due to be delivered, around half to Russia and half to
customers in Italy, Spain, Armenia, Hungary and Switzerland.

The Superjet made its international debut at the last year’s Paris
Air Show, generating considerable interest. Sukhoi claims that it is
10 percent more fuel efficient than comparable aircraft and is more
comfortable, offering "jumbo jet comfort." It will put the Russian
manufacturer in direct competition with small jet manufacturers
Embraer and Bombadier, and to a lesser extent, industry giants such
as the 109-seat Airbus A318 and the 123-seat Boeing 737-600.

China’s Comac is also working on a regional jet with similar
specifications, the first commercial airliner produced by China. The
ARJ21 will seat between 70 and 100 passengers and is also due for
delivery this year.

Regional carriers that serve commuter passengers (or those connecting
for intercontinental flights at major hubs) hope that these new
aircraft can provide a much-needed boost to the industry. Mike Ambrose,
the Director General of the European Regions Airlines Association,
labeled 2009 the year of "aviation’s economic tsunami" in October
last year.

With short flights facing competition from high-speed rail links
and high fuel costs, many are questioning the viability of flying
short distances. In 2001, Air France cancelled its Paris to Brussels
flights in favor of booking passengers onto the Thalys high speed train
service. More recently in Italy, Alitalia has faced tough competition
from high speed rail – particularly on its lucrative Milan-Rome route –
incurring serious losses in 2009.

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