Bombardier Deal Welcomed

The Alliance Party has welcomed the announcement that Bombardier has secured a major order for its C Series aircraft from Delta Airlines.

The American airline has agreed to purchase 75 CS100 aircraft with an option for 50 more. The C Series wings and other parts are produced in Belfast.

East Belfast Alliance Assembly candidate Chris Lyttle said the confirmation of the biggest order in Bombardier commercial aircraft history is a "ringing endorsement of workers in Belfast".

He said: "This news will hopefully provide a much-needed boost for Bombardier workers in Belfast, particularly coming so soon after the news the company planned on cutting jobs over the next two years," he said.

"It is a ringing endorsement for workers in Belfast, where much of the C Series is produced, and helps sustain Bombardier's future here. I hope it ensures the company can build and help create more jobs.

"Bombardier is one of Northern Ireland's most successful companies and this order proves that even in the face of a challenging economic situation, we have the world-class skills to attract investment here."

Alastair Hamilton from Invest NI said: "This significant order valued at US$5.6 billion, is the largest in Bombardier Commercial Aircraft history and makes Delta the CSeries aircraft’s largest customer. As the first 100% new aircraft developed in over 30 years, this agreement is an important milestone for the CSeries programme which has significant economic importance to Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is a global leader in aerospace technology and Invest NI continues to work closely with the local supply base to enhance its competitiveness and support its continued growth."

(CD/LM)