Bombardier Commercial Aircraft announced that Petroleum Air Services of Cairo, Egypt has signed a firm purchase agreement to acquire a CRJ900 NextGen regional jet.
The order is a conversion of a purchase option that PAS acquired in 2011 with its first firm-ordered CRJ900 NextGen aircraft.
Bombardier also confirmed that it has strong representation at the African Airlines Association (“AFRAA”) Annual General Assembly being held in Algiers this week. During the gathering, leaders of African and Middle Eastern airlines have gathered alongside aircraft manufacturers, suppliers and association representatives to discuss industry matters and business.
“When we purchased our first CRJ900 NextGen aircraft we were seeking a proven jet aircraft to enhance services to our customers and for our tourism destinations,” said General Yehia Hussein, Chairman and Managing Director, Petroleum Air Services. “The CRJ900 NextGen aircraft has delivered exactly what we were seeking and is performing very well in the harsh environmental conditions that are typical in the African environment. It is also delivering outstanding fuel efficiency and reliability, so we are purchasing another to further expand our operations.”
“We were delighted when Petroleum Air Services selected the CRJ900 NextGen regional jet in 2011 since the company is well respected in the region and has a rigorous aircraft evaluation process,” said John Kassis, Regional Vice President, Sales, Middle East and Africa, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “PAS has done a most commendable job of introducing theCRJ900 NextGen aircraft to Egypt, and the company’s acquisition of another is an excellent testimonial to the aircraft’s performance attributes and suitability for the region.”
PAS provides support services to the petroleum industry and also operates commercial passenger services within Egypt and to regional cities. The company, which is based at Cairo International Airport, was established in 1983 and its current fleet includes one de Havilland Dash 7 aircraft, five Bombardier Q300 turboprops and one CRJ900 NextGen aircraft. PAS also has extensive helicopter operations.