Fuselage Test Barrel for Bombardier CSeries Aircraft Arrives

* A series of wind tunnel testing of CS100 and CS300 aircraft configurations completed

The first test article, a fuselage test barrel, for the new CSeries single-aisle aircraft, has been delivered to Bombardier’s Saint-Laurent, Québec facility. The test barrel is representative of the main fuselage section of the upcoming CSeries aircraft. Its production and testing will demonstrate the manufacturing and engineering structural concepts before the aircraft’s final design phase begins in 2010. The CSeries aircraft’s entry into service is scheduled for 2013.

The test barrel, which measures approximately 23 feet (7 m) long and has a maximum diameter of approximately 12 feet (3.7 m), is made of advanced aluminum alloys. These materials have been selected to provide weight and maintenance advantages for CSeries jetliner operators.

Built by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, a unit of China Aviation Industry, the test barrel left Dalian, China on July 20, 2009, traveled across the Pacific and then 2,500 miles from California to Québec.

Just over 10 per cent of the CSeries aircraft will be manufactured in China by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. Shenyang also supplies the empennage, as well as the aft and forward fuselage sections for Bombardier’s high-speed Q400 turboprop airliner.

“The test barrel for the CSeries aircraft arrived on schedule, and meets the quality standards equivalent to a final production unit. This achievement underscores the strength of our partnership with Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and China Aviation industry,” said Robert Dewar, Vice President, Integrated Product Development Team, CSeries Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “This partnership is an integral part of our commitment to building a long-term investment and strategic industrial relationship with China.”

Another recent achievement for the CSeries aircraft program included the completion of a series of wind tunnel tests covering high speed, low speed and high lift. These tests were carried out at various facilities including, ONERA F1 (France, Toulouse), ETW (Cologne, Germany) and ARA (Bedford, UK). The tests were completed on schedule and have confirmed CSeries aircraft overall performance benefits.

Bombardier’s competitive 110-seat and 130-seat CSeries aircraft will benefit from the latest technological advancements, including: fourth generation aerodynamics; increased use of composites and advanced aluminium alloys in structures; a next-generation engine – the Pratt & Whitney PurePowerTM PW1000G engine; and the very latest in system technologies, such as fly-by-wire and electric brakes. Designed specifically for comfort, the CSeries airliners will set new standards in fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.