Bombardier Aerospace has revealed the latest development in the Continental business jet programme. The first major subassembly for the first aircraft - the forward fuselage - has been delivered by Canadair to Learjet for final assembly in Wichita.

Said Rob Gillespie, president Bombardier Aerospace Business Aircraft: "The Continental business jet is developing at a rapid pace, final assembly is on schedule and we should be able to see a completed aircraft soon."Bombardier says the Continental assembly facility in Wichita is on schedule to become fully operational in September, with assembly of the first aircraft. Initial component deliveries from risk-sharing partners are expected to begin soon.