Bombardier Aerospace is intending to form a joint venture with ExecuJet Aviation Group to enhance customer support services in the Middle East, by building an aircraft facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The facility located at Dubai International Airport, will feature a total volume of 28,000 square feet to support up to four aircraft simultaneously.

It is expected to be operational in the summer of 2001 and will house all maintenance operations.

A business aircraft spares depot will be co-located with the facility.

According to Bombardier, the facility will offer maintenance and support standards equivalent to

its network of authorised service facilities.

Rob Gillespie, president of Bombardier Aerospace, Business Aircraft said: “Although the Middle East is home to more than 250 business aircraft, including many wide body jets, the development of a support infrastructure has not kept pace.

As a result, operators based in the region have not been able to count on the same degree of aircraft availability and maintainability as North American and European operators.”

“By teaming with ExecuJet,” Gillespie continued, “we have allied the full product line capability of Bombardier Aerospace with a top flight provider of aircraft management, flight operations and maintenance services.

“This new endeavour will enhance turnaround times on aircraft service and maintenance, and provide charter, sales and management for Bombardier business aircraft customers in this region.”

Niall Olver, managing director of ExecuJet commented: “This will be the first such facility launched by a major aircraft manufacturer in this region.” \r

The descision to do so reflects both the region’s growing importance and Bambrdier’s commitment to doing more to help its Middle East customers achieve more.