Aircraft

Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC) has completed delivery of the first CSeries test article--a fuselage test barrel--to Bombardier for the launch of tests to demonstrate manufacturing and engineering concepts before the programme's final design phase starts next year.

The test barrel departed Dalian, China on 20 July, travelling across the pacific and then 2,500 miles from California to Bombardier's Saint-Laurent, Quebec facility.

Bombardier explains the barrel measures 7m (23ft) and has a maximum diameter of 3.7m (12ft). It features aluminium alloys, which will result in weight and maintenance advantages for CSeries operators.

"This achievement underscores the strength of our partnership with Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and China Aviation Industry," says Bombardier VP, Integrated Product Development Team, CSeries Aircraft Programme Robert Dewar.

The relationship between Bombardier and SAC continues to expand. The airframer has awarded SAC production of the mid-fuselage for the Q400 turboprop and the wing-to-fuselage wingbox for the CSeries. SAC expects to deliver the first Q400 mid-fuselage at the end of November.

Bombardier, meanwhile, also recently completed a series of wind tunnel tests for 110-seat, 130-seat CSeries programme covering high speed, low speed and high lift. The manufacturer carried out the testing in Toulouse, France, Cologne, Germany and Bedford, UK.

"The tests were completed on schedule and have confirmed CSeries aircraft overall performance benefits," Bombardier says.