BAE Systems is targeting Russia for the first time in a bid to sell a batch of Avro RJ85s coming off lease from Lufthansa.
The aircraft are priced at $5-6 million each, and BAE believes they offer a good alternative for Russian airlines that rely on ageing fleets of Tupolev Tu-134s and Yakovlev Yak-42s for their regional jet requirements.
"We have in the past talked to Russian airlines about the type, but this is the first time we've made a concerted effort in the market," says BAE.
BAE is looking to sell 11 93-seat RJ85s of a 1994-5 vintage coming off lease from Lufthansa over the next 12 months.
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The RJ85, unlike its predecessor the BAe 146, is certificated with Russia's Interstate Aviation Committee following delivery of three aircraft to Uzbekistan Airways in 1997. The regional jets would be subject to Russian import tariffs, but these would be lower than those applying to newer equipment.
BAE is willing to sell the RJ85s singly or as a fleet, but it is not contemplating leasing the aircraft.
Source: Flight International
