The Gulf Emirate of Bahrain has ordered a VIP-configured BAE Systems Avro RJ85 for delivery before the end of September.
BAE revealed the sale last month, but did not identify the customer (Flight International, 29 May - 4 June). The aircraft is one of five Avro RJs remaining to be placed before manufacturing is switched to the new Honeywell AS900-powered RJX variant. It is understood that the aircraft will be configured as a communications and VIP transport aircraft.
The RJ85 is expected to be registered to the Bahrain Amiri Flight, although operations will be in the hands of the air force. Aircraft will be flown by military personnel. This arrangement should facilitate operations outside the area of the Gulf Co-operation Council.
The Bahrain Amiri Flight operates a four-aircraft fleet of two airliners - a Boeing 727-200 Adv and a 747SP - and two Gulfstream business jets - a GII and GIV.
BAE, negotiating placement of the last two RJ85s and two RJ100s, is in talks with several BAe 146 and Avro RJ operators.
Source: Flight International