Aviation News Item: 00933

20th Oct 2009

Source: fly-corporate.com

Since last year's introduction at the National Business Aircraft Association (NBAA) Annual Meeting & Convention, the Dornier Seaplane Company has continued to build momentum in production, sales and product configuration definition.

The Company has narrowed down the final assembly site selection to St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, a southern suburb of Montreal, or North Bay, Ontario. Winter flight operations will be based in Punta Gorda, Florida.

After an extensive analysis of numerous sites in North America and subject to final governmental reviews, Dornier selected these two cities based on the availability of the local talent pool; the low cost of real estate and infrastructure; the strong local aviation supply chain, including Pratt & Whitney which produces the Seastar engines; and the proximity of nearby lakes with their uncongested airspace for flight test activity. The final site decision will be made in 90 days.

Joe Walker, Chief Executive Officer of the Dornier Seaplane Company, said "Momentum in the company is building rapidly. In addition to finalising the site selection, the Company is in detailed discussions with our major suppliers. The supplier selection process will be completed over the next 12 months and deliveries will begin in 24 months."

Furthermore, he continued, "We are gratified by the depth and breadth of market interest in the Dornier Seastar. Inquiries have been received from over 132 countries and our website is averaging over 125 hits per day. This world-wide market demand has generated a backlog in excess of 25 Letters of Intent that we are currently maturing into firm contracts."

The FAA and EASA certified demonstrator Seastar aircraft has been upgraded to a 10-seat luxury interior with a new exterior paint scheme. It is on static display at the Orlando Executive Airport during this year's NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention.

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