Yemisi Izuora
The Bombardier Global 8000 fleet continues to spread its reach with the first African delivery of the ultra-long-range twinjet now completed. The Mach 0.95 airplane was handed over to BUA Group, a multinational company based in Nigeria that has interests in cement, food, oil and gas, energy, infrastructure, ports and terminals, and real estate.
Bombardier president and CEO Éric Martel called the delivery a milestone for both organizations, building on a relationship that has grown over the years. “The Global 8000 represents the third new Bombardier aircraft delivered to BUA Group, underscoring the group’s continued confidence in Bombardier’s products, people, and global support network,” added Bombardier regional v-p Hani Haddadin.
BUA will use its 8,000-nm jet for its long-range travel requirements. Bombardier noted that this range capability will enable nonstop connections from Lagos to destinations such as Los Angeles, Perth, and Tokyo.
“The Global 8000 offers the range, speed, comfort, and reliability required to support our international business activities,” said BUA Group founder and chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu. “For a group with international operations and commitments, the ability to reach more destinations nonstop while maintaining comfort and productivity on board is an important advantage.”