Bombardier is one of Canada’s most significant contributions to global aviation. Originally founded in 1942 by Joseph-Armand Bombardier as a manufacturer of snowmobiles, the company evolved over the decades into a major aerospace and transportation powerhouse. Bombardier’s aircraft have become known for efficiency, reliability, and strong performance in regional and business aviation markets.
A Brief History
Bombardier entered aviation in the 1980s through a series of strategic acquisitions, including Canadair, de Havilland Canada, Learjet, and Short Brothers. These moves transformed Bombardier into a global aircraft manufacturer with a diverse portfolio spanning regional airliners and business jets.
Over time, Bombardier developed several iconic aircraft families:
- CRJ Series – The world’s most successful regional jet family.
- Dash 8 / Q Series – Advanced turboprops known for short‑field performance.
- Learjet – Legendary business jets with a strong heritage.
- Challenger – Mid‑size business jets with wide cabins and long range.
- Global Series – Ultra‑long‑range business jets competing with Gulfstream.
- CSeries (now Airbus A220) – A revolutionary narrowbody design later acquired by Airbus.
In 2020, Bombardier exited commercial aviation entirely, focusing solely on business jets. Today, Bombardier remains a major force in the business aviation sector, producing the Challenger and Global families from its facilities in Montreal and Toronto.
Bombardier Aircraft Families
CRJ Series
The Bombardier CRJ (Canadair Regional Jet) family revolutionised regional air travel. First introduced in the early 1990s, the CRJ series grew into multiple variants including the CRJ100/200, CRJ700, CRJ900, and the stretched CRJ1000. Known for efficiency and reliability, the CRJ became one of the most widely used regional jets worldwide.
Garuda Indonesia Bombardier CRJ‑1000, registration PK‑GRM, shown from
a forward angle highlighting the aircraft’s sleek nose profile and the stretched fuselage unique to the CRJ‑1000 variant.
Dash 8 / Q Series
The Dash 8 family, later branded as the Q Series, became one of the most successful turboprops in aviation. Its excellent short‑field performance and fuel efficiency made it ideal for regional routes across challenging terrain. Production was later transferred to De Havilland Canada.
Air New Zealand Bombardier Dash 8 Q300, registration ZK‑NFI, shown in the airline’s distinctive black‑and‑white livery. The Q300 is a key part
of Air New Zealand’s regional fleet, well suited to short‑haul routes across New Zealand’s varied terrain.
CSeries (Airbus A220)
The Bombardier CSeries was a groundbreaking narrowbody aircraft designed with advanced aerodynamics, composite materials, and highly efficient Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engines. In 2018, Airbus acquired the programme, rebranding it as the Airbus A220. Despite the transfer, the CSeries remains one of Bombardier’s most significant engineering achievements.
Air Canada Airbus A220‑300, registration C‑GROV, originally developed by Bombardier as the
CSeries. The A220’s advanced aerodynamics and efficient geared turbofan engines make it one of the most
modern and fuel‑efficient narrowbody aircraft in service today.
Business Jets
Bombardier’s business jet lineup includes the Learjet (now discontinued), Challenger, and Global families. These aircraft are widely used by corporations, governments, and private operators worldwide.
- Learjet – Iconic light business jets known for speed and agility.
- Challenger – Spacious, comfortable mid‑size jets with strong range.
- Global – Ultra‑long‑range jets capable of intercontinental travel.
Bombardier Today
Bombardier now focuses exclusively on business aviation, continuing to innovate with the Challenger 3500 and Global 7500/8000 families. The company remains headquartered in Montreal, with major production facilities in Quebec and Ontario.
Legacy
Bombardier’s legacy in aviation is defined by innovation, adaptability, and a diverse portfolio that shaped regional and business travel for decades. From the CRJ series that transformed regional connectivity to the CSeries that redefined narrowbody efficiency, Bombardier’s influence continues to be felt across the industry.
