Airbus A220-100's First Transatlantic Flight Marks Milestone in 2015
Bombardier's CS100, now known as the Airbus A220-100, made headlines as the first aircraft of its new family to achieve international recognition. In 2017, it was expected to receive Transport Canada and EASA steep approach certifications in the second quarter.
The CS100's first transatlantic non-stop flight took place in September 2015, a significant milestone in its testing phase. The flight, conducted without passengers, lasted approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes, covering the distance from Montreal to London Gatwick. These tests are crucial for assessing an aircraft's long-range capabilities, navigation systems, and fuel efficiency. Following this, the CS100 successfully demonstrated its capabilities during a two-day period at London City Airport (LCY), performing all planned take-offs and landings. Once certified, SWISS was set to operate the route. The CS100 is designed for the 100- to 150-seat, single-aisle market and was specifically claimed to be the only economically viable commercial option for direct intercontinental flights between LCY and JFK. It first entered service with SWISS in July 2016, operating a route from Zurich to Paris Charles de Gaulle. Notably, the Bombardier CS100 aircraft completed its first non-stop transatlantic flight from LCY to JFK in 2016.
The CS100, now the Airbus A220-100, has proven its capabilities and efficiency through various tests, including its first transatlantic non-stop flight. With its certification, it opened up new direct routes, such as the one operated by SWISS between LCY and JFK.
