China Express Airlines (G5) has converted a previously announced conditional order for six CRJ900 NextGen regional jets to a firm order, plus five options.

According to a statement released by Bombardier, the previously announced order (ATW Daily News, Feb. 10) is valued at approximately $264 million and could increase to approximately $491 million if the five options are converted to firm orders.
The Guiyang-based carrier operates five CRJ200 regional jets. The airline will be the first to launch CRJ900 aircraft service in China.

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft VP-sales for China and North Asia Andy Solem said, “In our Market Forecast for 2012 to 2031 that was released on June 19 this year, Bombardier predicts a demand for approximately 2,200 commercial aircraft in the 60- to 149-seat segment in China. (ATW Daily News, June 20). "We are working closely with local airlines, suppliers and stakeholders to assist in fleet and infrastructure expansion to support the development of China's fleet of commercial aircraft as it grows to become the world's second largest market for new aircraft deliveries, following closely behind the United States."