The Bombardier Challenger 604 and Learjet 60 have both made inroads into the Central and South American markets. Both are here at FIDAE for the first time.

Bombardier has sold two top-of-the-line $48 million Global Express business jets in Central and South America in the last year, and hopes to sign contracts for two or three more in 2002.

That's the goal of new regional vp Jahid Fazal-Karim, whose recent appointment marks a greatly increased focus on the area. The company is here at FIDAE with its demonstrator Learjet 60 and Challenger 604 aircraft, and a used Learjet 31A.

Fazal-Karim believes that while there is room for top end jets the most popular in Central and South America will be those between $25-$30 million, ranging from the big Learjet 60 through the widebody Challenger to the new Global 5000. "I have a lot of hopes for the Challenger, and I am very enthusiastic too about the Global 5000," he said. "This new business jet really matches what so many customers here want to do."

Bombardier is also emphasizing the availability of used business jets as a way to upgrade from older aircraft. "We've hired a used aircraft sales director," he said.

The company had been absent from FIDAE for several years, and Fazal-Karim wants its return to send a signal loud and clear: that Bombardier sees potential in the region and plans to be a player in it for the long haul.