Four USAF Global Jets Cross 100K Flight-hour Milestone

Four Bombardier Global jets in special-mission configuration for the U.S. Air Force have collectively flown 100,000 hours, the Canadian airframer announced yesterday. Part of the Air Force’s Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program, the jets extend communication ranges, bridge radio frequencies, and translate incompatible communications systems.

The aircraft—a Global Express, two Global Express XRSs and a Global 6000—have regularly flown more than 18 hours a day for months at a time over the course of their missions. Designated by the Air Force as E-11A, the aircraft were developed and modified by Bombardier Specialized Aircraft in Wichita.

“We are extremely proud of the outstanding reliability and performance of the Global aircraft platform as part of this elite assignment,” said Bombardier Specialized Aircraft v-p Steve Patrick. “This 100,000-flight-hour milestone is a testament to the aircraft's’ performance and endurance, clearly demonstrating that the Global platform excels in demanding situations.”

There are more than 500 specialized Bombardier aircraft in service, the company said.