Bombardier has launched the new CRJ550, becoming the first and only regional jet that sports 50 seats in a three-class arrangement.

The CRJ550 is part of the CRJ Series by Bombardier and is developed as a variant of the CRJ700. Although it will share a type certificate with the CRJ700, the CRJ550 has a lower maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) to be technically classified as a 50-seat regional jet.

The new aircraft is targeted at the aging 50-seat regional jet fleet, which has nearly 700 aircraft in service. With aircraft manufacturers beginning to move to larger aircraft, there has been no new small regional jet in development for the past decade. The CRJ550 takes the CRJ700 platform and brings a 50-seat platform to airlines. Against the aircraft it will replace, the CRJ550 brings even more space to the cabin with an additional length of 18 feet.

United Airlines is the launch customer for the Bombardier CRJ550 with an order of 50 aircraft. Deliveries are expected to be made later in 2019. GoJet Airlines has been selected to operate flights on the CRJ550 for United. GoJet currently flies United’s CRJ700 aircraft.

As for the passenger, Bombardier advertises a variety of improvements. The aircraft will feature a self-serve beverage and snack station for flyers to enjoy. There will also be more storage on-board for carry-on luggage. Most importantly, there is the promise of having even better legroom than other 50-seat regional jets.

United has opted for the three-class arrangement of 10 United First^®, 20 United Economy Plus^®, and 20 United Economy^® seats. The beverage and snack station is for United First^® to enjoy while all passengers can enjoy WiFi service on the aircraft.

Expect to see the CRJ550 operate routes out of Chicago soon.