The adjunct professor in Polytechnique's Department of Mechanical Engineering was asked to comment on the aircraft as a university expert a few minutes before its inaugural flight. He provided very positive comments about the aircraft's impressive and quiet performance at take-off and landing. 

Very familiar with industry issues, Professor Laurendeau worked for some 10 years in research and development with Bombardier before making the leap into university research and joining the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal.

“For me, it was a great honour to take part in this historic event, broadcast live across the world. An incredible example of a concrete, ambitious project for the new generation of engineers!” said Professor Laurendeau.

The FTV1 CSeries reached an altitude of 12,500 feet (3,810 metres) and an aerodynamic speed of 230 knots (426 km/h). The flight marks the start of the CSeries aircraft flight-test program, which will lead to the first client delivery. The flight was also the first one for the new Geared Turbofan^TM PurePower® engine by Pratt & Whitney as part of an aircraft certification program.

To date, Bombardier has orders and commitments for 388 CSeries aircraft, including 177 firm orders. Some 15 clients and leasing companies have joined the CSeries aircraft program.

See also:
Professor Laurendeau's expertise
Videos and photos on the CSeries website
Rebroadcast of the event with Professor Laurendeau

Photo: Bombardier