Bombardier gets the Royal Treatment	July 30, 2002

This past summer, the Downsview plant of Bombardier Aerospace was graced with royalty. His Majesty King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV and Her Majesty Queen Halaevalu Mata'aho of Tonga made a special visit to meet Bombardier executives and tour the site.

Accompanied by an entourage of 11, including William Cocker of Royal Tongan Airlines, as well as Canadian government officials, the monarchs spent the day touring the facility where the Q Series turboprops are made. Walt Galloway, Vice President, Asia/Pacific Sales, Bombardier Regional Aircraft was very proud to be escorting the royal delegation.

The beautiful South Pacific nation of Tonga is one of the world's few remaining constitutional monarchies, and the only South Pacific country to never have been colonized by a foreign power. HM King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV has been the reigning head of state since 1965 to the kingdom of approximately 100,000 people.

Tonga consists of 170 islands, 36 of which are inhabited. Royal Tonga Airlines is owned by the government but is run on commercial lines. They presently own two de Havilland Twin Otter aircraft for use on regional routes.

Bombardier would like to thank the King and Queen for their special visit to Downsview and the opportunity to host such a regal event.