Bombardier to play a leading role in Nigerian regional aviation	June 2006

Bombardier Regional Aircraft expects to play a leading role in the modernization of regional aviation in Nigeria, beginning when Arik Air starts service with two new Bombardier CRJ900 regional jets in the summer of 2006. The 75-seat CRJ900 aircraft are the first new jet transports to be imported into the country in almost 20 years.

The two jetliners were the subject of a gala celebration at the Bombardier Aerospace CRJ700/CRJ900 manufacturing facility at Mirabel, Quebec on June 14, 2006. Executives of Arik Air, the Nigerian Minister of Transport and other guests were welcomed by Pierre Beaudoin, President and Chief Operating Officer of Bombardier Aerospace and Steven Ridolfi, President of Bombardier Regional Aircraft.

The two CRJ900 jetliners are named "Anthony" and "Patrick" after the Catholic Bishop of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Okogie and Benin Dioscese Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu. Dr. Ekpu blessed the aircraft during the ceremony.

In addition to its new Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft, Arik Air will begin operations with three pre-owned Bombardier CRJ200 and two pre-owned Boeing 737 jets.