GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) has leased three new Q400 aircraft to Air Berlin. The Q400 aircraft, part of GECAS’ order book of five announced on December 31, 2014, will increase the Air Berlin Q400 aircraft fleet to 20.

“The Bombardier Q400 turboprop is a perfect choice for our regional routes,” said Stefan Pichler, CEO of Air Berlin. “It has replaced jets on thin routes that don’t require the capacity of larger jets; it allows us to increase frequencies on some routes at less cost than a jet; it flies point-to-point between smaller city pairs; and it feeds our major hubs. It does all of these things economically, reliably and with the environmental sensitivity that is vital in Europe.”

“The demand for economical turboprops continues to expand and we are pleased to enter into this new lease with Air Berlin,” said Alec Burger, president and CEO of GECAS. “Air Berlin recognizes the many qualities the Q400 aircraft offers in terms of operating efficiencies, performance and economics.”

“Air Berlin’s operations illustrate the capabilities and qualities of the Q400 aircraft that make it uniquely suitable for diverse operations, and a valuable asset in the portfolio of aircraft leasing companies,” said Fred Cromer, president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “We are confident that leasing companies and Q400 turboprop operators will find many more opportunities to work together for their mutual benefit.”

The Q400 aircraft is the most recent development in the Q Series family of aircraft. In addition to the standard single-class configuration, Q400 aircraft are available with an optional dual-class interior, an optional extra-capacity configuration with up to 86 seats for high-density markets and in a combi configuration.