By Rebecca Rayko,
AWN Editor

SAN ANTONIO, Texas - Although Bombardier was noticeably quiet at this year's RAA Convention, canceling its only major press conference, engine maker GE Aircraft Engines confirmed some news on Bombardier's latest regional jet program.

As expected, GE will power the 90-seat CRJ-900 with its CF34-8C5 turbofan engine.

The CRJ-900, a stretched derivative of the 70-seat CRJ-700, is scheduled to be officially launched in the third quarter of this year.

First flight is planned for first quarter 2001, and first delivery for the end of that year.