Bombardier Aerospace's all new Global Express business jet obtained type approval from the European Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) last week.

The Global Express is the first ultra long-range business jet to receive this JAA approval. Bombardier says it is the only aircraft in its category designed to meet the latest requirements of long-range corporate travel with its range and speed, reliability and the largest cabin in corporate aviation.

Global Express received its Transport Canada certification last July and FAA type approval in November.

Bombardier has signed 80 firm orders for the jet to date and more than 16 production aircraft are currently undergoing interior finishing at the company's completion centers in Montreal and in Tucson.

The aircraft risk-sharing partners include BMW Rolls-Royce, Sextant Avionique, Lucas Aerospace, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Honeywell, AlliedSignal Aerospace and Messier Dowty International.

Bombardier will roll out its 70-seat Canadair Regional Jet for commercial airlines later this month.