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Several years ago, American airlines faced the challenge of replacing aging 50-seat aircraft such as the Bombardier CRJ 100/200 and Embraer ERJ-145. As major manufacturers like Embraer and Bombardier had ceased production of these smaller planes, an alternative solution was necessary. Bombardier's approach involved modifying the larger CRJ700 to create a new model with only 50 seats, known as the CRJ550.
In February 2019, FlightGlobal reported that Bombardier was advancing with the certification process for this new model. United Airlines was announced as the first carrier to incorporate these planes into its operations through GoJet Airlines based in St. Louis.
Certification for the CRJ550 was achieved by September 26, 2019. Fred Cromer, then President of Bombardier, remarked on this development: “The new CRJ550 model is the only solution in North America that can replace the existing fleet of aging 50-seaters... This is one more example of how we are focusing on creating value for our customers and a very important endorsement from United in regards to the CRJ platform.”
