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Farnborough July 16, 2006 - Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. (P&WC), a United Technologies Corp. company, has successfully completed the first run of its new PW617F turbine engine, selected by Embraer to power the Phenom 100 very light jet (VLJ).

The PW617F development engine successfully ran at its full takeoff thrust of 1,695 lbs. at P&WC's test facilities in Mississauga, Ontario, on June 29, 2006.

"We're very proud to have achieved first run only a year after beginning development work on the PW617F," said Keyvan Fard, vice president - Regional Airline & Turboshaft Engines, P&WC. "This demonstrates yet again the design robustness of our new PW600 engine family, which offers an optimized combination of value and performance to operators."

The PW617F was chosen by Embraer to power the Phenom 100 in May 2005, and engine design work began in July 2005. The PW617F engine, featuring a dual-channel Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC), is part of the Pratt & Whitney Canada's new PW600 engine family, which offers a step change in performance, cost and durability. Designed with a 50 percent reduction in parts count, the PW617F incorporates the latest technologies while offering optimum value to the operators. Certification of the PW617F is expected in the fourth quarter 2007.

Farnborough July 16, 2006 - Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. (P&WC), a United Technologies Corp. company, has seen PW100 turboprop engine deliveries jump nearly three-fold in the past two years amid soaring airline orders for turboprop aircraft.

"Turboprops are enjoying a strong resurgence thanks to their excellent operating economics in these times of escalating fuel prices," said Keyvan Fard, vice president - Regional Airline & Turboshaft Engines, P&WC. "More than 160 aircraft powered by members of our PW100 engine family were ordered in 2005. We are enjoying a strong surge in engine deliveries as a result and expect this to continue for several years."

P&WC is the engine supplier of choice for modern turboprops. Its PW100 family powers market leaders ATR 42 and 72 aircraft and Bombardier Q Series regional aircraft. "The PW100 is a very reliable, robust engine with a long life on the wing and well suited to the regional market" said Fard. "Today, we power more than 80 percent of modern turboprop aircraft throughout the world and are continuing to work closely with our customers to further strengthen the success of the turboprop."

Technology advances to further improve operating economics, passenger comfort, noise levels and emissions have all played a role in driving the renewed popularity of turboprops in world markets. Recent demand has been especially strong in South East Asia, the Pacific Region and Europe. The US market also is seeing renewed interest stemming from turboprops' excellent fuel economy and short haul economics.

"This represents a major shift in this very important market and bodes very well for the future" notes Fard. "Airlines are recognizing that regional jets and turboprops are highly complementary, with RJs offering increased productivity on longer routes and turboprops providing unbeatable operating economics for the short-haul market."

Many airlines are renewing their fleets with the latest ATR and Q Series turboprop models, which offer levels of comfort equivalent to a jet and consume significantly less fuel, with correspondingly lower greenhouse gas emissions.

"PW100 turboprops consume 25 to 40 percent less fuel and produce up to 50 percent lower exhaust emissions than any RJ" said Fard. "But we are not standing still. We are constantly injecting new engine technologies to further enhance the PW100's leadership in operating economics. We are also continuously working with the airlines to optimize their individual maintenance programs, enhanced with cutting-edge engine monitoring systems. Turboprops have an exciting future and we are proud to be playing a major part in their worldwide resurgence."

Charlotte NC July 16, 2006 - Farnborough International 2006 -- Goodrich Corporation has signed a 10-year agreement with EgyptAir to provide total aftermarket support for its Airbus A320 family aircraft. The contract, which covers 17 aircraft, is expected to generate up to $40 million in revenue over the next 10 years for Goodrich.

Goodrich will provide a fixed-cost, flight-hour based, support program which offers EgyptAir 24-hour, 7-day-a-week availability of nacelle and thrust reverser original equipment parts and repair services. In addition, the agreement includes extended product warranties and on-site support.

"This agreement represents our first flight-hour based aftermarket support program with an airline in this dynamic region of the world," said Goodrich Aerostructures Aftermarket Services Vice President & General Manager, Bob Gustafson. "It reflects the growing confidence this strategic airline customer has in our ability to maximize the asset value of its A320 fleet. We consider this agreement to be the cornerstone for a broader relationship with not only EgyptAir - one of the pioneer airlines in the world - but also other carriers operating in the Middle East, Africa, and the Mediterranean."

Support work and services will be performed at the Goodrich Aerostructures Service Center - Prestwick, an EASA- and FAA-certified repair station located in Scotland.

Established in 1932, EgyptAir today operates one of the most modern and youngest fleets in the industry. Its fleet includes Airbus A320, A321, A330 and A340 aircraft -- as well as Boeing 737 and 777 jets.

EgyptAir operates more than 400 weekly flights from Cairo and several other Egyptian cities to more than 66 international and domestic destinations in Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has granted EgyptAir Part 145 certification, authorizing the carrier to perform line maintenance and return to service aircraft registered in EU member states. EgyptAir performs this service through a network of resident certified staff in Luxor, Alexandria, Hurghada, Aswan, and Sharm El sheikh. EgyptAir plans to obtain EASA certification for base maintenance and overhaul workshops and outstations by the end of July 2006.

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - United Zenith Company, Agent for Hafei Aviation Industry Company (HAFEI), has chosen Goodrich Corporation to provide externally mounted D.C. rescue hoist systems for its HAFEI Z-9 rescue helicopter fleet. The first contracted installations will begin this year, with Goodrich delivering 30 units through 2008.

According to Steve Loye, Vice President of Goodrich's hoist and winch team, "This contract is a strategic milestone for us as it represents our first contract in support of a Chinese manufactured search and rescue aircraft. HAFEI recognizes the benefits of our unique translating drum technology as it fits their search and rescue needs."

Goodrich's hoist and winch team, headquartered in Diamond Bar, Calif., produces both traditional level wind and industry-unique translating drum cable management systems. Because the mission capabilities of the design concepts are so unique, Goodrich distinguishes between the technologies by category distinctions -- translating drum as Category One and the traditional level wind as Category Two. Goodrich is the only manufacturer of the Category One technology in the world.

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - ExpressJet Airlines, Inc. has extended its asset management agreement for aftermarket services with Goodrich Corporation in support of the airline's Embraer ERJ 135/145 fleet. The additions will provide exchange pools of sensing products and related systems, as well as maintenance services, to ensure immediate availability at a fee, based on the airline's annual flight hours.

"This asset management agreement is consistent with our aftermarket strategic business expansion. The arrangement provides benefits to both ExpressJet and Goodrich," stated Jan Mathiesen, Vice President, Goodrich Sensor Systems. "For ExpressJet, it reduces AOG situations, keeps their fleet dispatched and operational, and provides predictable maintenance costs. It simplifies our interface, making it easier for us to do business with each other," Mathiesen added.

ExpressJet operates one of the world's largest Embraer aircraft fleets. Goodrich is the original equipment manufacturer, and the company's Customer Services division is the aftermarket service provider, on ExpressJet fleet's: thrust reverser actuators; wheels and brakes; power generators; air data and temperature sensors; electronic and hydro-mechanical engine controls; and the fuel nozzles.

Paul Snyder, President, Goodrich Customer Services added, "ExpressJet recognized early on that it needed to find strategic partnerships to focus on exceptional product reliability, improved turn times and predictable and competitive operating costs. They are astute in the art of asset management and here at our Monroe, North Carolina Customer Services facility we're proud to have been part of that successful equation for the past six years and look forward to continuing to contribute to their success."

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - Goodrich Corporation with support from the European Commission, is continuing to work on the development of the more electric aircraft. As part of "Project MOET" (More Open Electrical Technologies), led by Airbus, the Goodrich Actuation Systems team in France will be leading the actuation research activities. The actuation work package is one of nine across the MOET project; the goal of the project is to develop the technologies required for the more electric aircraft. Benefits of an electric architecture include improvements in environmental impact and reliability as well as reduced maintenance costs.

Goodrich's research and development teams have produced many significant technologies that have, and will continue to allow, aircraft to evolve. Over the past 35 years, Goodrich's Actuation Systems team has transformed actuation from mechanical input actuators to Fly-By-Wire to the current Power-By-Wire actuation.

According to Goodrich's Eric Schulz, President, Actuation Systems, "Goodrich is committed to new technology projects that will lead to the development of the all electric aircraft. All electric platforms are the future. We are preparing for the next generation of aircraft."

Additional Goodrich technologies contributing to the evolution of the all electric aircraft include electric actuation for extension, retraction and steering of the landing gear system; electro-mechanical braking; the electrical power generation system/Variable Frequency Generators (VFG); and the ability to demonstrate electric engine start-up.

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - Goodrich Corporation has signed an agreement with Stork SP Aerospace to supply Polymer Matrix Composites (PMC) for use in landing gear system applications.

According to Mike Brand, President, Goodrich Landing Gear, "Composites are a key component of future landing gear designs as they help us to meet two critical demands in the marketplace -- reduction of overall aircraft weight and improved efficiency. Stork has refined its design and manufacturing process to the point that application and certification for a wide range of commercial transport and military platforms are now readily possible. Furthermore, composite manufacturing site flexibility enables us to have a Stork presence on-site at any of our world-wide Goodrich Landing Gear facilities allowing us to manage just-in-time delivery and incorporation of the composite technology into our landing gear."

Brand continued, "Our established position as a technology leader in landing gear systems combined with Stork's advanced composite design and manufacturing capabilities made this arrangement a natural solution for our customers. With the rapidly rising cost and lead-time of steel and titanium, advanced composites are now attractive from a cost perspective as well as offering substantial weight savings and lead-time reduction of landing gear structural components. Composite material technologies are being incorporated throughout new aircraft platforms providing weight improvements over metallic material without compromising performance. Goodrich Landing Gear, in partnership with Stork SP Aerospace, will seek to incorporate PMC structural elements into current and future programs as quickly as practical for our customers."

An example of a large commercial transport lower drag brace fabricated and tested with Stork's proven composite technology will be on display in Goodrich's Pavilion, Outside OE5, during Farnborough International.

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - Goodrich Corporation has launched construction of a new component and systems maintenance and repair campus in Dubai to serve its Middle Eastern, African and south Asian customers. The new site adds to the company's existing global MRO presence.

Goodrich currently has facilities in North America, Australia, China as well as Singapore and provides critical MRO services to the worldwide fleet of both commercial and military aircraft.

Ramp up for the facility in Dubai will take place over the course of this year with initial capabilities in place by year-end. Repair services at the site will encompass components and systems such as cargo and sensor systems as well as aircraft evacuation systems. By the completion of the facility in 2007, Goodrich expects to have a customized, 115,000-square-foot facility, in which spares and assets will be managed, and component and system repair work will take place for products and systems which span Goodrich's diverse original equipment manufacturing expertise.

On the defense side of the industry, Goodrich's strategic locations across the globe will allow opportunities for the company to assist the US Department of Defense as well as foreign military fleets.

According to NS (Pandri) Pandarinath, Vice President MRO, Europe, Middle East and Africa for Goodrich's Customer Services team, "Our Dubai facility is an extension of our ability to provide our global customer base with the right assets in the right place at the right time. It's all about speed and ease of doing business. The new site allows our customer services team to provide localized support and enables us to bring multiple Goodrich MRO capabilities under one roof, thus creating 'one face to the customer' across all areas of Goodrich's expertise."

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - Jet Airways has selected Goodrich Corporation to supply wheels and brakes for its new fleet of Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. First deliveries of the fleet of 10 firm & 10 option Boeing 777-300ER aircraft are expected to begin in March 2007.

According to Jim Wharton, Vice President, Commercial Aircraft Wheels & Brakes, "We appreciate the confidence Jet Airways has in Goodrich and are pleased to have the opportunity to expand our long standing relationship as we support this important new fleet. Jet Airways identified both our willingness to find flexible solutions and the support that our team has provided to their fleet of Boeing 737NG aircraft as key factors in the selection of our team in this highly competitive market."

Dato' K. Jeyakanthan, VP Engineering Services at Jet Airways stated, "Goodrich has been working with Jet Airways since the airline's inception in 1993. Our entire Boeing 737 fleet is fitted with Goodrich wheels and brakes. We are satisfied with both their product performance and support. In view of the cordial working relationship between our two companies, Jet Airways has selected Goodrich wheels and brakes for the newest addition to our fleet, 10 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft."

In addition to wheels and brakes, Goodrich supplies a wide variety of products and systems as original equipment on the 777-300ER ranging from landing gear to interior lighting.

Goodrich's Aircraft Wheels & Brakes team has been a world leader in the design, development and manufacturing of commercial, military, regional and business aircraft wheels and brakes for more than 50 years. The business also provides aftermarket service and critical spares to the world's major airlines. It has created innovative braking systems for over 200 types of aircraft during this half century and has many more technological improvements in development.

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - Goodrich Corporation recently completed the first test assembly of the GP7200 engine in its preparation to support production activity for the Airbus A380 program. Engine Alliance, a 50/50 joint venture between GE Aircraft Engines and Pratt & Whitney, selected Goodrich's Toulouse team to perform the final assembly and engine build-up of its GP7200 engine for the Airbus A380 in 2004. The Engine Alliance ships the engine to Toulouse in a split ship configuration -- fan case and propulsor separated. The test assembly conducted at the company's Toulouse, France Aerostructures facility included rejoining the fan case section of the engine to the engine core/propulsor. Fully assembled, a single engine measures 12.8 feet in diameter.

In addition, Goodrich installs engine build-up kits consisting of the: pneumatics and starter systems; hydraulic and fuel systems; pylon drain; fire extinguisher; and several electrical harnesses are also installed, including the Variable Frequency Generator (VFG) harness.

Finally, Goodrich installs a package of Airbus Buyer-Furnished Equipment on the bare engine which includes engine mounts; thrust links; hydraulic pumps; fuel and hydraulic lines; pressure valves; and VFG. The VFG itself has Goodrich origins. It is manufactured by Aerolec, a joint venture between Goodrich and Thales. While compact in size at 19.7 inches by 11.8 inches and 143 pounds, the VFG plays a key role on board the A380, producing electricity for the entire aircraft.

According to Jean Luminet, President, Goodrich Aerospace Europe, "Our team is proud to be part of another milestone in the development of this very high profile aircraft as it makes its way into the global fleet. We're also pleased with our team's application of Lean Manufacturing tools and practices which allow us to continually meet our customer's deadlines. Planning for the GP7200 engine assembly began as far back as January 2005 and involved a delicate balance of many technically challenging tasks. We even had to modify our infrastructure to accommodate the assembly. For example, we installed pedestals, as well as an ergonomically-designed shipping stand for 'marrying up' the propulsor and fan cowl."

In addition to providing the build-up of the GP7200 engine for the A380, Goodrich has a number of systems and technologies on board the aircraft. The company's evacuation slides played a key role in the Airbus A380 full-scale evacuation test which was successfully completed this past March in Hamburg, Germany. The test simulated an emergency involving 853 passengers, 18 flight attendants and two flight crew. It purposely used only half of the 16 Goodrich-produced slides on board. In total, 873 people were safely evacuated from the plane in 78 seconds on the eight slides that were deployed in complete darkness. The test aircraft was configured to represent a maximum density seating arrangement and the flight attendants were seated in Goodrich- produced cabin attendant seats. It was the largest evacuation test ever conducted and the first time a test involved a dual deck passenger aircraft with both decks as part of the test. The test was performed under the supervision of the European Aviation Safety Agency and representatives from the US FAA. Both regulatory agencies declared the test a complete success after a thorough analysis of the evacuation process.

Goodrich, as one of the world's largest suppliers of landing systems, also provides both the main body and wing landing gear for the aircraft. Though Goodrich was already a major supplier for Airbus, it was the first time the company had been selected to provide landing gear for an Airbus aircraft. The components for the landing gear system are produced by Goodrich's Landing Gear division and involve manufacturing facilities in Oakville, Ontario, Canada; Cleveland, Ohio; Tullahoma, Tennessee; and Krosno, Poland. The final gear integration takes place at the Goodrich facility in Toulouse before delivery to Airbus' final assembly line.

Goodrich's innovative High-Density Discharge (HID) and LED-based exterior lighting and flight controls, that take advantage of the latest power-by-wire technology, are also on board the aircraft. And Goodrich will provide the primary and standby air data systems.

Goodrich is also supplying an automatic ice detection system, and will bring its experience in aircraft materials and structures to bear in the development of the aircraft's cargo system and with several structural components.

Goodrich's Aerostructures team also provides the sail fairing, or Rear Secondary Structure, an aerodynamic surface that serves to reduce drag associated with the trailing edge of the A380's pylon. It also encloses a number of aircraft systems, which must be easily accessible through various doors and removable panels. The company provides the aft pylon fairing, which also reduces aircraft drag and protects the primary and secondary pylon structures from temperature extremes. In addition, Goodrich will provide the center and rear fan case sections as well as the engine sensor suite for the Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engine option on the A380.

Furthermore, as the A380 enters service, Goodrich's Component Support network and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facilities are being equipped to provide the aftermarket services necessary to keep the A380 in the skies.

Charlotte July 16, 2006 - Goodrich Corporation will debut a first at the Farnborough International Air Show. For the first time in its long history of participating in the show, Goodrich will be on site with an innovative combined stand and chalet in the form of a two-story pavilion. Located "Outside OE5," the pavilion replaces Goodrich's separate chalet and stand. With its location literally at the center of the show site, the pavilion will add to the speed and ease of doing business with Goodrich for show attendees as well as Goodrich's guests and staff.

On the ground floor of the new structure all show-goers are welcome to tour Goodrich's innovative products and services in an interactive environment. Goodrich will feature its latest commercial systems and technologies such as, landing gear, wheels and brakes, and sensors, for new and existing platforms. In addition, its contribution to defense and homeland security will be on display, with innovations such as: sensor technologies for laser detection; surveillance and reconnaissance systems for fighters and UAVs; and laser systems for perimeter awareness and obstacle avoidance. Goodrich will also be focusing on its services in the aftermarket with many experts on hand to provide more information.

The upper floor of the new pavilion accommodates private dining space as well as an air show viewing platform.

According to Lisa Bottle, Vice President, Corporation Communications, Goodrich Corporation, "we are excited about our new pavilion concept. It's a literal interpretation of our 'one face to the customer' approach to doing business. And in the high energy, time crunch atmosphere of a major international air show, the two most valuable resources for exhibitors and attendees alike are time and energy. With this new concept we're able to conserve both all while creating a truly memorable experience for our guests as well as the Goodrich team who has made this new concept a reality."

Amanda Steiner, Exhibitions and Events Director, Farnborough International, Ltd. stated, "Goodrich has always had a strong presence at Farnborough International Airshow and we are delighted that they have decided, this year, to expand their presence further by building a pavilion which will incorporate their stand and hospitality facilities. This impressive pavilion, located in a prime site, will attract the attention of the visitors and be an excellent marketing tool for Goodrich. As Farnborough is such a flexible site we are sure that once companies see Goodrich's new 'look' others will follow suit."

Farnborough July 16, 2006 - Look! Up in the sky! It's green, it's orange, it's Taiwan's EVA Air's Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) arriving at the Farnborough International Air Show airfield.

The new jetliner Boeing delivered to EVA Air last month features a special livery and will be on static display during the air show from July 17 - 23.

It is the third Boeing 777-300ER EVA Air operates, EVA Air is one of the launch customers for the 777.

The twin-engine EVA Air 777-300ER carries 316 passengers in a three-class configuration and flies up to 7,880 nautical miles (14,594 kilometers). The airplane is capable of serving such routes as Los Angeles - Taipei and Taipei - London.

Farnborough July 16, 2006 - Smiths Aerospace at Farnborough 2006 will focus on three strategic business areas which over the last five years have won more than $16 billion of future new business.

Smiths' position as a tier 1 systems integrator is supported by state of the art digital, electrical and mechanical capabilities; extensive precision engine component facilities in North America, the UK, Poland and China; and global capabilities in the aftermarket providing high performance aircraft with high performance support.

Dr. John Ferrie, President, Smiths Aerospace, said on the eve of the show, "Farnborough provides a showcase for our growing capability as a leading supplier of integrated digital, electrical and mechanical systems. Winning $16 billion of new business shows our strategy is working."

Smiths' pavilion will highlight technologies and integrated systems for various platforms, some of which include A380, B787, C-130AMP, C-130J, 767 Tanker, F-35 JSF, A400M, Future Lynx and Apache. Smiths' breadth of capabilities in digital computing, electrical generation and distribution and then mechanical systems, address the systems requirements on airplanes and make it uniquely able to provide these technologies.

Minneapolis July 15, 2006 - The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) said it is willing to continue negotiations with Mesaba Airlines but will immediately appeal Friday's court ruling that would allow the company to reject its contracts with its unions provided it gives them 10 days' notice.

According to Kevin Wildermuth, AMFA negotiating committee chairman, "The guiding principle of AMFA's efforts in the Mesaba bankruptcy has been to reach a consensual agreement with the company, because that is the only route that will allow both the employees and the company to move forward over difficult times. Prior to yesterday's ruling, AMFA negotiated all week with the company. Going forward, AMFA will continue to negotiate toward a consensual agreement. AMFA has put significant money on the table and has offered meaningful and painful compromises in order to accommodate the company's distressed condition. Now, a consensual agreement will occur only when the company begins to compromise its demands to meet the fair and equitable needs of its employees. In sum, AMFA members are willing to make sacrifices to help save Mesaba but they are not willing to subsidize corporate profits at their expense. If a consensual agreement is not reached, it will not be the fault of AMFA."

Wildermuth said AMFA will immediately appeal the order allowing the rejection and will seek an expedited process for the appeal.

If the company imposes a contract, he said, AMFA leadership intends to assert rejection claims for the value of its contract. It also anticipates mass individual employee resignations. "AMFA reserves the right to exercise all legal options, up to and including a strike. No strike will commence, however, without a call to strike issued by the AMFA National Director or Acting National Director," Wildermuth said.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - CAE has signed a contract with Air Deccan of India for the provision of an A320 full-flight simulator and a CAE Simfinity(R) A320 Integrated Procedures Trainer (IPT). Air Deccan has also selected CAE to provide up to five years of simulator maintenance and support services.

At list prices, including some buyer-furnished equipment, the contract and future services agreement is valued at approximately C$20 million and brings the total full-flight simulator sales that CAE has announced in fiscal 2007 to eight.

The A320 FFS will feature the CAE Tropos(R) II Enhanced visual system that takes full advantage of satellite imagery to create realistic virtual environments for training pilots. The simulator will be delivered in the summer of 2007 to Air Deccan's new Bangalore training center, which is scheduled to open in 2007. The training center will also include a CAE-built ATR 72-500 full-flight simulator that regional aircraft manufacturer ATR is providing to Air Deccan.

"Our new training center is a critical piece of our strategy to provide high-quality training to our pilots here in India," said Warwick Brady, Chief Operating Officer of Air Deccan. "CAE has a well-earned reputation for its simulation technology and quality so after a thorough evaluation it was clear CAE was the right simulation equipment provider for Air Deccan."

"The aviation market in India is poised for tremendous growth over the next decade and CAE is unique in its ability to provide turnkey training solutions to airlines in the region, from the world's most advanced simulators and training devices to flight training and pilot provisioning services," said Marc Parent, CAE's Group President, Simulation Products and Military Training & Services. "We're extremely pleased that Air Deccan has recognized CAE's simulation technology leadership and we look forward to helping the airline continue to grow and prosper."

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - CAE has signed a number of contracts with a total value of approximately C$17 million to offer training services to airlines in Europe and South America, including a five-year contract to provide GOL Airlines of Brazil with Boeing 737NG training at CAE's Sao Paulo training center.

Currently, CAE owns six flight-training centers in Europe, where the company operates a total of 30 civil full-flight simulators. In South America, CAE owns a total of eight full-flight simulators at its two training centers in Sao Paulo, Brazil and Santiago, Chile.

"We are seeing an increase in demand for training among our clients in Europe and South America, particularly for narrow-body aircraft types," said Jeff Roberts, CAE's Group President, Civil Training & Services and Innovation.

"These contracts represent another example of CAE's efforts to listen to our customers, adapt to their needs in timely manner, and provide a world-class training service that is close and convenient for them."

In addition to GOL Airlines, other customers who have signed training service contracts with CAE include Dutch Antilles Express, City Star Airlines, White Eagle Aviation, and Freedom Airways.

Toronto July 17, 2006 - Atlantis Systems Corp., a training integrator specializing in military, commercial aviation and energy markets worldwide, today announced that it has been awarded a contract to develop and deliver a Cockpit Procedures Trainer (CPT) for the Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) over the next two years. The Atlantis CPT provides orientation and procedural training for helicopter aircrews and will be delivered to the RDAF through AgustaWestland. The value of the contract cannot be disclosed owing to confidentiality restrictions.

"One of our stated growth objectives is helicopter and aircrew systems sales growth," said Andrew Day, President and CEO of Atlantis. "The helicopter sector is one of our key areas of strategic focus and is a natural extension of the helicopter training capabilities we will deliver as part of the Contracted Flying Training and Support program. Our goal, to source growth of

Atlantis by extending our training offerings in this segment, is evidenced by the award of this contract and also by our ongoing investment in our new Helicopter Vocational Trainer."

Atlantis will develop an advanced CPT for the Royal Danish Air Force's EH101 multi-purpose helicopter, based on Atlantis' proven EH101 product previously delivered to the Canadian Forces and AgustaWestland. The Danish version of the CPT will expand the flight training capability of the Atlantis-developed system to include many new features including mission rehearsals and an enhanced projected visual system.

McLean VA July 17, 2006 - Alion Science and Technology today announced that its CATI Simulation Operation has completed a visual system upgrade on a B747-200 Flight Simulator that was certified to Level C standards by the FAA on June 29. The simulator is operated at a major airline training center in Denver, CO.

Built on Alion's X-100(TM) Image Generator, the visual system is capable of meeting proposed FAA/JAA Level C/D standards for realism and detail, which are more stringent than current requirements. The system eliminates the need for expensive calligraphic lights to meet those standards.

According to Rae Dehncke, Alion Vice President, the X-100 solution offers significant advantages to pilot training centers, as it is both highly accurate and cost-effective. "Delivering these features on a PC platform means that acquisition and ownership costs can be dramatically reduced," Dehncke said. "Just as important, merging the X-100 architecture with raster lighting, state of the art projection equipment and precision satellite imagery provides maximum performance, so it really is the best of both worlds."

Dehncke said that accuracy and long-term affordability are crucial to a successful training program. "Pilots need to train in the most realistic environment possible. When they look out of the simulated window, they need to see buildings, terrain and environments that precisely replicate what they would see on approach to an airfield," he explained. "The combination of highly accurate terrain databases and image generators that present true-to-life lighting, environmental conditions and textures can make training much more effective."

The combination of new hardware and software technologies has resulted in greater resolution, brightness and contrast ratios that supports the light point brightness required for FAA/JAA Level C/D certification without expensive calligraphic lights.

In addition, improvements in database development techniques, significantly larger data storage capabilities and the employment of what Alion calls "micro textures" allow for the creation of high detail, photo-realistic visual scenes that enhance realism for both enroute and airfield operations.

South St Paul MN July 16, 2006 - Ballistic Recovery Systems, Inc., a manufacturer and worldwide supplier of whole-airplane parachute recovery systems for general aviation and recreational aircraft, announced today an agreement to develop and install a BRS parachute system for Diamond Aircraft's new D-JET. This historical commitment to aviation safety signifies the first time a whole airframe recovery parachute system will be developed for installation in a civilian jet for use by the general flying public.

"We have been discussing the possibility for many years, but this agreement with Diamond Aircraft represents the next step required to make our vision a reality. Our spending on the development program has recently accelerated to accommodate this next generation jet aircraft," said Boris Popov, founder of BRS and board member. "Diamond Aircraft gives us the first product platform in the important new very light jet category and will be a driver for the combined efforts of our development teams."

"The D-JET will be fully certified to fly without the parachute, but the parachute will be offered as the standard option. This expands our tradition of active safety by adding an advanced, proven passive safety system to the aircraft. Pilots and passengers alike desire the reliability of a proven safety technology from the market leader in whole aircraft parachute recovery systems. We are pleased to select BRS as our development partner for this program," said Peter Maurer, President of Diamond Aircraft Industries.

BRS Vice President of Engineering Frank Hoffmann said, "We expect the initial system to operate at an airspeed and altitude that can allow a safe recovery of the aircraft and occupants, in situations such as the unlikely event of an IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions) engine failure or a low altitude emergency. Expansion of the flight envelope with a secondary system can be integrated later to allow high speed and high altitude scenario recoveries which are much less likely to occur, but are also more difficult to execute." Hoffmann said "the expanded jet high speed, high altitude parachute recovery system will require only a small increase in weight to house drogue parachute as well as the computer logic to control the deployment sequence."

In Ballistic Recovery System's 25-year history, the company has sold over 22,000 onboard emergency parachute systems to aircraft owners around the world, including over 2,700 systems on certified aircraft. BRS units to date have been documented in saving 190 lives, with 14 of those in certified aircraft.

Toulouse July 17, 2006 - Airbus' new President and CEO, Christian Streiff, confirmed today Airbus' commitment to its customers and future business growth and presented a whole new family of aircraft, the A350 XWB, for Extra Wide Body, Extra Comfort, Extra Efficiency and going the Extra mile for customers.

The new family will consist of four passenger versions and one freighter, completing the Airbus long-range product for the 21st century with the most modern and technologically advanced products. Increased range, increased speed, enhanced passenger comfort and the best economics will make the A350 XWB a reference for the future.

"I want this company to get back to its basics: Airbus' success has been based on the enormous courage it took to introduce the latest technologies, and on strong customer orientation with a spirit of always delivering more than expected. I want to keep this Airbus way of working, but on top be focussed 100 percent on orderly execution and reliability," said Airbus' President and CEO Christian Streiff. He added: "Based on previous lessons learnt, the A350 XWB brings Airbus fully back into the game and will be a success. A success for customers, shareholders and all other stakeholders in Airbus."

The A350-800 seats 270 passengers in a spacious three-class configuration, the A350-900 can accommodate 314 and the A350-1000 is designed for a capacity of 350. These three versions will have a range of 8500 NM and a cruise speed of Mach 0.85. Entry into service for the A350-900 is foreseen for 2012. Beyond this, the A350-900R will take the range even further as an ultra long-range aircraft. A freighter version, the A350-900F will complete the family.

A generation beyond existing aircraft in this category, passengers on board the A350 XWB will benefit from a wider cross section, allowing for wider seats, wider aisles and more head and shoulder clearance. 20 percent cabin humidity and wider panoramic windows will further enhance the passenger experience.

Taking advantage of the most modern technology developed for the A380, the A350 XWB will offer the most advanced interactive cockpit with a head-up display, a dual integrated standby instrument system, a vertical display, on board information, airport navigation system and the brake to vacate function.

The latest new generation engines will make it the most fuel efficient aircraft in this category with up to 30 percent advantage over current existing aircraft and six percent over future aircraft in development. It also offers the quietest aircraft in the sky with low noise and low emissions, responding to the most stringent environmental requirements. QC1 for departure and QC 0.5 for arrival will make it a most friendly neighbor.

Toulouse July 17, 2006 - GoAir, 'The Fly Smart Airline' based in Mumbai, signed a purchase agreement for 10 Airbus A320 family aircraft with an option for a further ten at Farnborough air show on Monday 17th July 2006. CFM International engines will power the aircraft.

GoAir launched services with two leased A320's in November 2005, with a further five leased A320's scheduled to enter the fleet during 2006. All of the A320 aircraft on firm order will seat 180 passengers in an all-economy layout. In bringing these aircraft into service GoAir will expand services to major business and leisure destinations across the country.

"I am delighted to have signed this contract which is a demonstration of our long standing confidence in the Airbus A320 family. These aircraft will enable us to develop our network and introduce new routes not previously served and we are excited about being able to offer the "Fly Smart" experience to more cities and passengers throughout India," Mr Jeh Wadia, Managing Director, GoAir.
"I am very happy that GoAir has extended its partnership with Airbus by signing an agreement for more aircraft. The purchase agreement signifies the growth of the airline and the increasing popularity of the A320 aircraft," said Christian Streiff, Airbus President and CEO.

GoAir currently operates a fleet of Airbus A320s with 24 flights covering 13 cities including Jammu & Srinagar.

Airbus' A320 family is the acknowledged technological leader in the single-aisle class, with advanced features such as fuel-saving wingtip fences, weight-saving composites, and the reliability that comes from its modern design and ease of maintenance. It also consistently leads in independent passenger and operator surveys.

Airbus' A320 family is the most successful aircraft family in the world, and having been chosen by around 180 operators around the world, including both traditional and low-cost carriers. Firm orders for the Airbus A320 family stand at almost 4,300 aircraft, more than 2,800 of which have been delivered.

Around the world with the Airbus Maintenance Mobile Classroom

Toulouse July 17, 2006 - Airbus has developed and successfully launched a flexible training solution, known as the Airbus Maintenance Mobile Classroom. Based on the new and innovative Airbus approach to maintenance training, Airbus Active learning and Competence focused Training (AACT), the mobile classroom is aiming to make Airbus-standard courses, instructors and technology even more widely available around the world.

Airbus' new solution consists of a fully equipped classroom that can be taken anytime, anywhere in the world to deliver training at the customer's site. It includes student and instructor workstations, plus all the necessary course materials such as Computer Based Training (CBT) and an Airbus qualified instructor will also be present to lead the AACT training.

Throughout the course, the aircraft engineers benefit from the same learning methods, state-of-the-art equipment (2D Maintenance/Flight Training Devices - MFTDs) and virtual reality tools as provided in any of the Airbus Training Centers worldwide. The intensive classroom use of these advanced simulation technologies, including the Virtual Aircraft, allows trainees to perform complete maintenance tasks in a highly operational oriented way.

"Taking AACT training technologies to our customers' site, we offer them a flexible and convenient solution to rapidly qualifying their maintenance staff with reduced practical training performed on the aircraft itself. We have the ability to maximize the effectiveness of the delivered training whilst minimizing costs and the time course participants would spend away from their desks," said Patrick Gavin, Executive Vice President Customer Services.

The A320 Family is the first program to benefit from this new and cost-effective training solution. The first Airbus Maintenance Mobile Classroom has been successfully installed for LAN-Argentina in Buenos Aires in April 2006 and then for Indigo in New Delhi in May 2006. The concept will soon be extended for the other models of the Airbus fly-by-wire family.

The Airbus Maintenance Mobile Classroom is an integral part of the overall Airbus Customer Services portfolio, Air+ by Airbus.

Atlanta July 17, 2006 - Delta Air Lines today announced that Michael H. Campbell is joining the company as Executive Vice President, Human Resources and Labor Relations, effective immediately. Campbell, 57, a nationally recognized expert in employment and labor matters, was a founding partner of Atlanta-based law firm Ford & Harrison LLP, where he is leaving to join Delta. The position at Delta had been vacant.

In addition to providing labor counsel to Fortune 500 companies for 25 years, Campbell's career also includes a stint in a similar capacity at Continental Airlines where, for six of his eight years there, Fortune Magazine selected the company among the "100 Best Places to Work."

"Our people are our greatest asset, and in order for Delta to be the airline most preferred by customers for its service, we first must be the place Delta people most want to work. Mike's experience is unparalleled in promoting an inclusive, diverse and respectful culture where employees across all workgroups, together with management, are engaged and collaborating in initiatives that are rewarding for both the company and its people. As we work together to build a Delta that matches our vision, Mike's win-win, results-oriented approach will benefit us all. He's a great addition to our seasoned management team," said Gerald Grinstein, Delta's chief executive officer.

"As an Atlanta resident with a career largely centered around aviation employment and labor matters, I have long admired Delta and its people -- the company's hallmark. Delta people have demonstrated both grit and grace in this toughest of industries struggling in these most challenging of times. This is a company on the move -- in no small part due to the extraordinary work and professionalism of its people -- and I'm honored to be joining them. I look forward to contributing to what I am certain will be its very successful transformation," said Campbell.

Campbell graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Richmond in 1971 and received his law degree from the University of Virginia in 1974. A member of the State Bar of Georgia, he is married and has five children.

Woodland Hills CA July 17, 2006 - Jet Airways, India's largest private carrier, has selected Northrop Grumman Corporation's latest air data inertial reference units for its new A330-200 aircraft.

"The advanced navigation system technology of our LTN-101E was an important consideration for Jet Airways," said Bob Bushnell, director of marketing and strategic planning at Northrop Grumman's Navigation Systems Division. "It provides the aircraft high dispatch reliability and lower cost of ownership demanded by today's carriers."

Northrop Grumman's LTN-101E inertial reference unit replaces ring-laser gyro technology with fiber-optic gyros and micro-electro mechanical systems silicon accelerometers that are more reliable and easier to maintain. Enhancements over its predecessor, the LTN-101, include a more than 50 percent reduction in electronic modules, faster processors, and a new interface bus that speeds transfer of data within the aircraft.

"Interchangeability with the LTN-101 makes it possible to provide rapid delivery to this important customer," said Tony Gitt, program manager for LTN-101E. The LTN-101E is interchangeable and intermixable with the earlier LTN-101 system utilized on Airbus aircraft, including the A320, A330 and A340.

Utilizing Northrop Grumman's patented AIME(tm) algorithm, the LTN-101E and LTN-101 integrate inertial and GPS measurements to provide highly accurate aircraft position with the highest integrity available.

Northrop Grumman will initially equip each of 12 Airbus A330-200 aircraft with a set of three LTN-101 or LTN-101E inertial reference units, with an option to equip an additional 10 aircraft with three inertial reference units each.

Winnipeg MB July 17, 2006 - Boeing today named Joy Romero president, Boeing Canada Operations, Ltd. and general manager of Boeing Winnipeg reporting to Pat McKenna, vice president and general manager of Boeing Fabrication -- the largest components supplier to Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Romero led Boeing's Salt Lake City components manufacturing site before assuming this position.

Prior to her transition to Commercial Airplanes from Integrated Defense Systems in 2005, Romero was director of business excellence for Army Systems in Philadelphia. There she led the Baldrige National Quality Program and implemented criteria for performance excellence as an overarching business model. Romero joined Boeing/Rockwell in 1982 as an engineer on the B-1B Lancer and later held leadership positions for B-1B Lancer, C-17 Globemaster III and Air Traffic Management programs.

A graduate of Pepperdine University with a Bachelor of Science in business management, Romero also earned a Master of Science in systems management from the University of Southern California and a graduate certificate in advance program management from the Department of Defense Systems Management College.

Integral to the company's global supply chain, Boeing Winnipeg is a division of Boeing Canada Operations, Ltd. -- a wholly owned subsidiary of the company's Commercial Airplanes business unit. Located in the Manitoba province of Canada, Boeing Winnipeg opened in 1971 with 50 employees. Since, Boeing Winnipeg has led the way establishing a $1.2 billion aerospace industry cluster that thrives in the region. Over 1,400 employees now work at the Winnipeg site, which is the largest aerospace composite manufacturer in Canada and the country's third largest aerospace facility.

As a manufacturing area of excellence, Boeing Winnipeg produces complex composite components for all Boeing 700-series commercial jets, such as engine thrust reverser blocker doors, engine strut forward and aft fairings and ducts.

Boeing Winnipeg also serves as a tier-one supplier partner on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the company's all-new airplane, which enters service in 2008. In this role, Boeing's Winnipeg site has responsibility for design, integration and delivery of the Dreamliner's wing-to-body fairing, main landing gear door, crown fairing and vertical fin fairing.

The team also supports 787 test programs evaluating composite manufacturing processes, with plans to deliver production parts to program supplier, Vought, including composite shear ties for sections 47 and 48 and forward and aft pylon fairings. Production of the composite shear ties represents Boeing Winnipeg's first primary structure work statement since implementation of the site's strategic business plan to transition into higher complexity composite component manufacturing.

"This major investment demonstrates our commitment to build a world-class cargo airline business based in Kuwait," said LoadAir's Chairman, Sheikh Khalifa Ali Al-Sabah. "The 747-400ERF has demonstrated the ability to perform unmatched cargo operations across the globe, and we look forward to employing our new freighters to offer a competitive solution to customers worldwide."

Launched in a highly successful IPO in 2005, LoadAir has been granted an exclusive license to carry cargo to and from Kuwait. The freight operator plans to develop local, regional and inter-continental cargo operations that will be managed from its base in Kuwait City, Kuwait.

"Two of the things we truly value are signing on new customers and working together with new operators to help them achieve success," said Lee Monson, vice president of Sales for the Middle East and Africa. "In selecting the 747-400ERF, we are confident that LoadAir joins a group of cargo operators that are flying the demonstrated superior heavy freighter in operation today."

The 747-400ERF has a maximum takeoff weight of 910,000 pounds (412,775 kg), a maximum payload of 248,600 pounds (112,760 kg) and a maximum range of 4,970 nautical miles (9200 km). The airplane's distinctive nose door allows increased revenue by accommodating high-value outsize shipments, and with the side door, provides superior efficiency and flexibility in ground operations.

Along with earlier versions, 747 Freighters - nearly 300 in all - carry half the freighter air cargo in the world. Boeing is the undisputed air cargo market leader, providing over 90 percent of the total worldwide dedicated freighter capacity.

The agreement was announced by Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Alan Mulally and Lion Air President Director Rusdi Kirana at the Farnborough Air Show. Lion Air, the launch customer for the 737-900ER, announced its first order for 30 737-900ERs and 30 purchase rights in July 2005. These two orders combined total 60 airplanes. Deliveries of the first order are scheduled to begin in 2007.

The order was recently included on the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Orders and Deliveries Web site, attributed to an unidentified customer.

"The Next-Generation 737 is the most efficient single-aisle family today, and we are thrilled that Lion Air has selected the 737-900ER to support its expansion and fleet modernization plans," Mulally said. "The 737-900ER increases the 737 family's range and seat capability, and it shares the same industry-leading reliability of the world's most successful airplane family. Lion Air has been a great launch customer, and we are looking forward to delivering the very first 737-900ER to Lion Air in 2007."

The 737-900ER, the newest member of the Next-Generation 737 airplane family, increases the capability of the 737 by carrying more passengers and flying farther.

"Maximizing the unprecedented economic advantages of the 737-900ER is the key to our future growth as we expand our routes and add new destinations within our growing market," said Kirana. "We look forward to introducing the 737-900ER into Lion Air's fleet and to our growing base of customers."

The 737-900ER is the same size as today's 737-900, but with the addition of a pair of exit doors and a flat-rear pressure bulkhead, it can carry 26 additional passengers, raising the maximum capacity from 189 to 215 in a single-class configuration. Additionally, Blended Winglets, advanced technology wing enhancements and auxiliary fuel tanks will give the 737-900ER an increased range of 3,200 nautical miles (5,925 kilometers) - 500 nautical miles more than the 737-900.

"This fleet will help meet Lion Air's strategic expansion goals," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales, South-Southeast Asia. "With more range and the lowest operating cost of any single-aisle jet in its class, the 737-900ER is an ideal fit to deliver superior economics and premier service."

Lion Air operates an all-Boeing fleet and is the largest low-cost airline in Asia with traffic reaching one million passengers a month since the airline's inception in June 2000.

The test piece measures approximately 17 feet front spar to rear spar and 50 feet from airplane centerline to the tip of the composite structure. It is 4 feet deep at the thickest section. It will weigh 55,000 pounds, including a great deal of test-only hardware and instrumentation. It was designed and built by a joint team of Boeing, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Fuji Heavy Industries.

While it is full-scale, the piece represents a portion of the wing section, beginning at about the center of the airplane and stopping at approximately two-thirds of the span of the wing.

"In addition to determining the strength of the structure, the tests we are running will help us to verify the analytical methods we have used to calculate the loads that the structure will have to carry," said Mike Bair, vice president and general manager of the 787 program for Boeing. "This is how we work through ensuring that the structure performs exactly as we predict during the design effort.

"We start by testing small coupons and elements to characterize the material system; we proceed to testing small and medium size articles of configured structure; and then proceed to full-scale testing."

Boeing will conduct structural tests on two full-scale 787 airframes as part of its validation and certification process. Those test programs, like the testing being run on the half-span wing box, will demonstrate the performance of the structure through multiple lifetimes of normal operational loads and test the structure to the point of breaking.

"We analyze the wing for how much load the structure can bear and when and where it will break," Bair said. "The failure loads are equivalent to more than 150 percent of the maximum load we ever expect these wings to see in service, even in the event of an extreme emergency."

In addition to testing the strength of the wing, Boeing will use the test structure to validate the repair methods that have been developed for the materials being used on the 787.

The upper and lower surface panels and the spars of the wing are made entirely of the same composite material being used on the fuselage. The wing ribs are monolithic aluminum structures, each machined from a single piece of aluminum plate. "Because the design is all-new, we feel it is important to get early test results," said Bair. "This test article will help us to refine our final designs and ensure we minimize the chance for surprises during the full-scale testing."

Structure representing the engine nacelle fittings and the main landing gear fittings, as well as other attachments; have also been added to the structure to allow testing of the joints of these structural elements.

It took approximately 18 months to build the test fixture and all of the associated structure. Testing begins in August.

Toulouse July 17, 2006 - Airbus’ new President and CEO, Christian Streiff, confirmed today Airbus’ commitment to its customers and future business growth and presented a whole new family of aircraft, the A350 XWB, for Extra Wide Body, Extra Comfort, Extra Efficiency and going the Extra mile for customers.

The new family will consist of four passenger versions and one freighter, completing the Airbus long-range product for the 21st century with the most modern and technologically advanced products. Increased range, increased speed, enhanced passenger comfort and the best economics will make the A350 XWB a reference for the future.

"I want this company to get back to its basics: Airbus’ success has been based on the enormous courage it took to introduce the latest technologies, and on strong customer orientation with a spirit of always delivering more than expected. I want to keep this Airbus way of working, but on top be focussed 100 percent on orderly execution and reliability", said Airbus’ President and CEO Christian Streiff. He added: "Based on previous lessons learnt, the A350 XWB brings Airbus fully back into the game and will be a success. A success for customers, shareholders and all other stakeholders in Airbus."

The A350-800 seats 270 passengers in a spacious three-class configuration, the A350-900 can accommodate 314 and the A350-1000 is designed for a capacity of 350. These three versions will have a range of 8500 NM and a cruise speed of Mach 0.85. Entry into service for the A350-900 is foreseen for 2012. Beyond this, the A350-900R will take the range even further as an ultra long-range aircraft. A freighter version, the A350-900F will complete the family.

A generation beyond existing aircraft in this category, passengers on board the A350 XWB will benefit from a wider cross section, allowing for wider seats, wider aisles and more head and shoulder clearance. 20 percent cabin humidity and wider panoramic windows will further enhance the passenger experience.

Taking advantage of the most modern technology developed for the A380, the A350 XWB will offer the most advanced interactive cockpit with a head-up display, a dual integrated standby instrument system, a vertical display, on board information, airport navigation system and the brake to vacate function.

The latest new generation engines will make it the most fuel efficient aircraft in this category with up to 30 percent advantage over current existing aircraft and six percent over future aircraft in development. It also offers the quietest aircraft in the sky with low noise and low emissions, responding to the most stringent environmental requirements. QC1 for departure and QC 0.5 for arrival will make it a most friendly neighbor.

Madrid July 17, 2006 - Citic Offshore Helicopter Co. Ltd. (COHC) and Eurocopter announce the signing of a contract for the supply of two EC225 helicopters at the Farnborough International Airshow. COHC is the largest offshore helicopter operator in Asia.The EC225, which is the most advanced version in this twin-engine, medium-weight helicopter family, has an initial takeoff weight of 11,000 kg - or 11,200 kg with a sling load.

The helicopter is designed for passenger transport, especially in the offshore and VIP sectors, and for search and rescue operations in the public domain.

These aircraft will be delivered at the end of 2007, and will be the first EC225s to be equipped with auxiliary pod tanks offering a radius of action greater than 250 NM for public passenger transport missions (including the regulatory fuel reserves) while maintaining the 19-passenger nominal capacity.

As the first EC225s in offshore configuration to be introduced in China, these aircraft will strengthen the COHC fleet - which already includes 10 AS 332 L1 Super Pumas, five EC 155 B and B1s, and five AS 365 Dauphins – and will consolidate the company’s position as the leader on the Chinese oil & gas market.

The EC225 features a new 5-bladed, Spheriflex-design main rotor, a reinforced main gearbox, new engines, and an innovative integrated piloting and display system.

These new proven technologies have improved performances (speed, maneuverability), comfort (vibration, noise) and flight safety – qualities that are particularly appreciated by all the crews and passengers who have already flown on the helicopter.

This first order for the EC225 from COHC confirms Eurocopter’s supremacy on the heavy helicopter market in China, in the 10 metric ton class. "This year, we have received two major orders for the EC225 Super Puma in China: one from the Chinese Ministry of Transport, to cover its sea rescue requirements, and the other from the biggest Chinese offshore operator," comments Mr. Norbert Ducrot, the Eurocopter Asia-Pacific Senior Vice President.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - The GEnx engine continues to accumulate outstanding performance results during its development testing.

The FETT (first engine to test) occurred in March with the GEnx engine reaching 80,500 pounds (358 kN) of standard day sea-level takeoff thrust in the first two days of testing. The engine completed its first phase of testing in May and accumulated more than 100 hours and more than 145 starts, including single Variable Frequency Starter Generator starts well within Boeing's 787 requirements. This engine is currently being re-built for additional testing that will begin this month.

The first of two full-scale composite fan case/fan blade-out rig tests was completed in May. A production fan disk, composite fan blades and composite fan case were used. The highly successful test showed the composite fan case contained the released blade. A second full-scale fan blade-out rig test is scheduled for later this year, using a complete production fan module and flight inlet. The full-engine fan blade-out test for certification is scheduled for next year.

The second GEnx development engine began testing last month at GE's outdoor test facility near Peebles, Ohio. The engine will undergo detailed emission and acoustic assessments, operability testing and cyclic endurance testing. The third GEnx engine will start testing this month for vibration endurance certification. By the end of the year, seven GEnx engines will go to test.

The GEnx engine is scheduled to certify at maximum takeoff thrust of 75,000 pounds (334 kN) in 2007, with entry into service in 2008 on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. By entry into service, the engine's maturation program will accumulate more than 15,000 cycles, and a total of 50,000 cycles before the first scheduled shop visit.

With almost 600 engines on firm order from 17 customers, the GEnx is GE's best-selling commercial aircraft engine on new long-range, wide-body aircraft. The value of the engines sold is more than $8 billion.

The GEnx is based on the highly successful GE90 architecture. It will succeed GE's CF6 engine family, which is the most reliable and best-selling engine on wide-body aircraft. The GEnx provides significantly better specific fuel consumption and payload performance than the CF6.

The GEnx engine is the world's only jet engine with both a front fan case and fan blades made of composites, which provide for greater engine durability, weight reduction and lower operating costs. The fan blades will utilize GE90 composite technology that has performed well, with no routine on-wing maintenance required and no in-service issues for more than a decade. The GEnx will operate with 18 fan blades (50 percent fewer than the CF6) at noise levels lower than any other large GE commercial engine. The GEnx also features a new combustor for efficient fuel mixing prior to ignition, resulting in significantly lower oxides of nitrogen (NOx) levels.

The GEnx is part of GE's "ecomagination" product portfolio--GE's commitment to develop new, cost-effective technologies that enhance customers' environmental and operating performance.

Fort Worth July 17, 2006 - A prestigious international aviation award for "Executive Leadership" has been won by American Airlines Chairman and CEO Gerard Arpey. The winners of the 2006 Airline Strategy Awards were announced before a distinguished audience of senior executives from the international air transport industry in London last night on the eve of the Farnborough Air Show.

The awards are organized by leading international aviation management publication, Airline Business. In addition to Executive Leadership the awards cover five other categories: Finance, Marketing, Operations, Technology, and Regional & Low Cost.

The award for Executive Leadership recognizes the airline executive who has demonstrated outstanding strategic thinking and leadership over the past year, including qualities such as a strong team leadership, success in business transformation and restructuring, establishing a clear corporate vision, and setting an innovative strategic direction. "As one of the judges put it -- Gerard Arpey has done a remarkable job in an almost impossible industry environment," said Mark Pilling, Airline Business editor.

"Any credit for the effectiveness of American's strategy must go to the front line employees of our airline," said Arpey. "Our employees have learned, adapted, and worked incredibly hard to save our company, and hopefully -- though we still have a lot of work to do -- position us for a bright future."

Jet Airways Orders 737-800 Blended Winglets Order Makes Jet Airways India's Largest Operator of Aviation Partners Boeing Blended Winglet(TM) Enhanced 737NGs

Seattle July 17, 2006 - Jet Airways, India's premier low-cost carrier and one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, has made an important commitment to Aviation Partners Boeing patented* Blended Winglet Technology. The carrier will take delivery of 10 Blended Winglet Shipsets, as Buyer Furnished Equipment (BFE), with 737-800s deliveries with the last delivery in October 2007.

"With this landmark sale to highly-respected Jet Airways, we've covered almost every continent with our product," says Aviation Partners Boeing Vice President of Sales Patrick LaMoria. "Airline operators the world over -- from Asia to Australia, North America, Africa, South America and Europe -- are enjoying significant economic and performance benefits with Blended Winglet Technology. At this time, we are still looking for our first operator based in Antarctica!"

Specific benefits for Jet Airways include annual fuel savings projected to be in excess of 100,000 gallons per aircraft as well as improved range capability for planned international expansion.

Blended Winglet Equipped 737-800s, in Jet Airways' distinctive blue livery with a yellow sun gleaming on the tailfins, will expand international markets of the Delhi-based carrier to Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore.

"Jet Airways will enjoy measurable economic benefits and improved long- haul performance with Blended Winglets," says Aviation Partners Boeing Sales Director Christopher Stafford. "Having a premier carrier like Jet Airways operating our product will give visibility to Blended Winglet Technology in the region and will, we anticipate, inspire other carriers in the region to acquire Performance Enhanced Next Generation 737s."

Today, over 1150 Boeing aircraft are flying with Blended Winglets and more than 50% of the Boeing 737-700/800 world feet is now equipped with Blended Winglet Technology. Blended Winglets improve range by up to 5%, save fuel, boost performance, reduce engine maintenance cost and provide important environmental benefits.

Lagos July 17, 2006 - North American Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of World Air Holdings, Inc., today launched scheduled service between Lagos, Nigeria and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. The inaugural flight departed Lagos after special ceremonies at Murtala Muhammed Airport. North American, which is the only US airline operating nonstop scheduled service between Africa and the United States, now offers three weekly round-trip flights between Lagos and New York with Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.

"We are grateful for the support we have received from the government and the business community in Nigeria," said Rob Binns, chief marketing officer, during the inaugural ceremonies.

"Lagos is the third African city served by North American, in addition to Accra, Ghana and Banjul, The Gambia. We are confident this convenient nonstop service will be appreciated by many customers who wish to travel between the United States and Nigeria."

Alaska Airlines Announces New Nonstop Service Between San Francisco and Mexican Resort Destination of Cancun

Seattle July 17, 2006 - Alaska Airlines will offer new nonstop service between San Francisco International Airport and the Mexican resort destination of Cancun starting this fall. Cancun will become the fifth Mexican destination Alaska serves directly from San Francisco. The airline also offers nonstop flights from San Francisco to Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ixtapa/Zihuatenejo.

The San Francisco-Cancun flights went on sale today following US Department of Transportation (DOT) approval last week of the new service. Flights will operate seasonally during Cancun's peak travel season, beginning Oct. 28 and continuing through the end of April. Initially the airline will offer nonstop service three days a week.

"This new nonstop flight to Cancun gives Bay Area residents yet another option to take advantage of Alaska's award-winning service on the way to the beach resorts of Mexico," said Brad Walker, Alaska's director of leisure marketing. "As Cancun's popularity continues to grow and as post-hurricane tourism there rebounds, we're pleased to add this route highly recommended by tour operators and travel agents."

To inaugurate the new service, Alaska is offering introductory one-way fares for service between San Francisco and Cancun of $129. Reservations and tickets are available now at alaskaair.com or by calling (800) ALASKAAIR. Customers must book and purchase their tickets by Aug. 31, 2006, and travel by Dec. 19, 2006. Additional restrictions apply for introductory fares.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Pratt & Whitney, a United Technologies Corp. company, was selected by Cathay Pacific Airways of Hong Kong to power its new fleet of six Boeing 747- 400ERF aircraft. Cathay Pacific signed the agreement with Pratt & Whitney last month in Hong Kong.

The deal includes 24 PW4062A installation engines and three spare engines. Its value exceeds $300 million at list prices.

"Pratt & Whitney is providing us with an economical and very reliable engine for our new fleet," said Derek Cridland, engineering director of Cathay Pacific.

"We are absolutely delighted that Cathay Pacific Airways has chosen Pratt & Whitney to power these new 747-400ERF aircraft with our PW4062A engines," said Steve Heath, president of Pratt & Whitney Commercial Engines. "Our PW4000 engines are an excellent choice of power for these widebody aircraft. Pratt & Whitney is extremely proud to do business with Cathay Pacific Airways, and we are committed to exceeding their expectations."

The PW4062A engine is the highest thrust PW4000 engine available on the 747. It provides exceptional reliability, competitive fuel performance and excellent environmental characteristics. Today, more than 2,700 PW4000 family engines are in service with 90 million hours of cumulative service experience.

Cathay Pacific is also purchasing second-hand 747-400s, the majority of which are powered by PW4000 engines. These aircraft are entering service either as passenger aircraft or as converted freighters under a previously announced deal with Boeing.

Pratt & Whitney has more than 17,000 aircraft engines in service with hundreds of airlines around the world. Additionally, Pratt & Whitney is a leading partner in two joint venture companies to manufacture commercial aircraft engines: the International Aero Engines (IAE) V2500, which operates on the Airbus A320 family of aircraft, and the Engine Alliance (EA) GP7200 engine, FAR 33 certified on the new Airbus A380.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Pratt & Whitney Global Service Partners, a United Technologies Corp. company, has marked a major milestone with the overhaul of its 300th V2500 engine at its Columbus Engine Center facility in Columbus, Ga., USA.

The Columbus Engine Center inducted its first V2500 engine in 2002 and was quickly named the company's V2500 engine overhaul center of excellence. Today, the Columbus Engine Center is North America's leading provider of V2500 engine overhaul.

"We're very proud to reach this important milestone for the company," said Mike Mahonski, general manager of the Pratt & Whitney Columbus Engine Center. "The Columbus Engine Center has the skills and capability to provide the best maintenance for these great engines, and the market is responding. Today we serve customers who are based around the world and we project to grow by 8 to 10 percent each year for the next five years."

The Columbus Engine Center was originally established in 1996 to overhaul JT8D engines. It transitioned to V2500 engine overhaul in 2002 as soon as the V2500 line was established.

Pratt & Whitney Global Service Partners has a second V2500 overhaul center in Christchurch, New Zealand.

International Aero Engines, a multinational company in which Pratt & Whitney is a leading shareowner, manages the development and production of the V2500 engine. The IAE V2500 engine powers the Airbus A319, A320 and A321, the Airbus Corporate Jetliner and the Boeing MD-90 aircraft.

Global Service Partners, Pratt & Whitney's maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services business, is an industry leader in customer solutions and service excellence. It has more than 500 aviation customers served by a worldwide network of 24 overhaul and repair facilities capable of servicing all Pratt & Whitney engines, as well as V2500 and CFM56(R) engines.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Orenburg Airlines has awarded Pratt & Whitney, a United Technologies Corp. company, a five-year, exclusive Maintenance Service Agreement (MSA) for CFM maintenance on up to five Boeing 737 aircraft. The estimated value of this award is $10 million USD. The work will be performed at the Pratt & Whitney Norway Engine Center at Stavanger Airport in Norway.

This is the first exclusive CFM56(R) engine award between Pratt & Whitney and a Russian customer.

"We are delighted that Orenburg Airlines has chosen Pratt & Whitney Global Service Partners to maintain its CFM56(R) engines," said Jim Keenan, senior vice president and general manager, Pratt & Whitney Global Service Partners. "We believe the Norway Engine Center's highly competitive turnaround times and high-quality maintenance services were important to achieving this vote of confidence. We are looking forward to partnering with this important airline and expanding our presence in the Russian CIS region."

Global Service Partners, Pratt & Whitney's engine services business, is an industry leader in customer solutions and service excellence. It has more than 500 aviation customers served by a worldwide network of 24 overhaul and repair facilities capable of servicing all Pratt & Whitney's engines, as well as the V2500 and CFM56(R) engines. In addition to overhaul and repair services, customers count on Global Service Partners to provide on-wing repair services, advanced engine monitoring and diagnostics, competitive engine lease programs and custom engine service programs.

Eagan MN July 17, 2006 - Northwest Airlines said today that it has reached a tentative agreement with its flight attendants union that allows it to realize the labor cost savings needed from that employee group.

"Over the past week, we have been in virtually around the clock negotiations with the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA)," said Doug Steenland, president and chief executive officer. "We are pleased to have reached this tentative agreement that achieves the required $195 million in annual cost savings from our flight attendants."

On July 6, the National Mediation Board announced that Northwest flight attendants voted to have the AFA-CWA replace the Professional Flight Attendants Association (PFAA) as the flight attendants' bargaining organization.

Northwest expects that flight attendants will complete their contract ratification vote on this tentative agreement on July 31.

Northwest has ratified agreements on permanent wage and benefit reductions with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), Aircraft Technical Support Association (ATSA), the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU), and the Northwest Airlines Meteorologists Association (NAMA). Two rounds of salaried and management employee pay and benefit cuts have also been instituted and the needed aircraft maintenance employee labor cost savings have been achieved.

Since beginning its restructuring process in September of last year, Northwest has made steady progress on its plan to realize $2.5 billion in annual business improvements in order to return the company to profitability on a sustained basis.

NWA Flight Attendants Reach Tentative Agreement

Minneapolis July 17, 2006 - After a week of intense bargaining and a final, marathon session, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA- CWA) and Northwest Airlines reached a new tentative agreement early this morning. Negotiators reached the agreement in time to avoid rejection of the existing flight attendant contract, as had been authorized by the bankruptcy court.

"With the airline in bankruptcy, this deal was always going to be about survival," said Mollie Reiley, Northwest Interim Master Executive Council (MEC) President. "We left no stone unturned and have made a significant difference together, but this is not a day that we celebrate. We have an agreement that will give flight attendants hope for the future and one that allows us to fight another day."

Flight attendants voted down a previous tentative agreement by an overwhelming margin. AFA-CWA, who was elected as the new union for the Northwest flight attendants less than 10 days ago, went to work immediately, restarting negotiations that led to this tentative agreement.

"Our flight attendants rightfully demanded to see improvements in the terms of the previous tentative agreement," said Reiley. "We have addressed the areas that caused the greatest concern in order to make this agreement one that we can live with today and build upon in future better times at Northwest Airlines."

The tentative agreement will next be submitted to the Northwest MEC. The MEC, made up of local presidents from each base in the Northwest system, decides whether to accept the tentative agreement and send it out for membership ratification. That meeting will take place in the next few days.

London July 17, 2006 - Continental Airlines has won the Operations award at the Airline Strategy Awards 2006. The awards are given by Airline Business magazine to recognize excellence in the airline boardroom.

Mark Moran, Continental's executive vice president-operations, accepted the award on behalf of the airline at a ceremony in London last night.

The judges, comprising leading figures from the aviation industry, said Continental was selected for a combination of reasons, including the excellent operation it has developed at its two main hubs: Houston and New York/Newark. The judges said that the way the carrier has organized and managed these hubs in the face of some tough challenges was impressive, including managing the natural disasters that befell the Gulf Coast region in 2005. It had successfully managed the continued strategic development of its well- diversified global route network, a major revamp of its regional flying and strong traffic growth. Moreover, the judges believed that the carrier's strategy in restructuring its technical operations by in-sourcing an increasing amount of maintenance work was a bold move that defied some conventional industry wisdoms and one that deserved recognition.

"I am happy to accept this honor on behalf of the entire Operations team -- and, indeed, all 42,000 Continental employees around the world," said Moran. "It is recognition of how we have worked together successfully to meet the many and varied operational challenges of the past year."

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Pratt & Whitney Global Service Partners, a United Technologies Corp. company, will soon offer its innovative EcoPower(SM) engine wash services at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam with Martinair as its European launch customer.

Pratt & Whitney concluded a pilot program with Martinair in May, where Martinair's fleet of PW4000 engines was washed with the EcoPower service. Upon successful completion of this pilot program, the Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, where Martinair is headquartered, was selected as Pratt & Whitney's first European EcoPower service center location. Pratt & Whitney expects to provide EcoPower engine washes to Martinair's entire fleet as well as to other airlines that fly into Schiphol Airport.

"The EcoPower pilot program met all of our desired results, and we are very happy with how well it cleans our engines," said Paul Horstink, vice president Maintenance & Engineering at Martinair. "We now plan to clean all of our engines regularly with this new method, being the first airline in the Netherlands to take this environmentally friendly approach."

The engine washing process is a closed-loop, environmentally friendly system that uses atomized water to wash aircraft engines. Not only does the system avoid potentially harmful run-off from the washing process, but it also is more effective and much faster than traditional engine washing processes. EcoPower improves engine performance and extends time on wing for operators of Pratt & Whitney, GE, IAE, CFMI and Rolls Royce engines. EcoPower wash can reduce fuel burn by as much as 1 percent and increase engine EGT (exhaust gas temperature) margin by as much as 15 degrees C.

"EcoPower is one of several environmentally responsive services provided by Pratt & Whitney," said Anupam Bhargava, general manager, Line Maintenance Services. "We are focusing on introducing clean technologies for aerospace manufacturing, repair and maintenance that lower customer cost with little or no environmental impact."

Since EcoPower was established in 2005 at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York and LAX Airport in Los Angeles, more than 450 washes have been performed for more than 20 customers on 20 different engine models at 14 locations worldwide.

Global Service Partners, Pratt & Whitney's maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services business, is an industry leader in customer solutions and service excellence. It has more than 500 aviation customers served by a worldwide network of 24 overhaul and repair facilities capable of servicing all Pratt & Whitney engines, as well as V2500 and CFM56(R) engines.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Pratt & Whitney, a United Technologies Corp. company, completed a pilot program this month with Asiana Airlines, in which the company provided EcoPower engine wash service on 84 CF6-80C2, PW4000 and V2500 engines.

"We found the EcoPower engine wash to be quick, economical and environmentally friendly," said Jae-Hoon Ryoo, senior manager, Powerplant Management for Asiana Airlines. "We expect to see our engines run more efficiently, which will keep them on wing longer and cost less to operate." Asiana Airlines, based in Korea, has connections spanning the five seas and six continents.

"We are thrilled to provide Asiana Airline with this unique EcoPower service," said Anupam Bhargava, general manager, Line Maintenance Services. "EcoPower is an environmentally responsive way to help airlines keep their engines on-wing longer."

The engine washing process is a closed-loop, environmentally friendly system that uses atomized water to wash aircraft engines. Not only does the system avoid potentially harmful run-off from the washing process, but it also is more effective and much faster than traditional engine washing processes. EcoPower improves engine performance and extends time on wing for operators of Pratt & Whitney, GE, IAE, CFMI and Rolls Royce engines. EcoPower wash can reduce fuel burn by as much as 1 percent and increase engine EGT (exhaust gas temperature) margin by as much as 15 degrees C.

Since EcoPower was established in 2005 at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York and LAX Airport in Los Angeles, more than 450 washes have been performed for more than 20 customers on 20 different engine models at 14 locations worldwide.

Global Service Partners, Pratt & Whitney's maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services business, is an industry leader in customer solutions and service excellence. It has more than 500 aviation customers served by a worldwide network of 24 overhaul and repair facilities capable of servicing all Pratt & Whitney engines, as well as V2500 and CFM56(R) engines.

Sensis ASDE-X Safety Logic Receives FAA In-Service Decision

East Syracuse NY July 17, 2006 - The Federal Aviation Administration has reached an In-Service Decision (ISD) for the Safety Logic function of the Sensis Airport Surface Detection Equipment, Model X system (ASDE-X) at Orlando International Airport. The ISD clears the way for the deployment and operational use of Safety Logic at other ASDE-X airports. Safety Logic detects potential aircraft and vehicle collision situations on the airport surface and alerts controllers.

"Safety Logic mitigates the risk of runway incursions by further enhancing the situational awareness provided by ASDE-X," said Marc Viggiano, president of Sensis Air Traffic Systems.

Safety Logic analyzes aircraft and vehicle movement to detect potential collision situations on the approach corridor and the airport surface. The function provides detection and alerting on a wide range of potential collision situations such as when two aircraft are moving toward each other in a potential head on situation, landing or departing on a closed runway. Safety Logic detects up to 32 different incursion scenarios.

"Effective conflict avoidance relies on the ability to rapidly convey that a potential collision situation exists and the details about the situation," said Marc Viggiano. "Sensis Safety Logic provides this ability."

Once a potential collision situation is identified, Safety Logic alerts controllers with both visual and audible alarms. The air traffic controller's display identifies the callsign of each aircraft or vehicle, the runway on which they are located and a description of the violation. Additionally, a tone or voice message is issued so that the controller can take immediate action. Safety Logic can be configured to accommodate changes in airport operations due to weather, wind direction, construction, and other local conditions.

Under the ASDE-X program, the FAA is deploying the system at 35 of the nation's airports. The FAA will deploy Safety Logic to all new ASDE-X installations and retrofit airports at which ASDE-X is operational.

Finnair Orders 757-200 Blended Winglet(TM) Systems

Seattle July 17, 2006 - Finnair has placed 7 firm orders, plus 2 options, for Aviation Partners Boeing Blended Winglet Systems. Installations, which are likely to be performed by Finnair Technical Services in Helsinki, will begin in October 2006 and complete August 2007.

With fuel savings of up to 250,000 gallons per aircraft per year, Finnair's Blended Winglet payback will be around 2 years for fuel savings only. Additional performance benefits of Aviation Partners Boeing's Visible Technology include more than 200-nm additional range capability plus important environmental benefits, including significantly reduced emissions of carbon monoxide and nitrous oxides.

"While operating their 757-200s at some of the highest utilizations and longest stage lengths in the industry, Finnair can look forward to saving more fuel with Blended Winglet Technology than most other 757 operators in the world," says Aviation Partners Boeing Sales Director Troy Brekken. "Fuel savings, combined with measurable performance benefits, will allow Finnair to get more out of their already popular 757-200s."

Finnair President and CEO Jukka Hienonen, commenting on tough market conditions for world airlines, identified high fuel prices as one of the most significant challenges facing the industry. "Our approach, to improve operations, has been to invest in aircraft and technology which enable us to operate at the best possible fuel efficiency," stated Hienonen.

Aviation Partners Boeing's Blended Winglet program for the 757-200 has been an unqualified success with market saturation occurring at an even faster pace than on 737-700/800 programs.

"We're selling 757-200 Blended Winglet Systems faster than we can build them and production is sold out until Q2 2007," says Vice President of Sales Patrick LaMoria. "We have now sold over 2,000 Blended Winglet Systems in the last 5 years and expect to double that number over the next couple of years."

Over 50 757-200s are now flying with Aviation Partners Boeing patented* Blended Winglets. Aviation Partners Boeing is currently working with prospective launch customers to also certify Blended Winglets for the 737-900 and 767-300ER.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 (RIAN) - The family of new Russian Regional Jet (RRJ) aircraft has been renamed Sukhoi SuperJet-100, the head of aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi said Monday.

Mikhail Pogosyan said, "We will shortly present our new aircraft; it is now time to give it a new, more marketable name - Sukhoi SuperJet-100."

The RRJ project is a family of medium-range passenger aircraft developed by Sukhoi in cooperation with major American and European aviation corporations, including Boeing, Snecma, Thales, Messier Dowty, Liebherr Aerospace, and Honeywell.

The family of RRJ aircraft is represented by the models RRJ-60, RRJ-75, RRJ-95, with seating capacity of 60, 75 and 95, respectively.

The maiden flight has been set for November 2006; RRJs are to go into service in late 2007-early 2008.

Sukhoi plans to produce at least 700 RRJs, and intends to sell 35% of them to North America, 25% to Europe, 10% to Latin America, and 7% to Russia and China.

The RRJ market until 2023 is estimated at 5,400-5,600 units, and valued at $100 billion.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Rolls-Royce expects continuing, strong growth throughout Asia Pacific to underpin global demand for 51,000 new commercial aircraft, ranging from business jets to high-capacity airliners, over the next 20 years.

Unveiling its updated civil market forecast on the opening day of the UK’s Farnborough International Airshow, Rolls-Royce said the 114,000 jet engines required to power the global fleet’s growth would have a potential value of $600 billion.

The company believes that high fuel prices will drive airlines to focus even harder on operating cost benefits of highly efficient, new-generation jetliners.

Rolls-Royce, which produces an independent forecast using a wide range of industry sources, expects air traffic demand in Asia Pacific to grow at an average of 6.6 per cent year-on-year throughout the forecast period.

Within this estimate, growth in China over the next 20 years is anticipated to be around 8 per cent per annum. Since the Outlook was last updated in March 2005, over 150 passenger jets have been delivered to Chinese operators. Demand from China is expected to total 6,500 engines valued at $65 billion through to 2026.

India continues to be recognized as a major, emerging force in commercial aviation. India is included within the Asia Pacific forecast total, but is expected to provide a potential market in its own right for at least 1,600 engines in the next two decades.

The North American market, although growing more slowly than other regions, remains the largest market for single-aisle aircraft and business jets. Much of the demand is underpinned by the need to replace existing aircraft, giving a market for around 20,000 engines for mainline and regional aircraft, and 30,000 engines for business jets – worth a total of $160 billion.

Rolls-Royce re-iterates its view that fleets in the CIS and Russia will produce significant growth, creating a 20-year demand for 3,000 engines. Although used aircraft are expected to feature widely in the business mix, the growth will nevertheless have the effect of generating liquidity in the wider market.

The forecast anticipates the single aisle, 110-180 seat segment will create the largest unit demand with anticipated demand for 29,000 engines worth $185 billion.

The largest sector by value, however, is viewed as that involving small and medium twin-aisle aircraft of 250-350 seats, triggering engine sales worth $230 billion, with 40 per cent of the demand coming from Asia.

Rolls-Royce also expects to see strong and growing demand for aircraft in the 400 seats plus category. The Outlook points to a potential $85 billion engine market in this sector, including those needed to power the growing cargo fleet.

Rapid growth in the large business aircraft sector is seen as a major factor within the corporate jet market, which is expected to generate a requirement for 51,000 engines with a value of $70 billion.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - The Rolls-Royce Trent 900 is rapidly building maturity during flight testing on the Airbus A380. Test engines have now logged over 6,000 flying hours either on-wing or on development test beds, accumulating more than 23,500 engine cycles.

During the Farnborough International Airshow 2006, from 17-22 July, a full size Trent 900 will form the centerpiece of the Rolls-Royce exhibit at Hall G, Stand 17, while a Trent-powered A380 will be taking part in the flying displays.

Mike Terrett, President – Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, said: "We’re now focused on readying the Trent 900 for the first customer delivery later this year and we’re extremely pleased by the engine’s performance. The combination of ongoing flight testing and ground running ensures that we’re continuing to gather valuable data ahead of commercial operations."

The Trent 900 powers all four A380s currently in the test program, as well as the first aircraft for launch customer Singapore Airlines (SIA), which will be delivered later this year.

Aircraft noise certification testing is due to be completed during the summer. Development flight test noise data indicates the engine will easily meet the stringent QC1 and QC2 limits in use at airports including London Heathrow – one of the A380’s early destinations for SIA.

Tests that have been completed so far include cold weather and hot and high performance, and taking the aircraft beyond the altitudes and speeds it will ever see in service, down to the minimum speeds needed to keep the A380 airborne. The results have been excellent and confirmed performance predictions, leaving the Trent 900 on track to achieve all its key targets.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines have been chosen by International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC), the world's largest aircraft leasing company, to power up to 20 firm and option Boeing 787 Dreamliners in a deal potentially worth $600 million at list prices.

In addition, the engines will be offered to ILFC’s lessees with TotalCare® services agreements, offering lifetime protection for each powerplant, and which are portable between ILFC's customers.

ILFC is scheduled to receive the first of its Trent-powered Boeing 787s in 2010.

Mike Terrett, President – Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, said: "The versatility of the Trent 1000-powered 787 is a good strategic fit for ILFC due to the excellent economics it offers across a range of operations. It gives their customers extensive potential for their route networks, whilst at the same time providing ILFC with a flexible solution to fit many customers’ needs."

Three Trent 1000s are now involved in ground testing following the engine’s initial run, which took place on schedule in February. Three further development engines are on build and nearing completion.

The Trent 1000 is the launch engine for all marks of the Boeing 787 and takes to the air for the first time on the company’s Boeing 747 flying test bed in the first quarter of next year. Engine certification will be achieved next summer, followed by the Trent’s maiden flight on the 787 Dreamliner. Entry into service with launch customer ANA (All Nippon Airways) is scheduled for mid 2008.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - Rolls-Royce has concluded a preliminary agreement to supply a next-generation Trent engine for the new A350 XWB twinjet being offered by Airbus.

The engine, the sixth variant in the Trent series, would be capable of powering all versions of the aircraft currently proposed.

Mike Terrett, President – Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce said: "As a result of positive discussions with Airbus, we have concluded a preliminary framework agreement to make a new member of the Trent family available on the A350 XWB.

"Establishing a position on this program is important for Rolls-Royce. It broadens our excellent working relationship with Airbus through a significant new venture, and provides a strong platform as we aim to maintain our position as the leading engine supplier for the new-generation widebody market."

Engine design would again be based around the three-shaft architecture unique to all Rolls-Royce large engines, used throughout the Trent family as well as the earlier RB211 series.

The new program would be subject to board approval.

Farnborough July 17, 2006 - From 17 till 23 July Farnborough airport located in the suburbs of the British capital hosts on its exhibition grounds the 45th International Aerospace Show - Farnborough International 2006. This Show has been running since 1932 under the auspices of the Society of British Aerospace Companies, and is rightly reputed as one of the most prestigious and important aerospace exhibitions in the world. According to evaluations made by the Organizing Committee of Farnborough International 2006, this year is to see over 1,350 exhibitors coming from more than 30 countries.

Russia, a traditional participant in Farnborough International air shows, presents aerospace products and services offered for export by more than 60 enterprises and organizations. Guests and exhibitors at the show can admire breathtaking aerobatics performed by a unique super-maneuverable MiG-29M multi-role fighter with thrust vector control (MiG-29OVT) in the skies over the London suburb.

The Russian exposition organized by Rosoboronexport State Corporation follows the latest trends of the world aerospace market, demonstrating high scientific and production potential of the national aerospace industry. This year’s exposition spans over an area of some 1,400 sq. m., the largest ever rented by Russia throughout the whole history of its participation in the show. It shows models, mockups, posters and promotional materials for a full range of modern aircraft and helicopters, airborne weapons, air defense systems, dual and civil-purpose space technologies.

The world-renown Sukhoi and MiG multi-role fighters make up the core of the exposition. Visitors will be able to familiarize themselves with unique tactical and technical characteristics of the Su-30MK super-maneuverable multi-role fighter accountable for a considerable part of Russian aircraft exports. Contracts on delivery of these advanced aircraft to foreign countries are being successfully fulfilled. The Indian Su-30MKIs are the only fighters with thrust vector control engines operated by an Air Force these days. The 4th+ generation Sukhoi combat aircraft are represented by the upgraded Su-27 fighter and Su-32 fighter-bomber. Also, visitors will be shown a mockup of the crew cabin for the newest super-maneuverable Su-35 fighter.

MiG type aircraft are represented at Farnborough by the unique MiG-29M lightweight tactical fighter with thrust vector control, MiG-29SMT advanced upgrade, MiG-29K shipborne combat aircraft, MiG-29SE front-line fighter, MiG-31 interceptor, MiG-29UB and shipborne MiG-29KUB combat trainers, as well as MiG-AT dedicated trainer.

Foreign specialists will be undoubtedly interested in the Yak-130 two-seat combat trainer allowing pilots to acquire and master flight handling skills for modern fighters of Su-30/MiG-29 type, as well as their foreign counterparts, such as Mirage 2000, F-16, F-15, Eurofighter, F-22, F-35. The aircraft can be used both for training of flight techniques and for performance of attack missions in low-intensity armed conflicts. The Yak-130 combat trainer has substantially improved export prospects when integrated into an advanced reconnaissance-and-strike system with remotely piloted aerial reconnaissance/target designation vehicle.

Rosoboronexport and helicopter-building enterprises present the entire range of indigenously-built rotary-wing craft together with their onboard and ground support equipment, maintenance and training facilities.

The Mil-type helicopters are represented primarily by the new Mi-28NE ‘Night Hunter’ all-weather attack helicopter, as well as Mi-35, Mi-35P and Mi-35M daytime and day/night combat transport helicopters, Mi-171Sh and Mi-17V-5 military transport helicopters, and finally, Mi-26T heavy-lift, or rather the world’s heaviest-lift, transport helicopter.

The family of the Kamov helicopters on display includes a Ka-50 twin-seat modification optimal for efficient reconnaissance-and-strike missions, Ka-31 radar picket helicopter, and ship-borne Ka-28 ASW and KA-27PS SAR helicopters. Detailed information is provided on the latest light helicopter designs, such as "Ansat" and Ka-226 helicopters, boasting unique flight performance and operational characteristics.

Besides delivery of finished airborne systems and armaments, Rosoboronexport offers upgrading of different aircraft and helicopters supplied earlier by improving their avionic suites, expanding and optimizing arsenals, and enhancing the overall operational performance. Russian aerospace enterprises actively cooperate with European companies, such as BAE Systems, MBDA, Snecma, Thales, SAGEM DS, EADS, Rolls-Royce, Finmeccanica.

Detailed information is available for specialists in airborne missiles and other weaponry, turboshaft and turbojet engines intended for combat aircraft and helicopters, airborne radars and radar attack systems, other types of avionics, navigation, flight control, communications, and life support systems.

By tradition the exposition presents a wide range of Russian-made air defense systems, such as the long-range S-300PMU2, medium-range Buk-M1-2, short-range Tor-M1 and Osa-AKM air defense missile systems, Tunguska-M1 air defense gun-missile system, as well as radars - Nebo-SVU, Protivnik-GE, Kasta-2E2.

Being the world’s leading space technology power, Russia also presents its latest achievements in the areas of information technology, communications, and space exploration.

Rosoboronexport’s transactions connected with space technologies and associated services are steadily gaining importance as regards its cooperation with foreign partners. Contracts on putting into the near-Earth orbit of space vehicles for the United Kingdom, Algeria, Italy, Nigeria, Norway, Turkey, Germany, Sweden, and some other countries, have been successfully completed. Rosoboronexport’s specialists can provide detailed reference data on the entire fleet of Russian space vehicles of light, medium and heavy-lift classes.

Russian exhibitors suppose that their participation in Farnborough International 2006 can give a renewed impetus to the development of production cooperation with foreign states. Plans are set for meetings and talks during the exhibition with the representatives of leading European aerospace companies and delegates of the Middle East and North African, South and South-East Asian, and Latin American countries. Their agendas cover current issues, such as scientific and technical cooperation of Russian enterprises with leading Western manufacturers of aerospace systems and equipment in upgrading the Soviet/Russian legacy aircraft and helicopters, coordination efforts for Russian enterprises adopting aircraft logistic technologies, as well as application of military technologies in the development of effective anti-terrorist aircraft protection systems.

Rosoboronexport State Corporation is confident that the work of the Russian delegation at Farnborough International 2006 air show is to advance mutually beneficial cooperation of the Russian Federation with foreign states in the aerospace domain, as well as broaden research and production horizons for the national aerospace industry.

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