Quincy MA September 14, 2006 - Jets International, a jet technology company offering superior jet charter services, today announced that it had been chosen by Deloitte & Touche USA LLP as one of the Technology Fast 50 Companies in New England. Jets International is ranked as # 15 on the New England Technology Fast 50 winner’s list.

Deloitte's Technology Fast 50 program ranks the 50 fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications, and life sciences companies in each of 16 regions in the United States and Canada. Winners of the U.S. and Canadian Technology Fast 50 programs are then eligible to be entered for consideration in the North American Technology Fast 500, a ranking of the 500 fastest growing companies in North America. Both programs are based on fiscal year revenue growth over five years (2001-2005).

Jets International with net revenues over $1.5 Million in 2001 and approximately $17 Million in 2005 grew 1001% during that period.

"To rank on Deloitte's Technology Fast 50, companies must have phenomenal revenue growth over five years," said Stephen DiPietro, Audit Partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP. "Jets International has proven to be one of the fast-growth success stories in New England, and we applaud their dedication to making their vision a reality."

To qualify for the Technology Fast 50, companies must have had operating revenues of at least $50,000 in 2001 and $5,000,000 in 2005, be headquartered in North America, and be a company that owns proprietary technology or proprietary intellectual property that contributes to a significant portion of the company's operating revenues; or devotes a significant proportion of revenues to the research and development of technology. Using other companies' technology or intellectual property in a unique way does not qualify.

"It's a great honor for us to have been selected as a Technology Fast 50 company," said Nathan McKelvey, President, CEO and Founder of Jets International, "This award is a tribute to our company and our employees, as well as a vote of confidence for our strategic direction."

SAS Cargo to Join Unisys-Operated Cargo Portal Services 

Blue Bell PA September 14, 2006 - Unisys announces that SAS Cargo is joining Unisys-operated Cargo Portal Services (CPS), a leading electronic booking and shipment management service for the air cargo industry. SAS Cargo's participation in CPS will give the company's air cargo clients a free, Web-based facility to manage bookings and track shipments through a neutral portal. SAS Cargo is the eighth carrier worldwide to join the portal.

"We chose CPS because it provides the only portal that can cover our entire global business," said Kenneth Marx, president and CEO of SAS Cargo Group A/S. "We know that our clients want us to be online via a shipment booking and tracking portal, so we look forward to servicing their needs through CPS."

SAS Cargo and Unisys enjoy a longstanding relationship. SAS Cargo uses Unisys Logistics Management System (LMS) and application outsourcing services to manage its air freight logistics operations.

"Unisys and the CPS community welcome SAS Cargo, since they help to lead the adoption of Internet services in the air cargo industry, especially in Europe," said Christopher Shawdon, vice president and partner, Logistics Solutions for Unisys.

Washington September 14, 2006 - U.S. airlines carried 369.5 million scheduled domestic and international passengers on their systems during the first six months of 2006, 0.9 percent more than they did during the same period in 2005, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, a part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), today reported in a release of preliminary data.

A news release summarizing the data may be obtained at www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm. Airline traffic data can be found on the BTS website at TranStats, the Intermodal Transportation Database at http://transtats.bts.gov. Click on "aviation," then on "Air Carrier Statistics (Form 41 Traffic)," then on "T-100 Domestic Market."

Toulouse September 13, 2006 - Juneyao Airlines, a new Chinese private airline headquartered in Shanghai, received its first A319 on 13 September 2006 at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, becoming a new Airbus operator on the Chinese Mainland. The new leased A319 is configured in a two-class layout with eight business class seats, providing comfortable seating for a total of 128 passengers. The aircraft is to make its maiden commercial flight in the coming weeks.

"We are very pleased to welcome the first Airbus A319 joining our fleet. It marks that co-operation between Airbus and our company has entered into a new phase," said Wang Junjin, President of Juneyao Group. "After making extensive comparison between various aircraft models, we finally selected the Airbus A320 family to build our commercial fleet. We believe that the A320 family aircraft will help us offer unmatched comfort to passengers. Moreover, the low operating costs and unique family commonality of the aircraft will ensure a smooth take-off of our business."

Approved by the General Administration of the Civil Aviation of China (CAAC) in June 2005, Juneyao Airlines started business in Shanghai with registered capital of 150 million Yuan. In March 2006, Junyao Airlines signed lease contracts with GE Commercial Aviation Service (GECAS) for eight A320 family aircraft, including two A319's and six A320's. By January 2007, Juneyao Airlines will receive two more A320 family aircraft to serve on several domestic trunk routes connecting Shanghai, Zhengzhou, Taiyuan, Changsha and Sanya.

"We are very proud to welcome Juneyao Airlines as a new Airbus operator in China," said Airbus' President and CEO Christian Streiff. "Selection of the A320 family aircraft, once again, underscores that it is the aircraft of choice for new airlines. We are very glad to see that more private airlines in China have chosen A320 family to kick off their business in recent years. We hope to further develop our co-operation with Juneyao Airlines in the future."

With 40 million flight hours to date, more than 4300 aircraft ordered and over 2,700 aircraft delivered, the A318, A319, A320 and A321 make up the world's best-selling single-aisle aircraft family with more than 170 operators worldwide.

The A319, first delivered in April 1996, continues to prove its versatility, enabling carriers to benefit from its range options and seat layout flexibility. In addition to the standard 124-seat model, which has a range of up to 6,800 km/3,700 NM, Airbus offers an option allowing increased seating efficiency with typically up to 156 seats.

New York September 14, 2006 - British Airways announced today that it is offering online advance registration for the Clear registered traveler program, due to launch at the airline's New York JFK terminal this fall.

The registered traveler program, launching in conjunction with Clear, will give members a more convenient and consistent experience when going through airport security lines. Registered travelers have access to dedicated lanes and are less likely to be selected for secondary searches.

Robin Hayes, executive vice president British Airways the Americas, said, "We are pleased to be offering our customers the first and only facility for the registered traveler program in the New York area. Our terminal at JFK is already a fast terminal to move through, and with this program, it will be even quicker.

In addition, with advance registration now available online, our customers can get a head start on the enrollment process."

Applicants may begin the first part of the enrollment process at www.ba.com/jfkclear. This step is completed online and involves submitting basic biographic information. The second step is carried out at a Clear enrollment station, where an applicant submits biometric images (iris and fingerprints) and identity documentation.

The complete two-stage process may be conducted at a Clear enrollment station, but applicants choosing online enrollment may complete the first stage in advance. After Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approval, members are given a biometric card, which allows them expedited access through dedicated security lanes.

The enrollment station is expected to be rolled out at British Airways' JFK Terminal 7 later this fall, shortly followed by the installation of the Clear registered traveler lane.

Members will pay Clear an annual fee of $79.95 and a separate vetting fee to TSA, expected to be between $27 and $30.

Los Angeles September 14, 2006 - Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has received 12 higher-capacity airfield buses from North American Bus Industries, Inc. (NABI), with a capacity of over 100 passengers that operate on compressed natural gas (CNG).

At a cost of $659,000, each bus has seating for 22 plus standing capacity of 80 with carry-on bags including space for wheelchairs, strollers, etc. There are two wheelchair ramps.

The new higher-capacity airfield buses are needed to accommodate the arrival of new large aircraft, such as the Airbus 380, that will begin service at LAX. Seven international air carriers have announced plans to operate the A-380, starting in the spring of 2007 through 2010. The A-380 can carry between 555 and 800 passengers, depending upon seating configuration.

These new 60-foot-long articulating buses will transport passengers between the terminals and the remote boarding gates more efficiently than using the airport's existing fleet of 20 airfield buses that accommodate 60 to 80 passengers each. These new buses replace five 22-year-old diesel buses that are at the end of their operating service life.

"The new buses are state-of the-art, alternative fuel, ADA compliant, fully air-conditioned and will be useful on and off the airfield if there is a diversion for on-airport activity," said Mark Baskin, a bus operator supervisor. "LAX bus operations logged 659 operations carrying 123,282 passengers in April alone so these buses will more easily accomplish that."

"I believe the low-floor 60-BRT is a unique fit for airfield shuttle service," said Bill Coryell, NABI vice president of Sales. "The low-floor entry at all doors and smooth, quiet ride on these air-conditioned vehicles will ease passenger accessibility and transport to and from remote terminals."

Built in Anniston, Ala., by NABI and driven to the facilities of its regional service division in Ontario, Calif., as part of the company's road test program, the buses were then delivered to LAX.

There are nine security cameras on each bus as an extra security measure for personal safety of the passengers.

Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) is committed to identifying and replacing fossil-fuel vehicles and equipment with alternative-fuel models. LAWA currently operates over 500 alternative-fuel vehicles in its fleet. Alternative fuels include liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), CNG, electricity, solar power and hydrogen fuel cell. All of the buses in this purchase will be powered with CNG and will be configured to comply with access requirements mandated in the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Atlanta September 14, 2006 - Delta Air Lines today announced that Kenneth F. Khoury will join the company as executive vice president and general counsel, currently an open position, effective Sept. 18.

Khoury, 55, was most recently general counsel at Weyerhaeuser, Inc. and brings nearly 30 years of legal expertise to Delta, including leadership positions as vice president and deputy general counsel at Georgia-Pacific Corp.

"We're pleased to have another experienced, well-respected professional join Delta's executive leadership team," said Gerald Grinstein, chief executive officer. "The breadth of Ken's experience during the last three decades will add significant value to Delta as we continue to move forward and emerge as a strong competitor."

A frequent speaker on legal issues and member of the Bar in the states of Georgia, New York and New Jersey, Khoury has also served in senior leadership roles at Shearson Lehman Hutton, Inc. and The Continental Corporation, a financial services company, with responsibility for corporate and securities law.

Khoury graduated with honors from Rutgers College in 1972 and received his law degree from Fordham University in 1977, where he was a member of the Law Review. Khoury resides in Atlanta with his family.

New York September 14, 2006 - JetBlue Airways Corp. today announces that the low-fare carrier has been granted United States government approval to operate nonstop service from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Cancun, Mexico, beginning November 30(b).

JetBlue will kick off this new service by offering a $99(a) introductory fare each way between JFK and Cancun. The airline's regular one-way fares between JFK and Cancun will range from $129 to $349 each way when booked at www.jetblue.com or by calling 1-800-JETBLUE or 8008613372 if calling from Mexico.

JetBlue is also celebrating its inaugural service by offering a $109(a) special sale fare each way between Cancun and the following destinations via connecting service at JFK: Boston, MA; Burlington, VT; Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, NY; Pittsburgh, PA and Washington DC (Dulles). The carrier's regular fares in these markets will range from $149(a) to $399(a) each way.

"I am thankful to the staff at the Department of Transportation for finding JetBlue's application superior to that of other applicants," said JetBlue's founder and CEO David Neeleman. "We couldn't have won this proceeding without the support of our crewmembers and the continued support of our key partners, in particular those who personally urged the Department to consider JetBlue, including Senator Charles Schumer, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Senator Patrick Leahy, Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, Congressman Jim Walsh and Congressman Gregory Meeks. We look forward to bringing our award-winning JetBlue Experience to Mexico."

"This is great news for anyone who thought their chance to sit on a beach this year ended on Labor Day," said Senator Charles Schumer. "College kids and New Yorkers everywhere now have a direct and affordable line to a place where the sun is hot and the only umbrella you need is the one that comes in your beverage."

"Congratulations to JetBlue on opening up another route to and from New York. JetBlue continues to build on its success and we look forward to them opening even more routes, which means more opportunities for people to visit New York and do business here," Senator Clinton said.

"JetBlue's expansion into new routes in Mexico and the Caribbean is great news for the New York traveler," said Rep. Jim Walsh. "JetBlue proves that the airline industry can combine reasonable air fares and strong, accessible service into a quality product."

"With this decision, the Department of Transportation has recognized JetBlue's record of excellence," Rep. Louise Slaughter said. "The expansion of JetBlue's service into the Cancun market means that more customers will be able to benefit from this leading, low-cost airline. It also means a brighter future for a company that has played a key role in bolstering New York's economy. It is a win for JetBlue, a win for New York, and a win for advocates of low fare air service."

"JetBlue continues to meet and exceed the traveling demands of New Yorkers," said Congressman Gregory Meeks. "I welcome JetBlue's new service to Cancun and thank New York's low fare hometown airline for reaffirming JFK Airport's status as the world's premier international gateway."

Burlingame CA September 14, 2006 - Virgin America, a new U.S. start-up airline, has named Dave Pflieger as senior vice president and general counsel. Mr. Pflieger, age 43, previously was the airline's acting general counsel and vice president, operations control center.

Prior to joining Virgin America, Mr. Pflieger was the vice president of operations for Song, Delta Air Lines' low-cost airline. Mr. Pflieger moved to Song from Delta where he had been the director of flight safety and Delta's operations attorney. Before joining Delta in 1998 he was with the prestigious Atlanta law firm of King & Spalding.

"Dave is the rare breed of airline professional who can do it all," said Virgin America CEO Fred Reid. "He understands every aspect of the airline business -- from the boardroom to the bag bins. Then, of course, he also flies the planes. Because of his talent and accomplishments, our whole team is delighted that he has taken the general counsel position."

Mr. Pflieger has more than 18 years of aviation operations and management experience, including service as a Delta pilot. Before becoming an attorney, he flew B-52s and C-130s in the U.S. Air Force, Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard. He graduated in 1985 with a bachelor's degree from the U.S. Naval Academy and earned his law degree from Emory University as well as a Master's degree in business administration from Emory University's Roberto C. Goizueta School of Business. Mr. Pflieger also is a graduate of the University of Southern California School of Engineering Aviation Safety Program.

Irvine CA September 14, 2006 - China Media1 Corp. is pleased to announce that that it has completed the installation of 14 additional scrolling double-sided 10-poster signs at the Arrivals Level of the Shenzhen Baoan International Airport. These signs measure roughly 6 ft x 4.5 ft in dimension and are larger than the previously announced 4.5 ft x 3-ft sign. Due to their locations, these Arrivals level signs command a per poster advertisement value similar to the 8 larger signs located upstairs at the Departures Level. These signs were manufactured by an established scrolling light-box company located in Guangzhou, and China Media1 is pleased with their performance and stability to-date.

Further to our press release of July 13, 2006, the Agricultural Bank of China is now scheduled and committed to advertise on 1 poster space on each of the 14 signs at the Arrivals level. This is in addition to the Departures level contract for 8 signs. The total value of this 1-year contract is about US$800,000. Currently, the combined potential rate card value of our scrolling signs at the Shenzhen Baoan International Airport stands at approximately US$ 10 million per year. In addition, the Airport is still expanding and a new third terminal will be built soon. The Company is currently working with the Airport to pick out new strategic locations for our scrolling signs according to the construction plans for the new terminal.

Boeing Forecasts Continued Strength in Air Cargo Traffic 

Calgary September 14, 2006 - The Boeing Company said that world air cargo growth is expected to expand at an average annual rate of 6.1 percent during the next two decades, with a three-fold increase in worldwide air freight.

The information is included in Boeing's World Air Cargo Forecast 2006/2007, released today at the International Air Cargo Forum and Exposition 2006. Boeing has published the World Air Cargo Forecast, widely acknowledged as the definitive industry forecast of worldwide air cargo traffic growth and freighter aircraft demand, as an individual report since 1986. The new forecast is available here.

"Air cargo markets linked to Asia will continue to lead other markets through 2025, led by the highest growth in intra-Asia and domestic China traffic," said Nicole Piasecki, vice president, Business Strategy & Marketing - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "International air cargo traffic growth will be driven by increased international trade, increased liberalization of air services and the improving technologies that our industry continues to incorporate: increases in lower hold capacity and more fuel-efficient freighters. Cargo tends to lead liberalization, which is a driver of economic growth."

Boeing expects that the growth of Asian air cargo markets will exceed the expectations of the forecast from two years ago, with the domestic Chinese and intra-Asian markets expanding 10.8 percent and 8.6 percent per year, respectively.

In addition, Asia- North America will average 7.1 percent and Europe-Asia will average 6.9 percent. More mature markets, such as North America and intra-Europe, will grow more slowly than the world average, as will routes involving Latin America and the Middle East. Europe-Southwest Asia will experience slightly higher than average growth, at 6.2 percent.

"Although 2005 traffic growth was a bit subdued, due to fuel prices, the long-term outlook is for historical trends to prevail," said Tom Crabtree, regional director, Marketing - Boeing Commercial Airplanes, and a primary forecast author. "Spot jet fuel prices increased 42 percent in 2005 and have continued to increase in 2006, but in spite of these increases, traffic is continuing to grow, experiencing a 3.1 percent increase for the first six months of 2006, compared with 2005."

Overall, Boeing predicts the world freighter fleet will increase to 3,563 airplanes from 1,789 during the 20-year forecast period, with the greatest growth in wide body freighters such as the Boeing 747, 777 and 767. This category ultimately will represent 64 percent of the fleet, compared to 50 percent today, eventually constituting more than 90 percent of total freighter capacity.

Of the 2,983 freighters predicted to join the fleet, 1,209 would be replacements for retired aircraft and 1,774 for growth. More than 75 percent, 2,217 airplanes, will come from passenger/combi-to-freighter modifications, while 766 will be new production freighters.

Crabtree added that Boeing provides the most comprehensive freighter solutions to meet varying market demands. Boeing is the only manufacturer to offer a complete line of new freighters to cover the entire market. Boeing freighters offer the lowest trip and ton-mile cost in every freighter size. For example, the new 777 freighter will allow operators to carry 229,000 lbs. of payload with the lowest trip cost of any large freighter. In addition, Boeing also offers a wide range of passenger-to-freighter and combi-to-freighter conversions for Douglas and Boeing airplane models, teaming with industry leaders to provide innovative conversion solutions to match virtually any air cargo requirement.

Seattle September 14, 2006 - The Boeing Company today confirmed Hainan Airlines' order for 15 Boeing Next-Generation 737 airplanes, completing a 150-airplane order by the China Aviation Supplies Import and Export Group.

Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Shandong Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines and Xiamen Airlines earlier this year placed orders for 65 Boeing Next-Generation 737s that were identified on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries Web site in August.

China Aviation Supplies Import and Export Group originally announced its intentions to order 150 airplanes in November 2005. The first 50 of those Next-Generation 737 airplanes were booked in December 2005 with an additional 20 booked in January 2006.

The orders signed between the eight carriers and Boeing are valued at about $10 billion, based on average list prices. These airplanes are scheduled for delivery between 2006 and 2010.

The 737 is ideally suited for the Chinese market and represents a large portion of the country's fleet. Of the 529 Boeing airplanes in China's fleet, 394 are 737 family aircraft, comprising 41 percent of China's total fleet.

"It is gratifying to partner with Chinese airlines in their quest to achieve profitability and to provide their passengers with reliable, comfortable service," said Rob Laird, vice president, China Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 737, especially the Next-Generation 737, has played an integral role in Chinese aviation."

The Next-Generation 737s fly higher, faster and farther than comparable airplanes, while offering greater fuel efficiency. The 737 is the world's best-selling commercial jet airplane, with more than 6,500 ordered by 236 customers. As of Aug. 31, 2006, 100 customers have placed orders for more than 3,300 Next-Generation 737s; the program has 1,360 unfilled orders with a value of about $91 billion at current list prices.

Seattle September 14, 2006 - The Boeing Company today named Rockwell Collins as the latest partner for GoldCare, the revolutionary lifecycle support solution for the 787 Dreamliner.

"Rockwell Collins supplies more than a quarter of the systems by value onboard the 787, so its leadership in joining GoldCare is a terrific boost," said Bob Avery, Boeing's vice president 787 Services & Support. "GoldCare is a powerful business alternative for airline leaders who want to minimize costs and enhance predictability as they acquire, operate and transition their fleets. We're delighted Rockwell Collins is committing to this new way of helping our customers."

Under GoldCare, Boeing leads and integrates a global team to deliver maintenance, engineering and materials management tasks within a predictable per-flight-hour cost. With maintenance operations and logistics simplified, GoldCare customers can focus on their passengers -- all the while knowing that their airplane assets achieve maximum utilization and are maintained to the highest standards of excellence by Boeing through GoldCare partners.

Rockwell Collins, headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, provides displays, communication and surveillance systems, pilot controls and the core network cabinet for the 787 and under GoldCare will be responsible for ensuring spare parts are available at guaranteed levels of availability, managing the maintenance of parts removed from aircraft and ensuring that equipment reliability is optimized.

"Rockwell Collins is proud to be part of the GoldCare program. This new business model will reduce the risk associated with the cost of operations for the airlines," shares Kent Statler, senior vice president and general manager of Services for Rockwell Collins. "The program aligns Rockwell Collins and Boeing to provide superior customer services around the globe."

Boeing currently offers GoldCare as a strategic business choice for 787 customers, helping them leverage the game-changing innovation of the Dreamliner to reduce introduction and infrastructure costs, minimize financial and operational risk, improve operating costs and simplify maintenance.

Boeing has completed its first technical pilot program for GoldCare, signed its first Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul partner and, including Rockwell Collins, partnered with three major equipment suppliers for systems on the aircraft. Further partnership agreements with suppliers are expected to be completed in 2006.

"We're on schedule with the airplane and with the GoldCare service," said Avery. "Introducing a partner of the caliber of Rockwell Collins brings yet more experience and quality to the team."

GoldCare is Boeing's comprehensive life-cycle management service specially developed for the 787 Dreamliner, offering a new strategic business choice for customers to acquire, operate and transition their fleets. GoldCare offers two levels of service:

GoldCare: A lifecycle management solution offering guaranteed schedule reliability through comprehensive fleet maintenance management and parts support. Boeing uses globally recognized maintenance providers and component suppliers to offer top-tier service and includes the GoldCare Integrated Materials Management Service.

GoldCare Integrated Materials Management Service: A comprehensive logistical and supply chain integration service for spare parts; including repair and overhaul of components. Boeing provides guaranteed parts availability service levels.

Both GoldCare services include new enabling technologies that turn airplane operating data into actionable information and knowledge. That information can be used simultaneously by operators, suppliers, maintenance providers and Boeing to enhance operational efficiency and improve airplane dispatch reliability and availability. GoldCare team partners include SR Technics, Smiths Aerospace, Hamilton Sundstrand and Rockwell Collins.

Shanghai September 14, 2006 - GE - Aviation has opened a new China Operations Center (CHOC) here to provide dedicated customer and product support for the country's growing aviation market. The Center officially began 24-hour, seven day a week operations on August 10.

"There are more than 1,600 GE and CFM56 engines in service in China. With the opening of the China Operations Center, we now support that fleet locally," said Tony Aiello, general manager of Customer and Product Support for GE - Aviation. "The Center is staffed by highly trained Chinese nationals who bring a wealth of technical expertise to the role and eliminate any potential language barriers. We're offering a menu of services that translates to a 'one-stop shop' and even better support for our customers including OnPointSM Diagnostics."

The CHOC mirrors the Customer Support Center based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and supports all GE and CFM56* engine models. In addition to technical line and shop maintenance support, the CHOC also provides expanded services such as in-country technical and spare part AOG (aircraft on the ground) support, lease engine dispatch, and fleet data management, as well as enhanced support for smaller operators. The center integrates engine diagnostics (health monitoring) with the product support elements to develop proactive solutions to fleet issues.

"This new center is a logical extension of GE's support of our customers in China," said Mike Wilking, president, China Region, for GE - Aviation. "Coupled with the Spare Parts Service Center in Beijing, the Aero Engine Maintenance Training Center in Guanghan City, and the On Wing Support operations in Xiamen, GE is providing a comprehensive package that will help our customers continue to succeed in an increasingly competitive and dynamic industry."

Each of the nine Technical Support Engineers (TSEs) has extensive aviation experience within China and completed an intensive 15-week training program at the Customer Support Center, including immersion training and hands-on support experience.

GE - Aviation's OnPointSM Diagnostics program has two levels of services: Standard Diagnostics which is available without charge to all GE and CFM engine operators and customizable Comprehensive Diagnostics that includes engine trend reports to assist an operator with its regulatory reporting and engine exceedance and fault troubleshooting.

ALPA Grants $4 Million to Bolster Mesaba, Comair Pilots 

Washington September 14, 2006 - The union representing pilots at Comair and Mesaba airlines has authorized a $2 million fund for each pilot group, to bolster their efforts to achieve fair and equitable labor contracts with their respective management.

"Our union is resisting a protracted and deliberate campaign to whipsaw pilots by playing them off against each other using bankruptcy courts and 'request for proposal' mechanisms to perpetuate the fee-for-departure business model," said Capt. Duane Woerth, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l (ALPA).

"These corporate maneuvers affect virtually every working pilot. By pledging $2 million to each pilot group, we are putting the industry on notice that we are in this fight to win. We will give our pilots the resources they need to stand up to these divisive tactics," Woerth said.

The action came at a meeting of the union's Executive Board on Tuesday. ALPA maintains a robust Major Contingency Fund to respond to extraordinary events and situations that threaten the airline pilot profession. These funds will be used for strike preparedness, communications, and family awareness activities.

In the case of Mesaba, the latest allocation is in addition to a previous grant of $2 million to back up the pilot group, which faces a management ploy to use bankruptcy law to impose draconian pay cuts.

"Proposals that would literally pay poverty wages even as our airline upstreams tens of millions of dollars to its holding company are absolutely unacceptable," said Capt. Tom Wychor, chairman of the Mesaba unit of ALPA. "We will not agree to such terms, and with the backing of our national union, we will not accept anything less than a fair and equitable contract."

Capt. J.C. Lawson, chairman of the Comair pilots' unit, said that, "Management is under the illusion that it can force us to make hasty, ill- advised decisions. They seem to forget that these are the same pilots who persevered through years of negotiations, and eventually, a strike in 2001. Another work stoppage is the last thing we want, but we're not going to just fold our cards and give in, either. ALPA has given us the staying power to achieve our goals and we intend to use it."

Noting the standing ovation that the Executive Board gave when the new and highly progressive tentative agreement for FedEx Express pilots was announced, Woerth said, "We have reached a point in our economic recovery where we are no longer completely driven by the disastrous tidal waves that engulfed our industry for the past five years.

"Management can no longer plead helplessness and poverty as justification for making outrageous demands at the table. Airline workers paid a terrible price to keep this industry afloat, but now it is time to draw a line beyond which we will not be pushed," Woerth continued. "The pilots at Mesaba and Comair have the desire and the resolve to stand up to predatory management tactics. Now they have the means to do so, too."

Fort Worth September 14, 2006 - American Airlines, the world's largest airline and a founding member of the oneworld(R) alliance, has expanded its frequent flyer relationship with Air Tahiti Nui, one of the leading air carriers to French Polynesia. As of Aug. 1, 2006, the enhanced agreement between American and Air Tahiti Nui enables AAdvantage members to earn AAdvantage miles for each eligible fare ticket purchased and flown on Air Tahiti Nui. The AAdvantage(R) Program and Air Tahiti Nui have provided AAdvantage members the opportunity to redeem AAdvantage miles to the South Pacific since 2000.

Air Tahiti Nui operates daily nonstop service between Los Angeles and Tahiti and three weekly nonstops from New York to Tahiti. Additionally, Air Tahiti Nui offers nonstop service between Japan and Tahiti and one-stop service between France and Tahiti. Air Tahiti Nui also offers continuing service to Sydney, Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand.

"Air Tahiti Nui has been an outstanding travel partner offering AAdvantage members the ability to redeem miles to highly desirable destinations such as Tahiti, Australia and New Zealand," said Kurt Stache, President - AAdvantage Marketing Programs. "We're pleased to give AAdvantage members another opportunity to earn AAdvantage miles by further developing our partnership with Air Tahiti Nui."

Detroit September 14, 2006 - The Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) today celebrated the conclusion of its program to provide sound insulation treatment for more than 2,400 homes and seven schools in neighborhoods near Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW).

The Residential Sound Insulation Program (RSIP) is one element in a larger noise compatibility plan voluntarily initiated by DTW which included the installation of noise berms around the airport's perimeter, the acquisition of homes most impacted by airport related noise, modified air traffic control procedures, preferential runway use and aircraft engine ground run-up procedures.

"In just 14 years more than $118 million has been pumped into the footprint surrounding the airport as of the beginning of this year," said WCAA CEO Lester Robinson. "The goal is noise reduction, but a side-benefit of residential sound insulation is home improvement and energy savings for residents. In many cases, improvements provided by the program stimulated community pride and homeowners began making other sorts of home and landscaping improvements, which continue to benefit entire neighborhoods today."

The majority of that money, nearly $76 million, was spent sound insulating homes in Romulus, Huron Township, Taylor, Westland and Dearborn Heights. Residential sound insulation typically includes new acoustical windows, primary and secondary doors, attic insulation and other architectural treatments. In most homes, it also included new heating, ventilation and air- conditioning systems, allowing homeowners to keep windows closed to block noise infiltration.

Seven schools in five communities were also sound insulated at a cost of $5.4 million, and 265 homes most impacted by aircraft noise were acquired by the program at the appraised market value. Some residents opted for the airport's purchase assurance program, which enabled homeowners to obtain fair market value at the time of the sale.

Noise measurements conducted by California-based Charles Salter Associates concluded that DTW's RSIP treatments successfully reduced interior noise levels. On average, homes achieved a 7.7Db reduction, 2.7Db better than the FAA minimum, and 29% of the homes tested achieved a greater than 10Db reduction in noise. Homeowners reported a 90% reduction in frequent noise- related disturbances and 99% of homeowners would recommend the program to others.

The Residential Sound Insulation Program, which began in 1997, was one recommendation in a broader Noise Compatibility Plan, developed when DTW completed a Federal Aviation Regulation Part 150 Noise Study in 1993. Participation in the federal Part 150 program is voluntary on the part of the airport. An airport which participates is eligible to receive up to 80% federal funding and must follow the guidelines established by Congress. Progress in the program has been monitored by the Federal Aviation Administration, which administered all federal funding. More than 20 contracting firms participated in the sound insulation program. For the past five years, the prime consultant on the program has been C&S Engineers, which established a local office in New Boston, MI.

The official noise exposure map for Detroit Metropolitan Airport is currently being updated and new data indicates that the noise contours surrounding DTW are shrinking. This is due to the accelerated addition of more fuel-efficient (and quieter) aircraft by the airlines, more reliance on smaller and quieter regional jets, and the phasing out of noisier stage II aircraft by December 31, 1999.

However, with the approval of the FAA, all eligible homes within both the old and the new noise exposure contours have been addressed by the program.

The contract for sound insulating the last 43 homes is scheduled for consideration at the September 28 WCAA Board Meeting, which means the final sound insulation activity should conclude before Thanksgiving. The Airport Authority is no longer accepting applications for sound insulation. Extensive outreach to homeowners was conducted throughout the program including direct mailings, telephone calls, knocking on doors, group meetings, media outreach, newsletters and communications with homeowner associations, property management companies and realtors. Finally, follow-up contacts were made with homeowners, who initially declined to participate, to ensure they had additional opportunities before the deadline.

"I would like to express my appreciation to Wayne County Commissioner Edward Boike who is also a member of the Airport Authority Board," said Mr. Robinson. "He remained actively engaged throughout this entire process and never failed to represent the best interests of his constituents."

Minneapolis September 14, 2006 - Mesaba flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), won a decisive victory in federal district court yesterday when Judge Michael Davis overturned an earlier decision that gave the company permission to reject the contracts of their employees. Mesaba management had been threatening to impose a 19.4 percent wage and benefit cut, which would have reduced the annual income of some Mesaba flight attendants with a family of four to under $10,000 after paying for insurance benefits.

"This is a monumental victory for Mesaba workers and employees everywhere," said Tim Evenson, Mesaba Master Council Executive President. "We hope that this decision will encourage current management -- if they remain in control of the airline -- to come back to the table for productive discussions -- this time with a proposal that is fair. Over 100 days ago, we presented the company with a cost savings proposal that met their targeted concessions. We have heard nothing from them since. It is time for management to drop the litigation and negotiate fairly with the flight attendants."

Under bankruptcy law, a company may obtain permission to abrogate its labor contracts if it can prove to the court that negotiations have been unsuccessful and the concessions necessary for the reorganization are, among other things, "fair and equitable to all parties." Earlier this year, the bankruptcy court rejected the company's first 1113(c) motion and recommended that management return to the bargaining table. Since then, management only met with AFA-CWA for two bargaining sessions, and began the first meeting by renewing their threat to seek a court order to reject the contract. In July, the bankruptcy court granted the company's second 1113(c) motion, but Judge Davis' decision yesterday overturned that decision.

"This decision gives Mesaba flight attendants hope -- hope that all their hard work will not go in vain, hope that their careers will be protected from management's overreaching demands. We have worked hard over the years to build a successful airline and we are committed, along with all Mesaba employees, to restoring our company to the great airline it once was," said Evenson.

Chantilly VA September 14, 2006 - Rolls-Royce confirmed today that Hainan Airlines Group Company Ltd. has ordered 50 Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft powered by the Rolls-Royce AE 3007 engine. The order is potentially worth more than $500 million. Deliveries are due to start in 2007.

The agreement is for more than 100 engines and includes a long-term TotalCare(R) services agreement.

Ian Aitken, President, Rolls-Royce Corporate & Regional Aircraft said: "This order is an important affirmation of the global potential for regional aircraft, particularly in expanding markets such as Asia. The AE 3007 engine, with its 10-year history of reliability on the ERJ 145 aircraft will serve this region well. We are proud that Hainan, which became part of the Rolls- Royce family in July when it selected the Trent 700 for seven A330s, has added to its fleet of Rolls-Royce engines."

Rolls-Royce has delivered more than 1,900 AE 3007 engines to Embraer since the ERJ145 entered service in 1996. The fleet has accumulated more than 19 million hours, and the same number of cycles.

Tempe AZ September 14, 2006 - US Airways today announced that Thomas B. Chapman will join the airline as vice president, congressional and federal affairs, effective Monday, Oct. 16. Chapman, 51, is a Washington, D.C. attorney with 25 years of wide-ranging experience in aviation government affairs. At US Airways, Chapman will be responsible for the airline's federal lobbying efforts, regulatory issues and federal policy initiatives. He succeeds Rosemary G. Murray, who is retiring after 37 years in the airline industry, the last 17 with US Airways. Chapman's appointment is subject to approval by the airline's board of directors.

"Tom is highly regarded in Washington for his knowledge about -- and passion for -- the airline industry, and we're thrilled to welcome him to the US Airways team," said C.A. Howlett, senior vice president, public affairs. "Tom has an in-depth understanding of the issues facing our industry and business, and he has a long history of effectively representing the industry on the national, state and local levels."

Chapman is currently legislative counsel for Southwest Airlines, and established Southwest's Washington office in 1998 to represent the company on legislative and regulatory affairs. Most recently, he was instrumental in a complex legislative effort to repeal the Wright Amendment; a measure passed in 1979 and originally intended to protect the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport from undue competition at nearby Love Field. He also led the airline industry's legislative effort to secure War Risk Insurance for airlines after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and in 1999, helped negotiate a voluntary industry program to better address airline customer service issues.

Prior to Southwest, Chapman was senior vice president for government and technical affairs for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) in Washington DC, representing the interests of more than 340,000 aircraft owners and pilots on the national, state and local levels. During his 17-year tenure at AOPA, he developed and managed a variety of federal, state and local legislative programs.

Chapman is a 1982 graduate of the American University School of Law in Washington, and a 1978 graduate of C.W. Post College in Greenvale, N.Y. He and wife Mary Scott O'Connell are the proud parents of four-year-old Patrick Thomas O'Connell Chapman. They reside in Bethesda, Md.

"US Airways is breaking new ground in an industry that has changed substantially over the past 20 years," Chapman said. "I'm excited to be a part of the new US Airways team."

go! and Mokulele Airlines Establish Code Share Agreement

Honolulu September 14, 2006 - go!, the interisland Hawaii division of Mesa Air Group Inc, and Mokulele Airlines today entered into a memorandum of understanding to establish a code share agreement to service new Hawaii destinations.

The new services will fly under the go!Express brand and customers will be able to earn valuable frequent flyer miles on all go! flights.

Mokulele Airlines was recently granted authority from the state Department of Transportation to provide scheduled service. It will operate a brand new fleet of Cessna Grand Caravan 208B aircraft in the go!Express livery to Kapalua, Lanai and Molokai from Honolulu. It will complement existing service provided by go! to Lihue, Kahului, Kona and Hilo. go!Express will also offer other non-stop services between neighbor islands.

"I am excited by the great opportunities this partnership will bring to the smaller communities of Hawaii," said Mokulele Airlines CEO, Bill Boyer. "As a Hawaii company, we are delighted with the opportunity to further develop our passenger business. Our expansion will create many new jobs in the local communities and make travel more convenient and less expensive for kamaaina and visitors. None of this would have been possible without our new partnership with go!," added Boyer.

"Bill Boyer and Mokulele have supported the go! team since our inception of service in Hawaii. Our new partnership with Mokulele, operating as go!Express, will extend our network and offer market leading low fares to more travelers throughout Hawaii. go!Express will strongly support our mission to bring families and friends together while creating great new business opportunities," said Jonathan Ornstein, Mesa Air Group Chairman and CEO.

The new go!Express flights are expected to begin in December 2006 and will soon be available online at: www.iflygo.com. go!Express passengers will fly in first class comfort in 34" pitch leather reclining seats, enjoy state-of-the-art inflight entertainment for the very first time on interisland services and earn valuable frequent flyer miles on go!

Mokulele Airlines was founded in 1998 in Kona, Hawaii. Based on the Island of Hawaii, Mokulele Airlines currently operates charter services between the islands as well as Circle Island Tours around the Island of Hawaii. The Company prides itself on its operating record and reputation for providing exceptional service with genuine Hawaii hospitality. This year, the airline received the 2006 West Hawaii Today's Best of West Hawaii award, "Best Air Tours."

With the purchase of new Caravan 208B aircraft, Mokulele will have one of the youngest fleets in Hawaii. Mokulele is a member of Regional Aviation Partners.

Green OH September 14, 2006 - Going to Florida this winter? Then look no farther than Akron-Canton Airport (CAK). Beginning January 4, 2007, AirTran Airways will add daily nonstop service to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, aboard comfy Boeing 717 aircraft. The new service will compliment the carrier's other nonstop Florida flights from CAK to Orlando, Tampa and Fort Myers. Service to Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL) will be the airline's seventh non-stop destination from CAK.

"We are excited to add our 7th non-stop destination from Akron-Canton Airport. With daily non-stops to Atlanta, New York, Boston, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Myers and now Fort Lauderdale, AirTran Airways quality low-fare service meets the service needs of Northeast Ohio," said John P. Kirby, director of strategic planning and scheduling.

"Northeast Ohioans love Florida and flock to the Miami- Fort Lauderdale- Palm Beach corridor for both leisure and business trips," said airport director Fred Krum. "By adding daily Fort Lauderdale flights, AirTran Airways has made getting to the Southeast Florida region easier than ever. Couple that with a brand new concourse, shorter lines, less confusion and nonstop service to all four great Florida cities, and you'll see why AirTran Airways makes CAK the absolute best way to get to Florida this winter."

AirTran Airways serves more nonstop destinations and carries more passengers than any other airline at CAK. Because AirTran Airways has significantly reduced air fares in this market, CAK was ranked as the sixth least expensive airport in the country, in the US Department of Transportation's fourth quarter Domestic Airline Fares Consumer Report.

Orlando September 14, 2006 - AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc., today announced the expansion of the airline's operations from Chicago's Midway International Airport with new nonstop service to Miami International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport.

As the fastest growing low-fare airline in Chicago, AirTran Airways is the only carrier to offer nonstop service to these popular Florida destinations from Midway Airport. The routes will take effect on February 7, 2007, and will operate on the efficient Boeing 717-200 and 737-700 aircraft, which make up the airline's youngest all-Boeing fleet in the country.

"Today's announcement of new nonstop service is in direct response to overwhelming customer demand for a more affordable and convenient travel option for Chicago customers to Miami and West Palm Beach," said Kevin Healy, AirTran Airways' vice president of planning and scheduling.

"The new service is a testament to our commitment to the Chicago area and we will continue to provide travelers with convenient, affordable options without sacrificing our top-notch customer service and everyday low fares."

"We are pleased that AirTran Airways has steadily increased service at Midway International Airport," said Chicago Aviation Commissioner Nuria I. Fernandez. "This expansion will offer an even greater number of travel options for the citizens of Chicago and surrounding communities."

With these new flights AirTran Airways will offer 33 daily departures from Chicago (Midway) and continues to amplify its presence in the Windy City as Miami and West Palm Beach will be the airline's ninth and tenth nonstop markets. Other Chicago (Midway) nonstop destinations served by the airline include: Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York (Newark), Orlando and Sarasota/Bradenton.