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| Date: 31
January, 2005 |
BAE Systems Regional Aircraft has signed an agreement with Philippine domestic airline Asian Spirit for the long-term lease of four BAe 146 regional jetliners. The airline has selected two Series 100s (E1005; E1009) and two Series 200s for its fleet expansion and first jet equipment.
Delivery of the first 83-seat Series 100 took place in late January and is due to enter service on February 1st. The second Series 100 will follow shortly. Deliveries of the two 100- seat Series 200s will take place in 2006.
Asian Spirit previously transacted with BAE Systems in late 2003 for two ATP regional turboprops. As part of this latest transaction, the airline has the right to return the in-service ATP (2055) upon the delivery of the fourth BAe 146 in 2006. Asian Spirit is happy with the performance, reliability and economics of the ATP and may decide to continue its leasing.
The ATP has provided valuable service to the airline and built up traffic as it replaced a proportion of older 60-seat Japanese-built YS-11 turboprops. The arrival of the BAe 146s will accelerate this process and provide a competitive response to other airlines with high frequency, cost –effective BAe 146s. The BAe 146 also has the potential to serve smaller airfields to provide new jet services.
Executive Vice President of Asian Spirit Jack Po said today: “ We are very happy with the ATP and the BAe 146 represents our first step into the jet era. Our relationship with BAE Systems is good and we have enjoyed continued support from them.”
Asian Spirit was set up by a team of experienced former Philippine Airlines management as an employee co-operative, following deregulation of the local air transport industry. Operations commenced in April 1996 and Asian Spirit today provides scheduled domestic services from its base at the capital Manila, linking to some 18 destinations across the country.
About BAE SYSTEMS Regional Aircraft
BAE SYSTEMS Regional Aircraft is responsible for Customer Support, Engineering and Asset Management activities covering a world-wide base of 160 customers operating over 1,100 aircraft in addition to managing a trading and leasing portfolio of some 350 aircraft.
About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE SYSTEMS is an international company engaged in the development, delivery and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea and in space. The company designs, manufactures and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, fighting vehicles, radar, avionics, communications, electronics and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.
BAE SYSTEMS has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company has more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately £12 billion through its wholly-owned and joint venture operations.
BAE Systems, innovating for a safer world.
For further information contact:
David Dorman, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0)1582 488336 Fax: +44 (0)1582 488447 ddaviddorman@aol.com
Issued by:
BAE Systems, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 6YU, UK
Tel: +44 1252 384695 Fax: +44 (0) 1252 383947
www.baesystems.com
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