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| Date: 20 May, 2005 |
BAE Systems Regional Aircraft is introducing a Life Extension Programme for the BAe 146 that will enable the aircraft to continue operations for at least another 20 years.
This follows a sustained programme of investment by Regional Aircraft and analysis of the past 20 years of actual aircraft operations to derive improved maintenance programmes that validate continued operation.
The result is the introduction of two new manuals, one covering corrosion – the Corrosion Protection and Control Programme (CPCP), and one covering fatigue – the Supplementary Structural Inspections Document
(SSID).
The CPCP is invoked when a particular airframe reaches 20 calendar years and introduces an indefinite calendar life.
The SSID is introduced when a particular airframe reaches 40,000-50,000 cycles (weight and variant dependent). The life is extended to 60,000 cycles immediately and will be further extended to 80,000 cycles shortly.
The Systems Life Extension work for both the BAe 146 and Avro RJ is complete. All BAe 146 and RJ systems (5,500 individual components) have been analysed by Regional Aircraft in collaboration with major equipment suppliers and the Civil Aviation Authority. The result is that with the exception of a few parts the life of all components has been de-limited.
Commenting on the BAe 146 Life Extension Programme today, Rob Hearn, Customer Service Director said: " We have invested heavily in this programme as we believe there is a strong future for the BAe 146 as do our vendors, and we thank them for their support. We have also had tremendous support from operators of the BAe 146 lead fleet aircraft. Our overall aim is to keep the aircraft current and competitive and to ensure that operating costs are kept to a minimum. We look forward to a further 20 years of BAe 146 operations".
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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