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Issue 46 - July 22, 2008

In this issue of the EADS North America Tanker Activity Update:

•	New sales spur another increase in production for the KC-45 Tanker’s A330-200 airframe
•	Manufacturing begins for the first A330-200F freighter

New sales spur another increase in production for the KC-45 Tanker’s A330-200 airframe

The A330 jetliner – on which Northrop Grumman’s KC-45 Tanker is based – remains the leading product in its twin-aisle market segment, with 11 new firm orders and commitments for eight more announced during this month’s Farnborough Airshow.

Continued market demand for the A330's passenger, freighter and military tanker/transport versions is spurring a step-up in production, boosting the already-accelerated output of eight aircraft per month to a new volume of 11 aircraft monthly.

New A330 orders announced during the Farnborough Airshow included Saudi Arabian Airlines’ contract for eight A330s as part of its fleet modernization plan. Tunisia’s national airline, Tunisair, inked a contract for three A330-200s, which also will be a part of the carrier’s equipment upgrade program.

In addition, the new Italian cargo company Alis Aerolinee Italiane signed a Memorandum of Understanding for five A330-200 Freighter aircraft, plus three options.

Alis Aerolinee Italiane intends to establish direct links from Northern Italy to long-haul markets such as North America, India, China, Japan and South-East Asia – using the A330-200 Freighter’s range and cargo-carrying capability for efficient, competitive services.

Through the end of June, A330 firm orders totaled 975, with 550 aircraft delivered to airlines and government customers worldwide.

Manufacturing begins for the first A330-200F freighter

Production is in full swing for the A330-200F – the new freighter derivative of the A330-200 jetliner, which is equipped with a large side-fuselage cargo door.

Components for the first A330-200F are now taking shape, along with the forward fuselage shells and center fuselage section. Critical design reviews have already been completed for several systems, and some test units are now available.

With bookings and commitments for over 80 aircraft to date, the A330-200F has been chosen by customers around the world for its versatility, and payload/range capacity. U.S. orders have been placed by Aircastle Advisor Ltd., Guggenheim Aviation Partners, Intrepid Aviation and MatlinPatterson.

The A330-200F’s versatile main-deck cargo configuration and large cargo door enables the freighter to meet the long-term needs of general cargo operators and low-density express services. It also will benefit from the strong reputation and operational reliability of the proven A330-200.

Contact:
Guy Hicks
Vice President – Communications and Public Relations
EADS North America
Tel: 703 236-3300
e-mail: guy.hicks@eads-na.com