CFM Logs $1.3 Billion In Firm Engine Orders Through June

July 19, 2004

FARNBOROUGH July 19, 2004 CFM International has taken firm orders for 234 CFM56 engines through June, at a value of approximately $1.3 billion at list price

CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma Moteurs (Safran Group) of France and General Electric Company, is the world's leading aircraft engine supplier. Since the company's formation in 1974, it has delivered more than 14,200 engines to 390 commercial and military customers.

In June, U.S.-based low-cost startup carrier Virgin America placed an order for 18 firm CFM56-5B-powered Airbus A319/A320 aircraft, along with purchase options for 72 additional airplanes. The airline is scheduled to begin taking delivery in early 2005. Virgin America will also lease 15 A320s from GE Capital Aviation Services.

Brazilian low-cost carrier Gol Transportes Aereos announced a firm order for CFM56-7 engines in May to power 15 new Boeing 737-800 aircraft, in addition to taking purchase options on 28 additional aircraft. Gol began operations in January 2001 and is already one of the world's most profitable low-cost carriers. The airline currently operates 22 leased CFM56-7-powered 737-700/-800 aircraft. The new 737-800s will begin delivery in mid-2007.

In April, long-time CFM customer China Southern Airlines announced its selection of the CFM56-5B engine to power 21 Airbus A320 family aircraft, including 15 A320s and six A319s. The airline will begin taking delivery of the CFM56-powered aircraft later this year, with deliveries extending through 2007. This was the airline's first order for CFM-powered Airbus aircraft; China Southern currently operates a fleet of A320s powered by International Aero Engines' V2500.

The CFM56 engine's low-cost, high-reliability characteristics make it the engine of choice for major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies worldwide. In addition to new orders, CFM has received follow-on orders in 2004 from Southwest Airlines, WestJet, Ryanair, Virgin Blue, GE Capital Aviation Services, and International Lease Finance Corporation.

Jamie Jewell



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jamie.jewell@ge.com

Charles Soret



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Perry Bradley



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Talal Ahmed Almahmood


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talal.almahmood@gulfair.com