LONG-TERM VENDOR AGREEMENTS SIGNED TO SUPPORT BAe 146/AVRO RJ CUSTOMERS

BAE Systems Regional Aircraft has signed long-term spares support agreements with six key vendors on the BAe 146/Avro RJ regional jetliner. Sean McGovern, Managing Director of BAE Systems Regional Aircraft stated today: “These agreements are very important to underpin our commitment to the BAe 146/Avro RJ aircraft. All of these vendors are original equipment vendors who have been with the aircraft for many years and who see continued merit in continuing to support the aircraft for the long-term. “On the back of these agreements we will continue to develop cost-effective support solutions for our customers, particularly as the BAe 146/Avro RJ starts its second life and continues to find new and innovative roles and the customer base changes, both operationally and geographically”. The agreements cover fixed price repair and overhauls for a total of nearly 340 different parts covering hydraulic and mechanical components, cabin oxygen cylinders/valves, flap electronic control unit and printed circuit boards and a range of avionics components. The vendors are AEM Limited, Eaton Aerospace, Oakenhurst Aircraft Services, Ontic Engineering & Manufacturing, Ultra Electronics Controls, and Honeywell. Building on these agreements BAE Systems will start a drive to increase the range of parts on the aircraft to be covered under similar fixed price repair and overhaul agreements. Currently some 230 BAe 146/Avro RJs are in active service worldwide (and a further 50 aircraft in storage programmes) with 61 operators in a variety of roles including, traditionally, as airliners, freighters, corporate shuttle and VIP aircraft, but also as military transports, airtankers (aerial waterbombers) and research and test/development aircraft. Some operators state they will keep the aircraft in service for at least the next 20 years.