Smiths Dowty Propellers signs support contract with Flybe Airlines

SMITHS Aerospace business Dowty Propellers, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, has signed a long-term propeller support agreement with Flybe Airlines for the Dash 8 Q400 passenger aircraft fleet.

Flybe will operate up to 66 of the Q400 aircraft. The contract is worth more than £9m ($16m) and support will commence in the first quarter of 2007. The Smiths Dowty Propellers repair facility in Gloucester will supply global support and programme management for the project.

Jonathan Chestney, Vice President & General Manager of the Smiths Aerospace Dowty Propeller business, said: Flybe is a leader in maximising the effectiveness of the Q400 aircraft.

"This programme demonstrates an understanding on both sides of the new maintenance models that are required to deliver performance and cost targets essential for a successful airline operation."

Flybe is one of Europes largest cost-effective airlines. Flybe is owned by the Walker Trust and estimates that it will carry six million passengers network-wide in 2006/2007.

Flybe has 1,700 employees (1,270 airline and 430 aviation services) with 27 years of continuous operations experience.

John Palmer, Director Aviation Services for Flybe, said: "Flybe welcomes this new exciting development with Smiths Dowty Propellers. It guarantees Flybe will continue to deliver to its end customer the best possible service as well as remaining at the forefront of regional aviation in Europe. "

ENDS