March 24, 2003 -- Hong Kong - Air Hong Kong today announced that it has placed a $100 million order for GE CF6-80C2 engines to power six firm, two option Airbus A300-600F -General Freighter- aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2004 and 2005.
Air Hong Kong will use the new aircraft to expand its operations. The cargo carrier currently serves routes to Tokyo and Bangkok from its Hong Kong hub and plans to expand its operations within the Asian region.
"The reliability and low cost of ownership of the CF6-powered A300 will be a big asset as we implement a very aggressive fleet expansion program over the next couple of years," said Tony Tyler, chairman of Air Hong Kong. "We're looking forward to working with GE Aircraft Engines."
"This was a big decision for Air Hong Kong and we're honored that they have elected to make the CF6 such an integral part of their future fleet," said Dave Calhoun, president and CEO of GE Aircraft Engines. "We've seen explosive growth in the cargo market in Asia in the last couple of years. With its ties to Cathay Pacific and DHL-two very well run and profitable organizations-Air Hong Kong is extremely well placed to become a major force in that continued growth."
Air Hong Kong is the launch customer for the A300-600F General Freighter, a version of the A300-600F that features a unique loading system and a side door capable of handling large items of general freight in addition to small packages.
In service, GE's CF6-80C2 continues to build on an unmatched reputation for reliability. There are currently 42 CF6-80C2-powered A300-600F aircraft in service with four customers. Overall, there are more than 6,000 CF6 engines flying on more than 3,000 aircraft for 170 customers around the world. CF6 engines have achieved 240 million flight hours and continue to build on that record at a rate of one million flight hours per month.
GE Aircraft Engines, a division of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is the world's leading manufacturer of jet engines for civil and military aircraft, including engines produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company of Snecma Moteurs of France and GE. GEAE also manufactures gas turbines, for marine and industrial applications. In addition, GEAE provides comprehensive maintenance support, through its GE Engine Services operation. Visit GEAE online at http://www.geae.com.
Rick Kennedy
GE Aviation
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