June 10, 2003 -- EVENDALE, Ohio - JetBlue Airways today announced an order for 100 CF34-10E-powered EMBRAER 190 aircraft, with options for an additional 100 aircraft. The engine portion of the firm order is valued at more than $600 million.
JetBlue, the New York-based low cost carrier, will take delivery of the aircraft over a six-year period, beginning in 2005 and extending through 2011. The three-year-old airline, which focuses on providing high quality service at low fares, has been profitable since its first full year of service.
"JetBlue has created a very exciting brand in the low-cost market-we're excited to become a part of it," said Charles Blankenship, general manager of the Small Commercial Engine Operation for GE Aircraft Engines (GEAE). "The CF34-10 powerplant represents the state of the art for jet engines and is the culmination of GE's $1.5 billion investment in this market segment. This engine will provide JetBlue the right combination of reliability and operational economics to help the airline maintain a profitable operation long term."
GEAE launched the CF34-10E propulsion system for the 100-passenger EMBRAER 190/195 aircraft in 1999. Rated at 18,500 pounds (82 kN) thrust, the engine is currently undergoing certification testing, including a flight test program on GE's unique 747 Flying Testbed that will begin in July. The engine is on schedule for certification in the fourth quarter of this year and will begin flight tests on the EMBRAER 190 in early 2004.
By combining mature technology with new advancements, the CF34-10 will give airlines better performance, higher reliability, easier maintainability, and the lowest overall of cost of ownership. Technologies include a wide chord fan that enables the engine to achieve higher thrust from a smaller diameter fan for significant weight savings; advanced materials to enhance performance and durability; 3-D aero compressor technology for better efficiency; and the latest controls technology developed for CF34-8, providing better performance, better aircraft integration, and easier maintainability.
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. GEAE also manufactures gas turbines, derived from its highly successful jet engine programs, for marine and industrial applications. In addition, GEAE provides comprehensive maintenance support, through its GE Engine Services operation, for GE and non-GE jet engines in service throughout the world. Visit GEAE online at http://www.geae.com.
Rick Kennedy
GE Aviation
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