Hampson Industries PLC Secures Contract To Manufacture Empennage Assembly For Eclipse 500

In another addition to Eclipse Aviation's increasingly international reach; Eclipse and the UK's Hampson Industries PLC, have signed a contract under which Hampson will manufacture the empennage assembly for the revolutionary Eclipse 500 jet. The agreement represents the largest single contract ever awarded to Hampson and reflects Eclipse's commitment to partner with the most capable suppliers worldwide. The contract has an estimated value of $380 million USD.

Under the contract, Hampson's Aerospace Fabrications & Assemblies Division will assemble the complete empennage structure of the aircraft, including component parts and large stretch-formed components. Completed assemblies will be delivered direct to Eclipse Aviation's manufacturing facilities in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on a just-in-time basis. Hampson is currently a principal supplier to leading aerospace manufacturers including Airbus, Boeing and Rolls-Royce PLC.

"We are delighted to be associated with Eclipse and to have the opportunity to play a significant part in the launch of this revolutionary new aircraft," said Kim Ward, Chief Executive of Hampson. "The securing of this contract follows other successful recent new work gains by Hampson and provides us with access to a high profile and very high volume program. We intend to work in very close partnership with Eclipse to ensure the success of the Eclipse 500 program."

Hampson will supply assemblies for pre-production aircraft in 2004, followed by an expected rapid build up in support of Eclipse's production plans from 2006 onwards.

"The Hampson team has demonstrated strong expertise in structural part fabrication and component assembly, proven knowledge of production logistics, and an ability to scale their manufacturing to support our high volume production," said Vern Raburn, president and CEO of Eclipse Aviation. "This contract once again demonstrates Eclipse Aviation's commitment to search globally to find the most qualified partners, who share our vision to change the way people travel and have the capability to support our value proposition."

The Eclipse 500 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW610F engines, the aircraft will have accommodation for five passengers plus the pilot and will have a maximum cruise speed of 375 knots. It will cost $950K.

FMI: www.Hampson-Industries.plc.uk, www.eclipseaviation.com