Qantas selects B/E Aerospace for Airbus A380 First Class Program

B/E Aerospace Inc announced that it has been chosen by Qantas Airways to design, manufacture and deliver international long-haul first class accommodations for Qantas new fleet of Airbus A380 aircraft. Depending upon final aircraft configuration and product features, the firm order will likely be in excess of $30 million. The total program value could nearly double in the event that option aircraft are exercised.

B/E's Integrated Cabin Solutions (ICS) team will manage the program, drawing upon the design, engineering and manufacturing resources from several of B/E's principal manufacturing facilities. Qantas anticipates delivery of its first A380 in 2006 and B/E product deliveries are scheduled to begin in mid-2006.

"This program is the second major A380 award for B/E and continues the momentum we have established in the growing international super first class market. Additionally, this award further solidifies our long-term relationship with Qantas, one of the most innovative carriers in the world," said Robert Khoury, President and Chief Executive Officer of B/E.

The Qantas award, in addition to the previously announced Thai, Malaysia Airlines and Emirates programs, demonstrates a growing demand for high- end, premium cabin interiors for international super first class travel. The initial value of all four programs aggregate over $225 million, exclusive of option aircraft, with initial product deliveries scheduled to begin in the second half of 2005.