Noise Reduction System for MD-80 Receives EASA Certification

Renton, Washington (June 13, 2006) Aftermarket modification company Aviation Fleet Solutions has worked with Pratt & Whitney to develop and certify a uniquely capable system that reduces cumulative noise from the JT8D-200-powered MD-80 aircraft by as much as 6 dB.

The new system, QuietEagle, is a Pratt & Whitney design that has been exclusively licensed to AFS for the MD-80. It meets all the requirements of FAR Part 36 Stage 4 and ICAO Annex 16 Chapter 4 noise standards, which became effective Jan. 1, 2006. The system has recently received approval by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

"EASA's approval of our design is essential to the sale of our product in Europe," said Bob Beckett, VP-Sales of Aviation Fleet Solutions. "We are quite pleased to have completed the validation process without any issues."

AFS is in detailed discussions with several customers concerning near term purchases. "We think AFS will be landing orders in the near future based on the marketplace interest in the QuietEagle," said Steve Agnelli, Vice President Europe, M. East, Africa and CIS Sales and Customer Support with Pratt & Whitney.

The QuietEagle includes an improved front fan case, a 16-lobe mixer, a muffler and a tabbed nozzle. The new technology hardware replaces older hardware components. Installation can be completed on-wing, in about 160 man-hours.

Airlines can purchase the kit separately from Aviation Fleet Solutions or as part of JT8D-200 service contracts through Pratt & Whitney Global Service Partners. The JT8D is one of the most ubiquitous engines in commercial aviation with 8,000 in service and more than 2,100 powering MD-80 aircraft.

Aviation Fleet Solutions is a Renton, Washington-based company focused on the development of aftermarket improvements and modifications for commercial aircraft.