LAS VEGAS, March 5, 2013 – AAR (NYSE: AIR), the leading independent provider of tactical and expeditionary airlift to the U.S. Department of Defense in Afghanistan, will showcase its diverse mix of capabilities for rotorcraft – including personnel and cargo transport for national defense, homeland security, humanitarian aid and commercial applications – during the Heli-Expo 2013 trade show in Las Vegas.
AAR Airlift, based in Melbourne, Fla., is a Part 135- and CARB-certified airline and charter service specializing in providing safe and compliant operations in a variety of operating environments. Among its current operating locations are bases in Afghanistan from which AAR services dozens of Forward Operating Bases, serving as the largest independent provider of airlift to the U.S. Transportation Command.
AAR Airlift has the capabilities to provide expeditionary airlift support for commercial applications as well, including food aid and disaster relief in high, hot, and remote environments that require specialized expertise and experience. Last year, AAR Airlift was responsible for transporting more than 422,000 passengers and 41.5 million pounds of cargo and mail in Afghanistan, including conducting sling loads of greater than 5,000 pounds at high altitude and over extensive distances.
“AAR Airlift has a proven track record of customer satisfaction and high operational reliability operating in harsh and austere conditions,” said Randy Martinez, President, AAR Airlift Group. “Heli-Expo is an excellent opportunity to introduce our capabilities to more commercial operators and markets, including mining, oil and gas, forestry and other resource extraction, particularly in Africa, South America, and other areas where transportation infrastructure is limited.”
In addition, “The Company’s extensive experience with seagoing vertical replenishment for the U.S. Navy makes AAR Airlift a strong fit for the offshore oil and gas exploration market,” Martinez said.
Combining its renowned engineering and Part 145-repair center capabilities, AAR’s Airlift Group is also capable of modifying aircraft to customer specifications. AAR is a leading supplier of products and services for rotorcraft operators and manufacturers, including supply chain, component repair, cargo systems, interiors and aerostructures.
About AAR
AAR is a global aerospace and defense contractor that employs more than 6,000 people in 17 countries. Based in Wood Dale, Illinois, AAR supports commercial, government and defense customers through two operating segments: Aviation Services and Technology Products. AAR’s services include inventory management and parts distribution; aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul; and expeditionary airlift. AAR’s products include cargo systems and containers; mobility systems and shelters; advanced aerostructures; and command and control systems. More information can be found at www.aarcorp.com.
