Press Release

Issued by GE Aerospace.

May 20, 2013

GE Aviation and AIR-TEC signed an agreement to develop an engine upgrade program for the L 410 aircraft. Under the program, AIR-TEC will replace the current M601 engine that powers the L 410 with GE's new H75 engine.

"AIR-TEC is the largest M601 operator and has a deep understanding of the engine and aircraft," said Jim Stoker, president and managing executive of GE Aviation Czech. "The engine upgrade to the new H75 engine will enhance the performance of the L 410 aircraft and bring many benefits to customers."

"We see great opportunities with the H75-powered L 410 aircraft in our own fleet as well as aircraft operating in the African and Latin American regions, and we look forward to developing this new engine upgrade program," said Jan Rehousek, chief executive officer of AIR-TEC.

Customers can easily upgrade from a M601 engine to the H75 without any major modifications to the aircraft. The engine upgrade program will provide customers with increased temperature margin, improved fuel efficiency and extended time between overhaul.

The H75, which GE Aviation launched last year, is rated at 750 shaft horsepower (shp) for takeoff and maximum continuous operation and is aimed at the agricultural, commuter, utility and business turboprop aircraft segments. EASA certified the H75 engine last year with the FAA type certification anticipated this year.