Bell Helicopter Acquisition Furthers After-Market Support

May 14, 2004

Fort Worth, TX - May 14, 2004 - In a move to continue expansion of its after-market service offerings, Bell Helicopter, a unit of Textron Inc., announced that it has acquired Acadian Composites, the structural composite panel repair business of Petroleum Helicopters, Inc. Acadian Composites will become part of Aeronautical Accessories, Inc., a Bell Helicopter business that provides extensive services for helicopter operators worldwide. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Lafayette, La.-based Acadian Composites specializes in the repair of metal bonded panels for a variety of civilian and military helicopters - an essential requirement in maintaining and extending the lifecycle of the aircraft.

"This acquisition is in total alignment with our strategy to expand capabilities and broaden our already world-class service offerings," said Michael Redenbaugh, chief executive officer of Bell Helicopter. "This is a natural fit -- both for us and for our customers -- not to mention an ideal location, as Louisiana currently has the second largest fleet of commercial rotorcraft in the country, representing a significant growth area."

Aeronautical Accessories, Inc. is a subsidiary of Edwards & Associates, Inc., a unit of Bell Helicopter. Edwards & Associates comprises three helicopter service companies: Edwards, Inc.; Aeronautical Accessories, Inc.; and Rotor Blades, Inc. Edwards specializes in service, refurbishment and new helicopter completions. Aeronautical Accessories is a leader in the design, development, manufacture and distribution of parts and products. Rotor Blades specializes in the overhaul and repair of helicopter rotor blades. More information is available at www.edwards-assoc.com.

Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) is a $10 billion multi-industry company with more than 43,000 employees in 40 countries. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO and Greenlee, among others. More information is available at www.textron.com.

Quick Links

Connect with Textron IR

Eric Salander, Vice President, Investor Relations
(401) 457-2288

Cameron Vollmuth, Manager,
Investor Relations (401) 457-2288

Email Alert


Enter your Email	*



Enter the code shown above.

Mailing Lists *
Press Release SEC Filing Presentation Event EOD Stock Quote