Rotorcraft Leasing Company, LLC, Augments All-Bell Fleet with Two 407s

April 30, 2004

Download this Press Release PDF Format (opens in new window)

Fort Worth, TX - April 30, 2004 - Two new Bell 407 helicopters have been delivered to Rotorcraft Leasing Company, LLC, a major Gulf of Mexico (GOM) offshore helicopter operator. The addition of the two 407 brings the Rotorcraft Leasing fleet to a total of 38 Bell aircraft that includes 16 JetRangers, 18 LongRangers, the two 407s and two 412s. This makes them the third largest helicopter fleet operating in the Gulf of Mexico.

Rotorcraft Leasing, headquartered in Broussard, LA, focuses on servicing offshore production and exploration facilities in the GOM. Under the partnership of Lloyd Marks and Rodger Bagwell, three companies, Rotorcraft Technologies, Rotorcraft Leasing and Ranger Aviation have recently been consolidated into one company, Rotorcraft Leasing Company, LLC.

Mr. Marks, founder of the firm, commented that the 407 "Will provide more time efficient transportation for our customers, based on the increased speed available from the 407." Marks added, "The additional payload of the 407 will also increase the flexibility that we can provide in servicing our customers in the Gulf."

Mr. Bagwell, a recent major investor in Rotorcraft Leasing, stated, "The top notch support that we have received from Bell was a major consideration as we plan our fleet growth. Bell's excellent spares availability, and their proven technical assistance ensure that our aircraft are available to provide cost effective transportation to the offshore oil industry, plus, Bell's training capability sets the industry standard."

Bell Helicopter Textron, a subsidiary of Textron Inc., is a $1.6 billion, leading producer of commercial and military helicopters, and the pioneer of the revolutionary tiltrotor aircraft. Globally recognized for customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global workforce of over 7,500 employees serves customers flying Bell aircraft in over 120 countries.

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.