Useful Load on Bell 206B3 Jet Ranger Increased

January 16, 2004

Fort Worth, TX - January 16, 2004 - The Bell 206B Jet Ranger is one of Bell Helicopters most successful models with thousands of the reliable aircraft in service throughout the world. In response to customer needs, Bell engineers have recently finished a certification program that increases the internal gross weight limit for the 206B to 3,350lbs, a significant increase of 150 lbs. Take-off at internal gross weight above 3,200 lbs. will require that airspeed is limited to 78 knots indicated (91 MPH) until a corresponding amount of fuel is consumed.

The increase in useful load will enable the JetRanger to be more competitive in the Light Helicopter market. The additional capacity will benefit the Law Enforcement market in particular, as agencies will be able to expand mission capabilities and aircraft effectiveness. Police units can now carry an extra person or extra equipment without having to reduce fuel load or otherwise limit aircraft takeoff weight. In addition, this useful load enhancement could benefit applications such as power line/pipeline patrol, air tourism and urban forest fire fighting applications.

The internal gross weight increase will be certified as an FAA STC and will be applicable to all Bell 206B Jet Rangers in the field today. There will be an information letter sent to our customers to introduce the STC, which consists of a flight manual supplement (FMS) and a revised airspeed placard for the crew station.

These performance enhancements represent Bell Helicopters' continuing commitment to improve its products. Bell takes pride in listening to its customers and working diligently to satisfy their helicopter needs. That pride and commitment will lead Bell forward as it continues to innovate and design quality aircraft.

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 businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services in industries such as aircraft, fastening systems, industrial products, industrial components and finance. 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.

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

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