Fort Worth, TX - January 8, 2008 - Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT company), announced today that its industry-leading Customer Support and Service organization is even stronger now with the addition of McTurbine Inc., which was accomplished with the acquisition of United Industrial Corporation (UIC) by its parent Textron Inc. at the end of last year.
With the integration of McTurbine Inc., Bell will now add engine maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) capability to it's existing support and service portfolio, which is a key element to the company's service business growth plan launched in 2006.
Shane Eddy, senior vice president and chief services officer, calls the addition of McTurbine and its industry-leading engine MRO capability "an important step toward Bell's goal to be the premier vertical-lift fleet management organization."
Eddy continued, "This is an exciting time for McTurbine and Bell Helicopter. Bringing together this collection of talented people and industry leading performance will undoubtedly produce increased value for our customers and shareholders."
It also will ensure Bell maintains focus on existing customer needs while driving continuous improvement through development of lean best practices for the repair-and-overhaul value stream across Bell's service business.
McTurbine is located in Corpus Christi, Texas, and has about 100 employees. It is a Honeywell-authorized service center for both T-53 and T-55 helicopter engines.
About Bell Helicopter
Bell Helicopter is an industry-leading producer of commercial and military, manned and unmanned vertical lift aircraft and the pioneer of the revolutionary tilt rotor aircraft. Globally recognized for world-class customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global workforce serves customers flying Bell aircraft in more than 120 countries.
About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is an $11 billion multi-industry company operating in 32 countries with approximately 40,000 employees. 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 Company , Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com.