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Press Release

FDC/aerofilter Receives STC for Sikorsky S-76C Inlet Barrier Filter

FDCaerofilter Sikorsky S76

Twin Engine Protection, Performance, and Real-Time Monitoring

Novato, CA November 4, 2005 - FDC/aerofilter has gained FAA approval (STC) for an Inlet Barrier Filter (IBF) kit, retrofit-able to all Arriel (1S1, 2S1) powered Sikorsky S76 helicopters. Sikorsky will install the same IBF system on all new Arriel 2S2 powered aircraft with deliveries beginning first quarter 2006. Representing two years of focused development and performance testing accomplished jointly with Sikorsky and Turbomeca (CGTM), the S76 C++ marks the first aircraft to incorporate an IBF system as part of the FAA Type Certified design. Installation of the system offers total engine inlet protection and improved airflow quality to the compressor resulting in significant operating cost reductions. Previously, no viable engine protection has been available.

The company's S76 product introduces another industry first, the FDC/aerofilter Filter Maintenance Monitor. A cockpit display gives the pilot an indication (ENG1/ENG2) of the IBF's blockage level. This information is useful to plot blockage trends for mission planning and scheduling maintenance activity. Andrew Rowen, President of FDC/aerofilter says, "Before the availability of the filter maintenance monitor, the IBF performance penalty was based on the assumption that the filter was near maximum blockage, even when the filter was clean. Real-time blockage data is now available and when the filter is clean, the penalty is minimal." A single engine version of the DO-160 qualified monitor system will be available for the AS350/EC130, EC120, and Bell 407 in early 2006.

FDC/aerofilter's IBF systems offer 99% capture efficiency on fine dust yielding dramatic reductions in maintenance cost, reduced downtime, lower operating temperatures, and reduced fuel burn. Protecting the engine is safer and provides power assurance through the overhaul life of the engine. Installed on several thousand single engine helicopters, operators of the twin engine S76 can expect to be twice as happy.

About FDC/aerofilter
FDC/aerofilter designs, manufactures and supports turbine engine inlet barrier filtration systems for helicopters operating in any environment. The unique filtration media, commitment to innovation and proven customer support have created the most efficient system on the market. FDC/aerofilter is the oldest and largest supplier of inlet barrier filters to the commercial, civil government and military markets worldwide. FDC/aerofilter offers the largest line of certified engine barrier filters in the world with systems for Bell 206B/OH58, 206L1/3/4 and 407, Eurocopter AS350B series D, EC130, EC120 and MD500, 600 and OH6 and S76A+/C.

Pure air dramatically cuts operating costs. The Aerofilter eliminates FOD and engine erosion reducing engine maintenance, decreasing downtime, and maintaining engine health. In a clean environment, the filter can pay for itself in under a year. In a harsh environment, in under a flight. For more information on current products, please visit FDC/aerofilter's website at: http://www.fdcaerofilter.com