GE Aviation

--EVENDALE, OH - GE Marine Engines reported that the Capricorn and Scorpio MDV 3000-class fast ferries recently began commercial operation powered by GE's LM2500 aeroderivative gas turbines. These are the third and fourth MDV 3000-class fast ferries to enter commercial service. The LM2500 gas turbines performed flawlessly during sea trials and exceeded all specification requirements. Sea trials were completed for the Capricorn and Scorpio in April and May, respectively. GE's LM2500 gas turbines also power the initial two MDV 3000-class fast ferries the Aries and Taurus which began commercial operation in the summer of 1998. The four fast ferries provide service on the Civitavecchia to Sardinia Island and Genoa to Sardinia Island routes in Italy. The MDV 3000, the world's largest fast ferries, were built by Fincantieri, Genoa, Italy for Tirrenia Lines. Each MDV 3000 fast ferry features a combined diesel and gas turbine configuration with two 22-megawatt LM2500 gas turbines and four 6.7-megawatt MTU diesel engines. Total power output is more than 70 megawatts per vessel. The fast ferries are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 40 knots, and can carry 1,800 passengers and 460 vehicles. The LM2500s for these applications were placed in propulsion packages by FiatAvio, Torino, Italy, a GE Marine Systems Supplier. Including the four MDV 3000 fast ferries, there will be 66 GE LM aeroderivative gas turbines slated for use or operating in commercial marine service worldwide. GE Marine Engines is part of GE Aircraft Engines and is headquartered in Evendale, OH. GE Marine Engines is the world's largest designer, developer and manufacturer of aeroderivative gas turbines for a variety of commercial and military marine propulsion applications.