GE Aviation

--EVENDALE, Ohio -- GE Marine Engines announced that two GE LM2500 aeroderivative gas turbines provided the main propulsion for the new Austal-built fast ferry H/F Villum Clausen, Hull 96, which recently set a new world's distance record."The two LM2500 gas turbines performed well as this fast ferry set a record for the longest distance traveled in a 24-hour period by a commercial passenger vessel," said Mike McGuire, Director, Marine Sales and Marketing of GE Marine Engines. "The record was noted during a sea voyage between Malaysia and India while the fast ferry was enroute to Denmark for delivery to operator Bornholms Trafikken." The fast ferry traveled 1,060 nautical miles at an average speed of 44 knots with a maximum speed of 47 knots. This beat the previous world record by 50 nautical miles. Austal Ships in Western Australia built the H/F Villum Clausen.The fast ferry is expected to begin commercial service between Denmark and Sweden in the Summer of 2000. The 86-meter vessel is capable of carrying 1,037 passengers and 186 cars, with a service speed of 41 knots. This project marks the first time an Australian shipyard used the LM2500 for a commercial marine propulsion application. However, 24 LM2500 gas turbines are used to power the Australian Navy's ANZAC and Adelaide class frigates. To date, GE Marine Engines has 80 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, Ohio. Visit GE Marine Engines on the worldwide web at www.geae.net