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GE Aviation and Aerion launch joint engine study for AS2 supersonic powerplant

May 21, 2017

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND | May 21, 2017

After two years of preliminary study, Aerion Corporation and GE Aviation have launched a formal process to define and evaluate a final engine configuration for the AS2 supersonic business jet.

The two companies will continue to participate in a formal and gated process to define a potential collaboration for an AS2 engine.

“We have thoroughly evaluated over two dozen civil and military engines from all leading engine producers over the past two years and believe that working with GE Aviation will help us meet the challenging specifications needed to meet our performance objectives, as well as the high expectations of our customers,” said Aerion CEO Doug Nichols.

Brad Mottier, GE Vice President and General Manager for Business and General Aviation & Integrated Services added: “Aerion sees an opportunity to pioneer a new segment in business aviation and more broadly for civil aviation. Their goal is to design and certify the first civil supersonic aircraft in half a century. We welcome their vision and are excited to continue discussions on engine configuration.”

Aerion has set a target to achieve first flight by 2023 with FAA certification by 2025.

About Aerion

Aerion Corporation of Reno, Nevada, was formed in 2002 to introduce a new era of practical and efficient supersonic flight. Over more than a decade, Aerion has demonstrated advanced wing technology in conjunction with NASA and other leading aeronautical institutions. This research includes breakthrough work in the area of supersonic natural laminar flow, the key enabling technology behind the company’s AS2 business jet. In 2014, Aerion entered into a collaboration with Airbus Group to develop the Aerion AS2 Mach 1.5 supersonic jet. Engineering is underway with first flight planned for 2021 and entry into service in 2023. More information can be found at www.aerionsupersonic.com

About GE Aviation

GE Aviation, an operating unit of GE (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. GE Aviation has a global service network to support these offerings.

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For further information, contact:

Nick Hurm              [email protected]               Mobile:  513.658.1166