LYNN, MASSACHUSETTS -- GE's CF34-3A1 and -3B1 turbofan engines have realized a significant operational milestone, having accumulated more than 5 million flight hours powering, respectively, the Bombardier CRJ Series 100 and Series 200 aircraft.

This achievement follows closely last month's agreement by which Delta Air Lines' subsidiaries Atlantic Southeast Airlines (ASA) and Comair intend to purchase 94 CRJ aircraft, with options for up to 406 more. The potential total engine value exceeds $2 billion in this, the largest-ever regional jet agreement. The aircraft will include the CRJ200 and the CRJ700, Bombardier's new 70-passenger aircraft powered exclusively by the larger, more powerful CF34-8 turbofan engines.

The CF34-3A1, in service since 1992, and the CF34-3B1, in service since 1996, currently power a total of 372 CRJ aircraft flown by 20 airlines worldwide. High engine reliability, coupled with GE's flight operations and customer support programs, contributed significantly to the CF34's nearly flawless introduction into airline service and the continuation of its excellent performance in a rapidly expanding global airline fleet during nearly eight years of operation.

"Five million flight hours in regional service during this period attests to the exceptional performance and reliability of these engines," said Frank Klaus, general manager of the Small Commercial Engine Operation of GE Aircraft Engines, "but just as important are the cost-of-ownership savings our customers enjoy. Its performance and reputation have made the CF34 engine family the preferred engines for 40- to 90-passenger regional jets."