Alenia's Participation on Boeing 7E7 Technology Development Team ConfirmedROME, February 5, 2003 - Boeing [NYSE: BA] today confirmed that Alenia Aeronautica, a Finmeccanica company, is helping to develop the materials technologies that are being evaluated for the new Boeing 7E7 commercial airplane development program. Boeing formed its technology development team starting in 2002 to find the best solutions for lightweight, high durability materials for future airplane structures. Composite and advanced aluminum alloy possibilities are being considered. "Alenia brings unique skills and knowledge to our team," said Walt Gillette, vice president of Engineering, Manufacturing and Partner Alignment for the Boeing 7E7. "We have worked well together for many years and see many opportunities for our continued cooperation on this program." "Alenia Aeronautica views with satisfaction the qualitative growth of its cooperation with Boeing, made possible not only be the long standing industrial collaboration between the two companies but also as a result of new developments" said Giovanni Bertolone, senior vice president Engineering of the Italian company; "I believe that the recent contribution of new technologies, the experience with integrated processes of design and manufacturing, the direct involvement of a an Alenia Aeronautica team in significant areas of study at Boeing in Seattle are major factors in our cooperation on the 7E7 which we are proud of." The Boeing 7E7 is being developed as a 200- to 250-seat airplane that will fly between 7,000 and 8,000 nautical miles at speeds similar to today's fastest twin-aisle commercial airplanes - the 777 and 747. It will be the most advanced and efficient commercial airplane in its class and will set new standards for environmental responsibility and passenger comfort. The airplane will be based on the enabling technologies developed with a global industry team during the company's examination of the Sonic Cruiser concept. In December 2002, Boeing announced that based on customer input and market analysis, it would focus these new technologies on a super-efficient, mid-sized airplane. The market potential for a new airplane of this size is forecasted at up to 3,000 units over the next 20 years. The company expects to formally offer the new airplane to customers in early 2004, with entry into service targeted for 2008. Boeing and Alenia Aeronautica have a long history of successful cooperation on many programs. Alenia provides large subassemblies for the 717, 757, 767 and 777. In addition, through Aeronavali, Alenia is a main modification and service center for Boeing commercial andmilitary airplanes. ### Contacts: Nick Brough, 39064824731 (Italy) |