Skybus Becomes First North American Operator of Advanced CFM56-5B Tech Insertion Engine

(Columbus, Ohio, December 3, 2007) -- U.S. low-fare carrier Skybus Airlines has taken delivery of a new Airbus A319 aircraft equipped with CFM56-5B Tech Insertion engines, making it the first North American operator to put the advanced configuration into revenue service. Improved technologies incorporated in the engine will help provide Skybus lower oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions in addition to better fuel consumption versus the base model, which will significantly lower C02 emissions.

CFM56-5B engines are produced by CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

Skybus, the next generation of low-fare airlines, provides nonstop service with its fleet of CFM56-5B-powered Airbus A319 aircraft from its base in Columbus, Ohio, to cities throughout the United States. The airline has ordered a total of 65 A319s, in addition to operating leased aircraft. In January 2008, Skybus will begin major operations from its recently-announced second base at Piedmont Triad International Airport in North Carolina.

"We're excited to be the first airline to introduce the CFM56-5B Tech Insertion engine to the North American market," said Bill Diffenderffer, chief executive officer of Skybus. "Skybus believes absolutely that the airline industry is essentially a technology-oriented industry, and it starts with the technology in those engines. With Tech Insertion, CFM is delivering what it promised: unmatched reliability, longer time on wing, lower fuel burn, and lower emissions."

Source : CFM International

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