19 November 2002

Chapman Avionics, a part of Smiths Aerospace, is pleased to announce the introduction of Australia's first owner operator programme for the avionics market. Driven by the increasing demand for better service and quality levels in the regional and general aviation markets, Chapman Avionics has devised a national programme that will bring worlds best practice support to customers in the Australasian region.

Dr. John Ferrie, Smiths Aerospace Group Managing Director, said, "The programme has one objective, to bring better support closer to the customer. With a focus on increased services and the building of long term relationships, the programme aims to reduce the through life cost of avionics systems."

Chapman Avionics will provide a centralised business and quality system to all owner operators enabling them to focus on their local customers needs whilst being able to offer a nationwide warranties and a web tracking system. Building on Chapman Avionics long standing reputation in avionics maintenance, the programme involves the implementation of proven quality and business systems along with the sales support and utilization of economies of scale in terms of procurement activities.

The programme is currently undergoing extensive testing with a number of strategically selected businesses to be followed by the national rollout. The objective of the rollout phase is to have complete Australian coverage within three years, allowing all aircraft owners