27 April 2005

Smiths is among the key suppliers on the A380, providing 5 significant systems. Smiths landing gear actuation system provides the brain and brawn to extend and retract the main landing gears and synchronizes and actuates all landing gear doors with Smiths electronic hardware and software, while the mid-fixed trailing edge structural components form a major part of the wing. Smiths also provides the high-lift wing flap & slat actuation, air generation system actuation, and video switching multiplexor for display functions. Smiths total contract value on the Airbus A380 is worth more than $1 billion.

"We are delighted to bring the technology of our integration of electronic and mechanical systems together for the A380," commented John Ferrie, Managing Director of Smiths Aerospace, "We are thrilled to be working with Airbus and to be a member of the A380 team."

Together with Airbus Smiths can be proud of their important contributions to achieve the successful maiden flight of the A380, said Airbus' Executive Vice President Procurement, Tom Williams. We shall continue to work extensively with Smiths to secure a smooth industrial ramp-up and a flawless maturity at entry into service.

Smiths Aerospace is the leading transatlantic aerospace equipment and systems company, with more than 10,000 staff and nearly $2 billion sales split between Europe and North America. Smiths Aerospace, a part of Smiths Group plc, holds key positions in the supply chains of all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers and is a world-leader in digital, electrical and mechanical systems, engine components and Systems Customer Services.

The A380 is expected to enter service in 2006 after further rigorous flight tests and certification. Airbus has 154 orders for the A380 aircraft and commitments from 15 customers worldwide.

Video of the first flight as well as pictures are found at www.airbus.com.