Keystone Helicopter Introduces Silencer Airframe for Quieter Interior and Improved Structural Integrity; Company Will Display New Technology in S76 Mockup at HAI Heli-Expo

WEST CHESTER, Pa.--Feb. 3, 2005--Keystone Helicopter, an industry leader in helicopter services for 51 years, will introduce its new Silencer(TM) airframe at this year's HAI Heli-Expo.

According to Jim Munda, Keystone Helicopter's Vice President of Engineering, the retrofit technology will work in virtually any rotorcraft. "It's a substantial improvement on the popular Cocoon system," he said. "Silencer gives you significant noise suppression inside the cabin and improved structural integrity, with no loss in fuel efficiency."

The system uses an advanced carbon fiber skeletal structure that incorporates AC ductwork as structural cross members and attaches to the airframe with isolators. The outer framework supports the interior for improved rigidity and reduced vibration, while permitting easy access for airframe inspections and allowing room for an acoustic blanket.

Keystone Helicopter will display an S76 mockup featuring the Silencer at this year's HAI Heli-Expo. The mockup will include design panels that detach for maintenance access and feature sealed, edged cutouts for gaspers, lights and switch panels. All gaspers and lighting mount on the skeletal framework instead of being directly installed on the airframe.

"The Silencer program is a perfect example of the steady incremental improvements we pursue at Keystone Helicopter," said Steve Townes, Chairman and CEO of Keystone Ranger Holdings, Keystone Helicopter's parent company. "It's an ideal retrofit for virtually any airframe and makes a substantial contribution to improving ride quality."

About Keystone Helicopter

Keystone Helicopter is one of the largest and oldest helicopter services companies in the United States. Founded in 1953, Keystone operates a large technical services depot and completion center near Philadelphia. The firm also operates a large fleet of turbine helicopters in numerous locations across several eastern states, primarily in the air medical mission. Keystone Helicopter is owned by Keystone Ranger Holdings, Inc., a Philadelphia-area private equity investment organization that specializes in aviation-related ventures. Additional information is available online at: www.keystonehelicopter.com and at www.rangeraerospace.com.