Hawker Beechcraft Corporation appoints Dubai-based Empire Aviation Group as international sales representative for GCC

An agreement was signed at the Paris Air Show 2007 today by H.E. Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, chairman of Empire Aviation Group and Emirates Investment Group, and Brad Hatt, president of Commercial Sales at Hawker Beechcraft Corporation.

Under the new agreement, Empire Aviation Group will be responsible for supporting Hawker Beechcraft sales efforts in the GCC, specifically Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirites, through its Empire Aircraft Sales subsidiary.

H.E. Sheikh Tariq, who traveled to the Paris Air Show for the signing ceremony, commented:

"This agreement with Hawker Beechcraft Corporation represents a significant milestone in the development of Empire Aviation Group and creates a very strong aircraft sales platform for the new company in the GCC. Empire Aviation Group was created to service the aviation interests of Emirates Investment Group but will also help meet the demand for private aviation across the region, which is growing strongly. With its highly experienced team and substantial backing, EAG will quickly be in a position to offer a broad range of aviation services in addition to sales, including management, charter, maintenance, finance and insurance."

Commenting on the new agreement Brad Hatt said, "Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is delighted to sign this agreement with Empire Aviation Group covering one of the most exciting markets in the world for private business aviation. This new company leverages the extensive experience of the leadership team in international and regional aviation markets and we will be looking to their regional knowledge to enhance Hawker Beechcraft's sales in the region."

Empire Aviation Group was formed in 2007 to manage the regional aviation interests of Sharjah-based Emirates Investment Group and in response to the opportunity of the regional aviation market. The company operates out of Dubai International Airport.

Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is the world's leading business, special-mission and trainer aircraft manufacturer - designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company's headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark; and Chester, England, U.K. The company leads the industry with a global network of over 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers.