Rolls-Royce and Fokker Services announced today (6 February) that they are to form an alliance aimed at supporting owners and operators of Fokker 100 and Fokker 70 regional jets.

Around 180 of the twinjets, which are powered exclusively by Rolls-Royce Tay engines, are expected to become available for re-marketing.

The two companies will use their joint resources to market a unique Total Care Packages that offers comprehensive flight hour agreements for the complete aircraft.

Mark King, Executive Vice President - Customer Business, Rolls-Royce, said: "Over 300 Fokker 100s and Fokker 70s have been produced, and have a worldwide customer base. These planes are modern, fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, and the current downturn in commercial aviation means that used aircraft are available. Total Care agreements will offer customers confidence in continued support of the aircraft as well as controlled costs, enhancing the competitiveness of their operations."

Hans Berends van Loenen, President, Fokker Services, added: "These Total Care agreements enable us to offer a unique support package to our customers that not only covers the whole aircraft but also, due to its economics, has a positive effect on the residual values of the aircraft."

Under the agreement, Rolls-Royce and Fokker will guarantee support of the aircraft for a minimum period of ten years.

The alliance plans discussions with leasing companies that have Fokker 100s and Fokker 70s in their portfolios. It has agreements for continued support and product improvements with its strategic suppliers.

Fokker Services supplies integrated maintenance and modification services to aircraft operators and owners. Fokker Services is part of the Stork Aerospace Group. The group has 3,335 employees and achieved a turnover of EUR 421 million in 2001, out of the total Stork turnover of EUR 2.2 billion