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Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
NEW YORK / BIRMINGHAM, UNITED KINGDOM – June 15, 2017 - Liberty Hall Capital Partners (“Liberty Hall”), a private equity firm focused exclusively on investments in businesses serving the global aerospace and defense industry, today announced thatit has acquired Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Ltd., a leading independent global designer, manufacturer and retreader of aircraft tires, in a transaction valued at US$135 million, subject to customary adjustments as per the purchase agreement. Dunlop Aircraft Tyres represents Liberty Hall’s first portfolio company focused on providing aftermarket products and services to the global aerospace and defense industry.
Dunlop is the brand of tire originally produced by the Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Company beginning at the end of the 19th century, taking its name from founder John Boyd Dunlop. Dunlop Aircraft Tyres is the only pure-play specialist aircraft tire manufacturer in the world and is not affiliated with Goodyear Dunlop, which acquired the Dunlop car tire brand in 1999.
“Our intention is to steward the legacy, reputation and brand name that Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has built over its 100-plus year lifetime to grow the company into an independent, global, diversified supplier of aircraft tire products of the highest value,” said Rowan Taylor, Liberty Hall’s founding partner. “With a globally recognized brand, proven history of customer service, exemplary technology and a well-balanced portfolio of platforms in the civil and military aircraft sectors, the business is ideally placed to continue to outperform the market. The company has also executed a successful business strategy based upon geographic expansion, product and technology range enhancement and modernization. We intend to provide management with the financial, intellectual and human capital necessary to continue to meet the needs of Dunlop’s customers.”
Headquartered in Birmingham, UK, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres operates three facilities located in Birmingham, Mocksville, NC, and Jinjiang, China and has approximately 570 employees. The company’s proprietary products are found on more than 150 commercial, regional and military aircraft platforms and serve over 300 global customers, including airline operators and manufacturers, across more than 85 countries. Over 90 percent of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’s revenues are generated in the aftermarket.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’s existing management team, led by Gordon Roper, CEO and managing director, will remain in their roles following the acquisition. Gordon Roper commented: “Management’s day-to-day focus will be on continuing to execute our successful business strategy. Liberty Hall, with its deep experience, knowledge and relationships within the global aerospace industry, is ideally positioned to help us accelerate the outstanding growth record that we have demonstrated in recent years.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres represents Liberty Hall’s fourth platform acquisition and second acquisition in Birmingham, UK. In November 2013, Liberty Hall formed Tulsa, OK-based Accurus Aerospace Corporation, a fully-integrated, highly diversified Tier II aerostructures supplier. In February 2016, Liberty Hall acquired Renton, WA-based AIM Aerospace, a leading, independent supplier of composite ducting, structural and interiors parts for the commercial aerospace industry. In March 2016, Liberty Hall acquired Birmingham-based Bromford Industries, a leading supplier of complex, close tolerance engine components, fabrications and assemblies and landing gear components for the global aerospace and power generation industries.
Liberty Hall was advised by Macquarie Capital (Europe) Limited, while financing for the acquisition was provided by Royal Bank of Scotland’s Corporate Transactions Team, Permira Credit Solutions Funds and Macquarie Corporate Holding Pty Limited (UK Branch). Legal advice to Liberty Hall was provided by Gibson Dunn & Crutcher.
The sellers and management were advised by Rothschild & Co. Legal advice to the sellers was provided by CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang and legal advice to management was provided by Macfarlanes.
Liberty Hall Capital Partners is a private equity firm focused exclusively on investments in businesses serving the global aerospace and defense industry. Liberty Hall’s principals have a 25-plus year history of working together and have led the investment of $2.4 billion in equity capital in businesses serving multiple segments of the aerospace and defense industry and complementary industrial end markets. Liberty Hall develops actionable investment strategies for attractive segments of the aerospace and defense industry and then partners with entrepreneurs and management teams to acquire leading businesses serving these segments and, together with them, develops sound, long-term strategic plans to build these businesses through a combination of strategic investments and strategic acquisitions. For more information, please visit Liberty Hall
Back to topBusiness Minister Anna Soubry today visited Birmingham to hear how Dunlop Aircraft Tyres plans further investment in new production equipment to help it expand its product range and increase international sales.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, the world’s only specialist manufacturer and retreader of aircraft tyres, was one of four companies in the West Midlands that the minister visited during a fact-finding day in the region.
She met with Dunlop’s sales and marketing director, David Skepper, finance director, Stephen Ray, and director of OE business development, Martin Pye, before speaking with other employees during a factory tour.
During the visit, Soubry heard about Dunlop’s continued investment in the Erdington factory, including plans to enhance its testing capabilities so that it can develop a wider range of tyres.
Business Minister Anna Soubry said: “The Midlands is a hub of modern, high-tech firms driving things forward and creating high skilled jobs. For example, Dunlop is the only dedicated aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader in the world - its products are exported to more than 80 countries. We have a long term plan for this region to become an Engine for Growth and companies like this will help the Midlands to lead the way.”
David Skepper, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ sales and marketing director, said “We are firmly committed to maintaining our manufacturing in Birmingham and have made a significant investment in new production equipment over the last two years,”
“During our meeting with the Business Minister we discussed Government initiatives that could help companies like Dunlop to accelerate their growth.”
Exports now account for more than 80 per cent of Dunlop’s sales, with tyres made in Birmingham being shipped to commercial and military aircraft operators around the world.
To help fuel further international growth, Dunlop opened a distribution and retreading facility in China that supports the Asia Pacific region. And later this year the company will open its first retreading centre in North America. All tyres distributed through the facilities in China and America are made by Dunlop in Birmingham.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres announced at Paris Air Show that it has been selected to provide tyres for an all new turboprop regional airliner being developed by Chinese manufacturer AVIC Aircraft Xi’an Branch.
Each Modern Ark 700 aircraft (MA700) will require six tyres (two for the nosewheels and four for the mainwheels) and the manufacturer projects worldwide sales of approximately 800 aircraft.
AVIC Aircraft Xi’an Branch says that the MA700 will burn about ten per cent less fuel than its competitors and will be the first China-made turboprop aircraft to gain certification by western authorities.
The 70-seat aircraft is due to make its first flight in 2017 ahead of entry into service in 2019 with launch customers Okay Airways and Joy Air.
“Dunlop’s track record, particularly within the regional turboprop marketplace, means we can depend on the company to deliver for us and our customers,” said Mr Wang Bing, director of programme management department at AVIC Aircraft Xi’an Branch
“Not only will Dunlop be a key partner during the development of the aircraft, but once the MA700 is in service the company’s ability to retread tyres here in China as well as in Europe and the Americas will mean that we can jointly serve the needs of our global customer base.”
Ian Edmondson, chairman of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, said: “AVIC is looking to be a major player in the regional turboprop marketplace and we are very excited to have been selected as the tyre supplier for the MA700. The MA700 selection will help Dunlop retain its strong share of the regional market segment”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres announced at Paris Air Show that it has clinched a three-year deal to support Garuda Indonesia’s fleet of Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen regional jets.
The airline operates 15 of the aircraft and has three more on order for delivery later this year. Each aircraft is fitted with six wheels and Dunlop estimates that its contract with the airline’s maintenance company, GMF AeroAsia, will be worth in excess of US$3 million.
It is the first time that Dunlop, the world’s only dedicated aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, has had an ongoing contract to support Garuda aircraft, although the company has previously supplied the airline on an ad-hoc basis.
“Garuda is one of Asia’s fastest-growing airlines and we are very pleased to have been given the chance to support its fleet of CRJ1000s,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“The new tyres for this contract will be made at our factory in Birmingham, with distribution and retreading at our facility in Jinjiang, China.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres recently announced that it had secured one of the largest contracts in its 105-year history – a deal to support the world’s fleet of more than 270 Boeing C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft.
Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres has appointed David Shen as general manager.
David joins the tyre distribution and retreading facility, based in Fujian Province, China, from aircraft engineering company HAECO-Xiamen, where he had been senior manager of business improvement and lean development.
In total he has more than 17 years’ technical experience within the aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul industry.
“David brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help us build on our success in the Asia Pacific region,” said Ian Edmondson, chairman, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres.
Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres, which opened in November 2009, is a joint venture between Dunlop Aircraft Tyres which is the majority shareholder, Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO) and Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (TAECO).
It serves the needs of aircraft operators throughout Asia Pacific and airlines from countries including Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Philippines and Taiwan are among those being supported by the company.
Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has won a deal to support the world’s fleet of more than 270 Boeing C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft.
News of the deal – one of the biggest in Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ 105-year history – follows the announcement that the company is investing in establishing its first ever tyre distribution and retreading facility in the United States.
Dunlop’s eight-year agreement with Boeing will see it provide new and retread tyres for the C-17’s main and nose wheels. Each aircraft has a total of 14 wheels – 12 on the main landing gear and two on the nose.
Boeing estimates that Dunlop will need to provide approximately 10,000 new and retreaded tyres each year to support the worldwide fleet.
This includes supporting aircraft operated by forces from Australia, Canada, India, NATO, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. The United States Air Force, which flies more than 220 of the aircraft, is the largest operator.
“This major contract is excellent news for the company,” said Dunlop’s chairman, Ian Edmondson. “In winning it, we faced significant competition from other manufacturers.
“Additional new tyre and retread capacity has been added to support this important new contract and, following successful completion of the flight testing, we are now supplying tyres to Boeing.”
Boeing’s supply chain technical lead engineer, Randy Liedahl said: “Since the moment of contract award, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has proven to be a very proactive and thorough supplier and partner to The Boeing Company.
“The company has invested in new equipment and personnel to meet the requirements of our programme.
“The development of the new C-17 Tyres went remarkably quickly from prototype to the final qualification test articles. We have completed final flight testing and have now received the first tyre deliveries for our customers.”
Dunlop has a successful track record of supplying tyres for military transport aircraft including the new Airbus A400M and Lockheed C-130 Hercules.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has identified a site in Mocksville, North Carolina as the preferred base for its first retreading facility in the United States.
The company, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, recently announced its decision to establish the facility in order to boost its competitiveness across the Americas.
It had been evaluating a number of potential sites in the South East of the USA and, subject to state funding to support the modernisation of a 108,480 square foot vacant industrial building in Davie County, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres will establish the operation in Mocksville.
“We plan to create at least 40 jobs within our first two years of operation and there is the prospect of more to follow as we expand our presence in the market,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We have been encouraged by the positive response to our plans by the local community. The site offers good transport links and we are confident that we can find an excellent work force within the Mocksville and Davie County region.
“Subject to approval of the funding, we will start work to modernise and equip the site as soon as possible and plan to open for business in early 2016.”
James Stockert, who works with the Davie County Economic Development Commission said: “Like all economic development wins bringing new jobs in to Davie County, this win was the result of many people in our community working together to make things happen.
“We are grateful that Dunlop Aircraft Tyres sees Davie County as a great location with a prepared workforce and has chosen to bring good jobs to our community.”
British manufacturer Dunlop Aircraft Tyres today announced that it is to establish its first retreading facility in the United States.
The company, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, will use the base to boost its competitiveness across the Americas, particularly on popular narrow and wide-bodied jet airliners and military aircraft.
Until now, Dunlop has been successfully supported by independent distribution and retreading partners in the Americas who distribute new tyres and retread the company’s tyre casings for regional turboprops and jets.
By offering local retreading within the region, Dunlop will bring increased choice to airlines, military aircraft operators and maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities.
Dunlop, based in Birmingham, UK, already supports a number of US-based airlines. In particular, the company’s tyres are a popular choice for operators of regional jets and turboprops including the Bombardier Dash 8 series and Embraer E-Jets.
Major customers include Compass Airlines which operates 42 E-Jets for Delta Connection and Republic Airlines which operates more than 150 Dunlop equipped E-Jets on behalf of America Eagle, United Express and US Airways Express.
Republic recently placed an order placed an order for a further 50 aircraft, which will take its total E-Jet fleet to 223 by 2017.
“This new retreading facility, which will also distribute new tyres, will position us to expand our market share on several popular aircraft, including the Boeing 737NG,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“Overseas expansion has been key to the company’s recent success. We now export more than 80 per cent of the products we make in Birmingham and our strategy of offering local tyre distribution and retreading has already proven itself successful in Asia Pacific.
“This latest investment is good news for our employees in Birmingham, it’s good news for our customers and it will be good news for the community in which we decide to establish the facility.”
Dunlop is currently evaluating a number of potential sites in the South East of the USA and is planning to open the facility in early 2016.
In 2009, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres opened a similar tyre distribution and retreading facility in China. It now employs nearly 60 people and supports airlines across Asia Pacific including Air Nelson, Lion Air, China Express, Japan Air Commuter, Mandarin Airlines, QantasLink and SpiceJet.
China’s first privately-owned regional airline has awarded Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres a three-year deal to supply tyres for its expanding fleet of regional airliners.
Under the agreement, Dunlop, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, will support China Express Airlines’ Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen aircraft.
The Guiyang-based airline operates nine of the 75-seat jets and the fleet will increase to 12 by the end of this year and to 30 by 2016. The aircraft operate services to cities including Chongqing, Ganzhou and Guiyang,
Each aircraft is fitted with six tyres – two on the nose wheel and four on the main wheels.
“This is another significant export order that builds on our growing success in the Asia Pacific region,&rdquo said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We will provide China Express Airlines with new tyres that have been made at our factory in the UK. They will be then distributed from and retreaded at our joint venture facility in Jinjiang, China.
“By making use of our operation in Jinjiang, the airline will be able to return tyres for retreading at a facility that is efficient and that is ideally located for quick and easy shipping to and from its hub airports.”
Dunlop exports more than 80 per cent of its UK-made products and in 2011 won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for its international sales success.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres is celebrating ten years of successfully supporting operators of Embraer E-170 and E-175 regional aircraft.
When the aircraft first entered commercial service with LOT Polish Airlines in March 2004, the jet flew on Dunlop tyres and, today, despite increased competition, the Birmingham, UK-based manufacturer remains the leading supplier of tyres for operators all around the world.
Among the major fleets being supported by Dunlop Aircraft Tyres is that operated by Republic Airlines in the United States.
Republic is the largest operator of Embraer E-170s and E-175s, with over 150 in service and a further 22 on order. They are used on behalf of airlines including America Eagle, Delta Air Lines and Shuttle America.
“Ten years ago, our tyres were used by LOT Polish Airlines when the airline flew the first commercial Embraer 170 service from Warsaw to Vienna,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We are proud that, since then, we have not only retained the airline’s business but that we have maintained our market-leading position on the aircraft and continue to support the world’s largest fleets.
“This has been achieved through delivering operators a competitive cost of ownership and strong after-sales support, including the successful introduction of new, radial nosewheel tyres for the aircraft which offer increased landing life and reduced weight.”
Dunlop tyres are fitted to the majority of the Embraer 170 and 175 aircraft in service, including the large fleets operated by Air Canada, Compass Airlines, EgyptAir Express Flybe, LOT Polish Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines and Trip.
The company exports more than 80 per cent of its UK-made products and in 2011 won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for its international sales success.
Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has expanded its team with the appointment of Patrice Moreau as general sales manager for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Reporting to sales and marketing director David Skepper, Patrice joins with more than 19 years’ experience in commercial and business aviation.
Patrice started at Bombardier Aerospace where he successfully concluded the sales of the company’s first Dash 8 Q400 and CRJ700 regional aircraft while the programmes were still in their design phases.
He also spent nine years supporting Bombardier’s business aviation division, working with civilian and military operators as well as MROs around the world. More recently, he was commercial manager, continental Europe, for Barnes Aerospace in Derby, UK.
“Patrice will be responsible for supporting a team of technical sales managers who are at the coalface winning new business and ensuring that we continue to satisfy existing customers,” said David Skepper.
“We are confident that his leadership skills and vast aerospace industry sales experience will enable the company to build on its recent success in the both the commercial and military sectors.”
Dunlop, the world’s only dedicated aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, exports more than 80 per cent of its UK-made products and in 2011 won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for its international sales success.
Goodyear Dunlop has announced the closure of their motorsport facility in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres is in no way connected to Goodyear Dunlop and there are no changes to the operation of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres. With recent investment in new machinery, the award of a £1.5m government grant for new product development and ongoing recruitment, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres continues to thrive and grow.
Stephen Ray has joined Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres as financial director.
He replaces Oliver Burns who worked at the company for six years. Before moving to Dunlop, Stephen spent 13 years at LINPAC Group, a producer of plastic packaging for the retail, catering, manufacturing, packing and food sectors.
In his most recent role at LINPAC, Stephen was group chief financial officer of the £1bn turnover business.
Among his successes at LINPAC were the transition from being a family-owned business to a private equity owned group and, over the last two years, the divestment of four of LINPAC’s five divisions.
Before working there, Stephen held a number of senior financial roles at publicly listed companies including Ferguson International and Elswick. Stephen is a chartered accountant who qualified at Ernst & Young in Birmingham.
“We’re delighted to welcome Stephen at an exciting time for the business,&rdquo said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“Dunlop’s commitment to product development and geographic expansion has paid dividends and the company continues to grow in many sectors, including regional airliners and military transport aircraft.”
Expanding Birmingham-based manufacturer Dunlop Aircraft Tyres will this week complete a £4 million factory investment programme when it switches on another new production machine that will further improve efficiency and increase capacity.
The company, which now exports 80 per cent of the products it manufactures at its Fort Dunlop site, has doubled in size in the last five years and it has recently added a number of new semi-automated production machines to satisfy the rising demand for its products.
As part of its capacity expansion programme, the company acquired tyre manufacturing and testing equipment from Japanese tyre manufacturer Yokohama Rubber Company when the firm pulled out of the aircraft tyre industry in 2010.
Together, the new production and testing machines increase Dunlop’s new tyre output by 15 per cent, with most of this expansion focused on supporting operators of popular regional aircraft manufactured by Bombardier and Embraer.
The equipment will also be used to produce tyres for Boeing 737 Next-Generation aircraft, of which there are currently more than 4,300 in service.
“We have made a significant investment in our factory because we very much believe in the future of manufacturing here in Birmingham,” said the company’s chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“Every forecast suggests that commercial air travel is going to continue to expand and we are ensuring that we are well placed to take advantage of that by increasing our manufacturing capacity and developing new, innovative products.”
Earlier this year, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres showcased a range of new tyres at the Paris Air Show and it has recently announced new contracts with airlines including Flybe and Travel Service Airlines.
Last year, the company’s joint venture facility in Jinjiang, China signed a three-year deal to support China Eastern Airlines’ fleet of ten Embraer 145LI regional jets with new and retreaded tyres.
Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has secured a £1.5 million government grant to develop and test next-generation aircraft tyres that will be lighter and more robust.
The three-year project, which is being run in collaboration with Airbus, will see the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader focus on developing main-wheel radial tyres designed for current and future versions of the A320 family of aircraft.
With fuel costs and environmental pressures increasing, airframers are keen to find new ways to reduce the weight of their aircraft while making them even more robust and they expect component manufacturers, including those producing tyres, to support them in this drive
The project, which in total will cost more than £3 million, is being overseen by Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chief designer, Steve Barlow.
“We are following a phased process which will allow us to innovate with new materials and modelling techniques before designing a new product,” he said.
“We will be investing in new manufacturing and testing equipment and plan to have the first prototype tyres ready by 2014.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson, added: “I believe that manufacturing has a bright future in the UK – the fact that we have been able to double our revenues in five years and export 80 per cent of the products we make in Birmingham is a clear indicator of this.
“This grant signals the UK government’s commitment to helping small and medium-sized businesses to prosper in the global aerospace industry.
“We have a history spanning more than 100 years, but it is only through research that Dunlop Aircraft Tyres aims not just to keep pace with but to leapfrog its competitors.”
The £1.5 million grant was awarded to Dunlop Aircraft Tyres by the Government’s Technology Strategy Board, the UK innovation agency briefed with accelerating economic growth by stimulating and supporting business-led innovation.
Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has landed a long-term contract to provide new and retreaded tyres to Czech Republic carrier Travel Service Airlines.
The tyres will support Travel Service Airlines’ fleet of 23 Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft, as well as four B737NGs operating for its low-cost subsidiary SmartWings.
Dunlop, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer, will supply tyres for the nose and main wheels of the aircraft, which operate on routes throughout Europe and Africa on charter and scheduled services.
“We have had a strong first half to the year,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson. “Travel Service Airlines is the latest in a number of carriers that have placed new orders, not only in Europe but in Asia Pacific and the Americas as well.
“With more than 4,500 Boeing 737NGs in service, this is one of the most successful airliners of all time and it is reassuring that major operators like Travel Service Airlines recognise the low cost of ownership that our tyres provide.”
Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, has built on its long-standing relationship with Dunlop Aircraft Tyres by selecting the Birmingham-based company to support its expanding fleet of Embraer jets.
Dunlop has won an exclusive five-year deal to supply new and retreaded nose and mainwheel tyres for Flybe’s fleet of Embraer 175 aircraft and radial nosewheel tyres for the carrier’s Embraer 195s.
Flybe operates 14 Embraer 195s and has so far taken delivery of nine Embraer 175s, with a further 26 of the aircraft on firm order.
“For many years we have supported Flybe with tyres for its large fleet of Bombardier Q400 turboprops,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“This significant contract to provide tyres and retreading for the airline’s fleet of regional jets further strengthens our market-leading position on Embraer E-Jets.”
Dunlop tyres are currently fitted to the majority of the Embraer 170 and 175 aircraft in service, including the large fleets operated by Air Canada, Compass Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, Republic Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Shuttle America and Trip.
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopOperators of the A400M military transport aircraft will benefit from new foreign object damage (FOD) resistance tyre technology that has been developed by Dunlop Aircraft Tyres (Hall 2B, stand G188).
Dunlop tyres will be fitted to the first Airbus Military A400M transport aircraft which is due to be delivered to the French Air Force, as well as the EADS aircraft being displayed today at the Paris Air Show.
Dunlop’s new tyre features the proven sidewall FOD resistance of bias tyres, which are more suited to operations from semi and unprepared airstrips, as well as advanced materials designed to give improved protection in the tread area.
“Our new tyres for the A400M are an example of Dunlop continuing to push the boundaries in both civil and military tyre technology,” said the company’s chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“They build on our experience in the military sector and will help protect the aircraft when it operates to and from unprepared airstrips.”
More than 170 Airbus Military A400M transport aircraft have been ordered by Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Spain, Turkey and the UK and will be delivered on Dunlop Tyres.
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopDunlop Aircraft Tyres (Hall 2B, stand G188), the world’s only dedicated aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, is using the Paris Air Show to showcase new tyres for popular regional and single-aisle airliners.
Among the new products being exhibited on the company’s stand are radial mainwheel tyres for Embraer 170 regional jets and ATR 72 turboprops.
For operators of the 4,300 Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft in service around the world, Dunlop is showing the latest version of its mainwheel tyre that, according to some large carriers, delivers very competitive operating costs.
“Dunlop has a successful track record on regional airliners and already supplies tyres to support the vast majority of Embraer E-Jets in service around the world,” said the company’s chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We are now building on this success by providing a wider choice of tyres for airlines operating this aircraft and, within the coming months, we will become even more competitive in the regional aircraft marketplace with the launch the of the ATR-72 tyre.”
“In addition, an increasing number of Boeing 737NG operators are using our new and retreaded tyres on their aircraft.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, which exports more than 80 per cent of the products it makes at its Birmingham manufacturing facility, won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2011 for its international sales success.
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopDunlop Aircraft Tyres’ joint venture facility in Jinjiang, China has won a three-year deal to support China Eastern Airlines’ fleet of ten Embraer 145LI regional jets with new and retreaded tyres.
The deal will see the Shanghai-based airline receive new tyres made at Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ factory in Birmingham, England that will be distributed from and retreaded at the manufacturer’s joint venture company, Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres.
“Our tyre distribution and retread facility in China is going from strength-to-strength and we have now secured business with a number of major airlines in the region” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman and managing director, Ian Edmondson.
“This is our first deal with a significant Chinese airline and it further strengthens our position in the regional aircraft market, where we have a fantastic history of supporting the most popular jet and turboprop airliners.”
Airlines from countries including Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Philippines and Taiwan are among those being served by Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres.
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopDunlop Aircraft Tyres is to build on its success in the Americas by offering its entire range of narrow and wide bodied aircraft tyres to operators throughout the region.
Until now, Dunlop, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre company, has provided tyres to operators of regional jets and turboprop aeroplanes in the Americas through an approved distribution network.
But it is now building on its presence in the region with a strategic deal, under which Houston-based Triplett Aerospace will store and distribute tyres for popular narrow and wide bodied aircraft throughout the Americas.
“Triplett already handles logistics and warehousing of aircraft tyres and provides related industry services,” said Ken Hutchins, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ technical sales manager for the Americas.
“Our agreement provides an effective path for us to build on our success in the regional jet and turboprop markets by supporting narrow and wide bodied fleets across the region.
“The success of these tyres is already proven in Europe and Asia Pacific. In Europe, for example, we support more Boeing 757s than any other tyre company and have deals with carriers including DHL, Icelandair, Thomas Cook and Thomson Airways.”
Among the airlines in the Americas currently using Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ products are a number of operators of Bombardier and Embraer aircraft, on the back of Dunlop’s relationship with the two airframers.
Operators wanting to discuss Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ products in the Americas should contact Ken Hutchins at Ken.Hutchins@dunlopatl.co.uk or call +1 281 853 4343.
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopA scientist at Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has been recognised for his work in developing a new tread compound that could increase the tyre life and reduce operating costs for airlines around the world.
James O’Callaghan, 26, from Erdington received the Sue Panteny Award from the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.
While developing the new compound, James studied one-day a week for a polymer technology degree at Staffordshire University, which, after three years, he passed with first class honours last summer.
The new compound reduces the heat build up of the tyre and increases its abrasive resistance. Following extensive internal testing, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres will initiate controlled trials across various aircraft across Europe before deciding whether to incorporate it into new products.
“I’m delighted that another one of our employees has been recognised for their pioneering work,” said Ian Edmondson, chairman, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres.
“We work in a competitive marketplace and it is through continual innovation that we will remain at the forefront of the aircraft tyre industry.
“Tyre manufacturers face constant pressure to improve performance and reduce aircraft operators’ costs. James’ work shows how we continue to lead the way in this field.
“I congratulate James on his first class honours degree and on securing this fantastic recognition from the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.”
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopDunlop Aircraft Tyres EMEA sales team will attend the annual Airline Purchasing & Maintenance Expo in the Grand Hall of London's Olympia Arena on the 4 - 6 May 2011. The expo is Europe's premier networking event for the commercial aviation after market.
Dunlop's staff can be found at stand R29, near one of the venue's coffee shops. The company recently won a prestigious Queen's Award for International Trade and has inked an important contract with Icelandair for supply of tyres for its Boeing 757 aircraft.
In June the company, which in 2010 celebrated it's centenary, will attend the 49th International Paris Air Show (June 20 - 26) and will be located in Hall 2B at stand G171.
Expo Website
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ international sales achievements have been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the international trade category.
Based in Birmingham with a rich history spanning over 100 years, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has been rewarded with the prestigious award following six consecutive years of growth in its international sales.
Earnings from overseas now account for almost 80 per cent of the company’s turnover, with Air Nostrum, Compass Airlines, Egyptair, Kenya Airways, Lion Air, Lufthansa, QantasLink, and Saudi Arabian Airlines among the growing list of operators using Dunlop’s products.
The company’s export market also includes military operators, airframe manufacturers as well as leading maintenance, repair and overhaul companies.
In 2009, the company reaffirmed its commitment to geographic expansion by developing a joint venture aircraft tyre distribution and retreading facility in China that is being used to effectively serve the expanding Asia Pacific marketplace.
In addition, investment in new products for aircraft including E-Jets, the Q400 and the CRJ NextGen family plus development of radial products have helped Dunlop Aircraft Tyres sustain its export growth.
“We are delighted that our achievements have been recognised with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. It is a great honour for both the company and the people that work here,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We continue to face intense international competition but are investing in an ambitious expansion plan that has already included the opening of our facility in Asia Pacific and acquisition of new production and testing equipment.
“This will help the company expand its geographic presence and bring new radial products to market, including tyres for the Airbus A320 and Boeing 777.”
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopDunlop Aircraft Tyres has further strengthened its position as a leading provider of tyres to Boeing 757-200 operators by landing a deal to support 28 aircraft that are maintained by Icelandair Technical Services.
The five-year agreement covers both the supply of new tyres and retreading for a fleet of 16 aircraft operated by Icelandair on passenger and cargo routes, as well as 12 757-200s flown by airlines in the Nordics and Russia.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre company, also supports major European 757-200 operators including DHL, First Choice Airways and Thomas Cook.
“I’m delighted that we have strengthened our market share with this significant deal,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“It means we now support more Boeing 757-200 aircraft in Europe than any other tyre company, which is testament to the great quality of our products and service.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, which last year celebrated 100 years of world class aircraft tyre manufacturing, is investing in both geographic and product expansion.
It has opened a new tyre distribution and retreading facility in China and recently bought additional product testing and manufacturing equipment that will be used to enable the company to bring new radial tyres to market.
Media Enquiries: Contact John Butters, Tel: +44 (0)1625 506 434
Back To TopManufacturing and testing equipment bought to enable Dunlop Aircraft Tyres to strengthen its position in the global aircraft tire marketplace has arrived and is being installed at the company’s manufacturing plant in Birmingham.
Dunlop acquired the equipment from The Yokohama Rubber Company after the firm, which has a strong reputation in Japan for manufacturing and retreading aircraft tires, withdrew its brand from this sector of the market.
The testing equipment, which includes a dynamometer machine, is expanding Dunlop’s in-house capability and capacity so that the company can further accelerate its new product development and bring aviation tires to market more quickly.
Alongside this, the additional manufacturing capacity will support Dunlop Aircraft Tyres by enabling the company to accelerate its activity in the radial tire marketplace.
“By acquiring this equipment we will enhance our global manufacturing capability and put Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in a strong position to expand its product range,” said the company’s chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“Yokohama has an excellent reputation in Japan with products developed to meet a harsh operating environment and these include tyres for Boeing 777s that are heavily utilised on domestic services.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, which last year celebrated 100 years of world class aircraft tire manufacturing, recently opened a new tire distribution and retreading facility in China.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has boosted its global presence with the appointment of a new technical sales manager for the Americas.
Ken Hutchins joins the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer with a wealth of experience in the aviation industry, having previously worked for aircraft wheels and brakes companies Goodrich and Messier-Bugatti.
Based in Houston, Texas, and reporting to Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ sales and marketing director David Skepper, Ken will drive sales of the company’s products throughout North America and the fast-expanding South American markets.
“Ken’s appointment is a key part of our strategy to grow our international business,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“With Ken’s support we will be looking to become an even stronger force across North America, the world’s largest commercial aircraft market and we are also excited about developing a presence in South America.”
During the last 18 months, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has opened a distribution and retreading facility in China to cater for the market in Asia Pacific and expanded its new product testing and production capability by acquiring equipment from The Yokohama Rubber Company.
The company has also expanded its product range with new radial and bias tyres for a number of commercial aeroplanes, including the ATR42 regional turboprop as well as the CRJ1000 Next Gen regional jet.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres today announced it has secured a major deal with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to be the exclusive supplier of tyres for its new Korean Utility Helicopter (KUH) – Surion.
The aircraft is being developed to replace South Korea’s aging fleet of 500MD and UH-1H aircraft. The Surion made its first flight early in 2010 and more than 245 are on order.
Its missions will include aerial assault, troops and logistics transport, search and rescue and command and control. Technology used in the programme will also be used by KAI to develop a new commercial helicopter.
“This order builds on our relationship with KAI, a growing aerospace company that develops a range of rotary and fixed-wing military and civilian aircraft,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We have worked with KAI as the exclusive supplier of nose tyres for its KTI military trainer, more than 100 of which are in service. It is testament to the quality of our product and service that we have won another exclusive deal with the manufacturer.
“This agreement with KAI will further strengthen the Dunlop brand within the Asian aerospace industry, where we have opened a new tyre distribution and retreading facility to serve the Asia Pacific region.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre company, has appointed Marcus Hancock as technical director.
Marcus has 21 years’ experience in the tyre industry and joins Dunlop from Cooper Tire & Rubber Company Europe, where he was general manager for the company’s European Technical Centre with responsibility for overseeing all product development for the region.
Over recent months, Dunlop has expanded its product range with new radial and bias tyres for a number of commercial aeroplanes, including the ATR42 and ATR72 regional turboprops as well as the CRJ1000 Next Gen regional jet.
The company is also looking to increase its presence in the wide-body aircraft marketplace following the acquisition last year of production and testing equipment from The Yokohoma Rubber Company.
“Marcus comes to us with vast technical and production experience that will help as we look to enhance our existing product range and develop tyres for aircraft we don’t currently support,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman Ian Edmondson.
The company’s former technical director Martin Pye has moved into a new role as head of original equipment sales, helping Dunlop to further strengthen its relationship and secure new business with customers, including airframers and landing gear manufacturers.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre company, is celebrating the end of its centenary year with news that it has won a major deal to support Air Nostrum’s new fleet of Bombardier CRJ1000 Next Gen regional jets.
Air Nostrum, based in Valencia, Spain, operates as a franchise of Iberia Airlines and has 20 of the new aircraft on order, with options on a further 15. This will be the largest fleet of CRJ1000s in the world and Air Nostrum will take delivery of its first aircraft later this month.
The agreement will see Dunlop Aircraft Tyres supply the two nosewheel and four mainwheel tyres for each of the 100-seat aircraft.
“Air Nostrum’s agreement builds on our long-standing relationship with the airline and our success in the regional aircraft marketplace. It is a fantastic way for us to close our centenary year”, said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We have had a great centenary year. We saw new orders from major aircraft operators, investment in people and equipment to boost our radial tyre production and testing capability, a visit from HRH The Duke of York and a brilliant celebration at Farnborough Air Show.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has a strong relationship with Bombardier, which includes supplying the entire Dash 8 turboprop range.
The company also supplies, under a supplemental type certificate (STC), tyres for all other CRJ variants.
Europe’s largest operator of CRJ700 and CRJ900 aircraft, Lufthansa, relies on Dunlop’s products, while the Birmingham, UK-based company also supports a number of other airlines around the world.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre company, has strengthened its research, quality and production teams with three key appointments.
Dr Aditya Deshpande joins in the newly-created role of finite element analyst. Part of the company’s research team, Aditya is responsible for using this powerful design and analysis tool to accelerate the introduction of next generation aircraft tyres into the market.
He joins from the University of Nottingham, where he had been a research fellow and had been involved in projects with BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce.
Meanwhile, Dave Smith, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ new quality manager, arrives from Dana Spicer Axles with responsibility for all areas of quality assurance including system and regulatory management, health and safety and training.
His first major tasks involve assessing the company’s current quality system and establishing opportunities for improvement, identifying the composition of a new system and then facilitating and project managing the change throughout the company.
Finally, a new factory technical manager has been appointed to focus on optimising the company’s production processes to ensure that aircraft tyres are manufactured in the most efficient way.
Jeremy Braisier-Creagh was previously production manager at medical home care and mobility products manufacturer Sunrise Medical and he started his engineering career in Dunlop Tyres’ commercial vehicle division.
“These appointments reaffirm our commitment to expansion through innovation,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman Ian Edmondson.
“While we have been celebrating our proud history during the company’s centenary this year, we have also been very much looking to the future and have made several significant investments in new people and equipment.
“These latest appointments will help us be at the leading-edge of product design with our eye firmly on quality and the efficient manufacturing of new tyres.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ apprentice Adam Cox was highly commended for his work at EEF’s Future Manufacturing Awards in Gaydon yesterday.
Cox, 23, was named runner-up in the Outstanding Achievement by a Final Year Apprentice Award for his work in the design of aircraft tyres for some of the world’s newest civil and military aeroplanes.
“I’m thrilled to have come second out of more than 100 applicants,” said Adam. “The judges were particularly impressed with my determination to develop a career in engineering.
“I have had fantastic support from Dunlop Aircraft Tyres during my apprenticeship, including the opportunity to travel to Canada, Japan and the United States to attend meetings and conferences.
“I also had the great pleasure of meeting during HRH The Duke of York during his visit to the factory to celebrate the company’s centenary.
“I very much enjoy working in the aviation sector and playing my part in the development of one of the most important components of the aircraft.”
Reporting directly to Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ technical director Martin Pye, Adam has worked on the development of new tyres for aircraft including the new Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jet.
“We’re proud that against stiff competition from across the Midlands, Adam was named runner up for the award,” said Pye.
“Like all businesses, we compete for the best young talent and I’m delighted that our apprentice scheme has provided the foundation for Adam to achieve so much so early in his career.”
Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, which is this year celebrating its centenary,
welcomed HRH The Duke of York to its head office and manufacturing site in
Erdington on Monday 7th June 2010.
The Duke of York toured the company’s offices, factory and testing facility, where new products are being developed for aircraft including the Embraer E-Jets family, the Airbus A320, the Eurofighter and Airbus Military A400M transport aircraft.
Prince Andrew was told about Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ achievements both at home and overseas and he discovered how he might be able to support this major exporter in his role as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment.
At the end of his visit, HRH The Duke of York, who flew Dunlop-equipped Lynx and Sea King helicopters as well as Bulldog light aircraft during his time as a Royal Navy pilot, unveiled a plaque and was presented with a commemorative tail tyre from a Spitfire aircraft.
“We feel honored that HRH The Duke of York was able to visit us during our centenary celebrations,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“The Duke showed great interest in our success as a major exporter and our continued investment in new products for civil and military aircraft.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres recently opened a new joint venture distribution and retreading facility in China and it has invested in additional manufacturing and testing equipment so that it can increase production and develop new products at its site in Birmingham.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has landed a three-year contract worth over £1m with low-cost airline bmibaby.
The agreement will see the Birmingham-based manufacturer, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre company, exclusively supply the airline with nose wheel and main wheel tyres for its fleet of Boeing 737-300s and 737-500s.
bmibaby, a subsidiary of British Midland Limited, operates services from the UK to holiday and business destinations across Europe. The company is a long-standing Dunlop Aircraft Tyres customer and under this new agreement the airline will receive new and retreaded tyres.
“Naturally we are delighted to win all contracts, but it is especially rewarding to retain important customers such as bmibaby,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We operate in a competitive marketplace and can only secure this level of business with major airlines by continually delivering excellent, reliable products and strong after-sales support.
“This contract is not only a vote of confidence in Dunlop’s ability to deliver in the future but also acknowledges our success to date.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres is strengthening its position in the global aircraft tyre marketplace with the acquisition of testing and manufacturing equipment from The Yokohama Rubber Company, Limited.
Last year, Yokohama, which has a strong reputation in Japan for manufacturing radial and bias tyres, announced that it was withdrawing the Yokohama brand name from the aircraft tyre business.
Under this agreement announced today, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres will acquire Yokohama’s radial and bias new tyre manufacturing and testing equipment, including an additional dynamometer that will enable the company to bring new products to market more quickly.
The move will expand Dunlop’s manufacturing capacity so that the Birmingham-based company can further boost its range with products such as radial main tyres for the Boeing 777.
“Yokohama has an excellent reputation in Japan with products developed to meet a harsh operating environment,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson. “These include tyres for Boeing 777s that are heavily utilised on domestic services.
“By acquiring Yokohama’s equipment we are enhancing our global manufacturing capability and putting Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in a strong position to expand its comprehensive product range.
“We are aiming to have the equipment up and running in our UK manufacturing facility within a few months.”
“This agreement means that Yokohama’s former aircraft tyre customers will continue to have the opportunity to benefit from bias and radial tyre products under the internationally recognised Dunlop brand name” said Ian Edmondson.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, which this year celebrates 100 years of world class aircraft tyre manufacturing has recently opened a new tyre distribution and retreading facility in China.
Military aircraft operators could soon benefit from new FOD (foreign object damage) resistance tyre technology that has been developed by Dunlop Aircraft Tyres (stand T109) and that is being used for the first time on the new A400M.
The tyres feature the better sidewall FOD resistance of bias tyres, which are more suited to operations from semi and unprepared airstrips, as well as advanced materials designed to give improved protection in the tread area.
“With over 100 years history of specialising in aircraft tyre manufacturing and retreading, we have built considerable experience of pushing the boundaries in both civil and military tyre technology,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“These new tyres for the A400M are an example of that. They build on our experience in the military sector and will help protect the aeroplane when it operates to and from unprepared airstrips.”
A total of 184 Airbus Military A400M transport aircraft have been ordered by Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Spain, Turkey and the UK.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres (stand T109) is celebrating its centenary with its first ever appearance at the Singapore Airshow, where it is promoting new tyres for a range of aeroplanes and the joint venture tyre distribution and retreading facility that it recently opened in China.
The world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, which is 100 years old this year, is showing new tyres for the Airbus A320, ATR72, Boeing 737NG and Embraer 190 aircraft.
It is also highlighting the benefits it can provide by offering a tyre retreading service in Jinjiang, Fujian Province. The operation there has full site and product approval from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and full repair-station approval from EASA.
“Airlines can now have their tyres retreaded at a facility that is ideally located for the quick and easy shipping of tyres to and from anywhere in Asia Pacific,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“This distribution and retreading capability means we have a compelling offer for aircraft operators in Asia Pacific and we are attending the Singapore Airshow for the first time as we celebrate our centenary and focus on achieving significant growth in the region.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres (stand T109) announced on the opening day of the Singapore Airshow 2010 that Mandarin Airlines has become the first customer to use its new distribution and retreading facility in China.
The three-year deal will see Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres Company Limited provide bias tyres for the Taipei-based carrier’s fleet of eight E-190/195s.
“We opened our facility just weeks ago and I’m delighted that we have already gained interest from operators in the region and also, in that short time, to have reached this agreement with Mandarin Airlines,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“The facility enables airlines to return tyres for retreading at an operation that is efficient and that is ideally located for quick and easy shipping of tyres to and from the region.”
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres opened its new retread and distribution facility in November, boosting the company’s competitiveness in the global aviation marketplace and bringing increased tyre choice to aircraft operators in Asia Pacific.
It operates as Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres Company Limited and is a joint venture with Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO) (28%) and Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (TAECO) (9%).
Based in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, the operation has full site and product approval from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and the site has also received full repair-station approval from EASA.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has been selected by Bombardier, as an alternate tyre source, to support after-market needs for the new 100-seat CRJ1000 Next Gen regional jet.
The aircraft, which is due to enter service at the end of 2010 with a range of up to 1,691 nautical miles and maximum take off weight of 41,640kg, has notched up firm orders with carriers including Adria Airways and Brit Air. Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, one of two approved suppliers for the CRJ1000 aircraft, will manufacture and retread the tyres at its facility in Birmingham, UK – a site which is ideally located to provide excellent support for the aircraft’s initial customers. The company’s deal to provide CRJ1000 nose and main wheel tyres builds on its long-standing relationship with Bombardier. This includes supplying the entire Dash 8 range. Dunlop also supplies, under a supplemental type certificate (STC), tyres for all other CRJ variants.
The CRJ is the best-selling family of regional jets and more than 1,500 have already been delivered. Europe’s largest CRJ operator, Lufthansa, relies on Dunlop’s products, while the Birmingham, UK-based company also supports a number of other airlines around the world.
“No other company provides such a complete range for Bombardier’s regional aircraft than Dunlop Aircraft Tyres,” said the company’s chairman, Ian Edmondson. “Our CRJ tyres have proven landing life and excellent retreadability, providing operators with an attractive cost of ownership. We are delighted to have the opportunity to build on our relationship with Bombardier by supporting the CRJ1000 Next Gen aircraft.”
Back to topDunlop Aircraft Tyres today opened its new retread and distribution facility in China, boosting the company’s competitiveness in the global aviation marketplace and bringing increased tyre choice to aircraft operators in Asia Pacific.
The facility, operating as Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres Company Limited, is a joint venture with Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO) (28%) and Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (TAECO) (9%). Based in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, the operation has full site and product approval from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). The site has also received full repair-station approval from EASA. In addition to the retreading of aircraft tyres, the facility will support customers in Asia Pacific by distributing new tyres that have been made at Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ manufacturing site in Birmingham, UK.
“We are the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer and this new facility enables us to distribute our range of high quality tyres throughout Asia Pacific,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson. “Airlines will be able to return tyres for retreading at an operation that is efficient and that is ideally located for quick and easy shipping to and from the region. “By partnering with the region’s highly regarded engineering companies, HAECO and TAECO, we will be able to quickly access this significant and growing market.”
P.K. Chan, deputy chairman and chief executive officer of HAECO and chairman of TAECO, added: “I’m delighted that we have been able to enter into partnership with Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, build this facility and gain CAAC and EASA approvals in such a short period of time. “Tyre retreading will enhance the service we provide to current and future airline customers in the Asia Pacific region.”
Back to topOperators of Embraer 190s and 195s can look forward to reduced fuel burn and lower engineering costs following the launch at the International Paris Air Show 2009 of new radial tyres for the successful regional aircraft.
The new nosewheel and mainwheel tyres have been developed by Birmingham, UK-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres (hall 2B, stand H110), the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer.
The company was originally selected by Embraer as its tyre supplier during the development of the E-190/195 aircraft, for which bias tyres were produced.
But given the long-term trend for increasing fuel costs and environmental concerns, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has now invested in developing radials that are lower weight compared to traditional bias tyres.
This will translate into reduced fuel burn, limiting the cost and environmental impact of E-190/195 flights.
Furthermore, the tyres feature improved wear rates. This will enable operators to achieve an increased number of landings from each set of tyres, thereby helping to drive down cost of ownership.
Dunlop’s move is part of the company’s continuous and ambitious growth plan and ensures that it remains competitive throughout the commercial and military aerospace sectors.
“E-Jets represent a key market for us and these new products reflect our commitment to remaining the number one tyre choice for their operators,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“Our radial tyres deliver financial savings and their reduced wear rate means that operators can cut maintenance costs by limiting the frequency of wheel changes.”
There are more than 250 Embraer 190 and 195 aircraft in service today, with a firm order backlog of almost 300.
Back to topDunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres Company has appointed KK Chan as general manager of its state-of-the-art retreading and new tyre distribution facility in China.
The company is a joint venture with Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, HAECO (Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company) and TAECO (Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company).
Based in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, the company’s new facility will support customers in Asia Pacific. It is already distributing new tyres throughout the region and is going through the approvals process to start retreading.
“KK will provide the leadership and focus that is required to help build our market share in Asia Pacific and to make us a force in aircraft tyre retreading in the region,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“This facility will provide aircraft operators and MROs with greater choice of tyres and, for the first time, local retreading in China at a site that is ideally located for quick and easy shipping to and from most parts of the region.”
Holding an MBA, KK Chan joins Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres Company with an impressive track record at major European companies operating in China. Most recently, he had been chief executive officer of a China-based subsidiary of DeLonghi and Kenwood.
Back to topDunlop Aircraft Tyres has appointed Dr Wei Ding into a newly-created position as head of research.
Wei is tasked with developing and implementing a research strategy that will help the Birmingham-based manufacturer to further enhance its products and bring next generation aircraft tyres to market.
He reports to Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ technical director Martin Pye and joins the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer from Airbus, where he was project manager for tyre research and was team leader for tyre and brake modelling and simulation.
“This newly created position is an important part of our expansion strategy,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“We are looking to get closer to the airframe constructors and Wei’s background will mean that we are better placed to develop new products that meet their future needs.”
Wei is a chartered engineer and before joining Airbus he worked as a senior engineer in the automotive tyre industry. Before this Wei was a research fellow at Birmingham University’s Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Materials Processing.
He lives in Birmingham and is married with a daughter. Outside work, he plays badminton, table tennis and practises Tai Chi.
Wei’s appointment is the latest investment at Dunlop Aircraft Tyres. The company is also establishing a new retreading facility in China that will open early next year and has recently launched a number of new products for aircraft including the Boeing 737 Next-Generation.
AAC Capital Partners, formerly the private equity business of ABN Amro, acquired 74.6 per cent ownership of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in May 2007.
Back to topDunlop Aircraft Tyres’ exhibition at Farnborough International Airshow 2008 was a great success.. The company, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer, used the first day of the exhibition to unveil some exciting new tyres that are currently under development.
Dunlop’s new tyre development programme, which follows the recent approval of its new tyres for Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft, is part of a continuous and ambitious growth plan which will ensure that it remains competitive throughout the commercial and military aerospace sectors.
Commenting on the success of the show, Ian Edmondson, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, said:“Staff and management met with many valued customers and contacts who showed healthy interest in our growing range of aircraft tyres.”
Back to topSix tyre production operatives and a supervisor, the first recruits for Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ new retreading operation in China, are set to return to the country following the completion of a training course in Birmingham that has prepared them for the opening of the facility.
Zhang Gong Kai, Xie Lin Jun, Chen Yang Wei, Wang Qian Kun, Lin Xian Ze, Yang Xi Kun and Chen Sheng Feng have spent six months training at the company’s new tyre manufacturing and retreading site in Erdington.
While in England the new recruits have been given full training to ensure that they can successfully replicate the plant’s best practice when the operation in Jinjiang opens early next year.
Dunlop Taikoo (Jinjiang) Aircraft Tyres Company Limited is a joint venture between Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO) and Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (TAECO).
The facility will support airlines based in the Asia Pacific region by distributing new tyres that have been manufactured in Birmingham and by providing a retread service.
Retreading helps airlines maximise their investment in tyres and is an integral part of the procurement process. By having local capability in China, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres will be able to increase its share of the growing Asia Pacific market.
“Work has already started on the construction of the facility and our first recruits have been in Birmingham preparing for next year’s opening,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson “I am very pleased with the progress that we are making.
“The investment will help us strengthen our business in the Asian Pacific market, which we estimate as being worth $100 million. We also hope that the ability to retread locally will encourage more airlines there to purchase new tyres that we have made in Birmingham.”
AAC Capital Partners, formerly the private equity business of ABN Amro, acquired 74.6 per cent ownership of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in May 2007.
Back to topThe Farnborough Airshow will open its doors for the 60th time on the 14th July 2008. Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited, a regular exhibitor at the event, will be in attendance in Hall 4 at Stand E14.
The stand will feature exhibits of Dunlop’s range of new and existing civil and military aircraft tyres. Senior management, sales and technical personnel will be in attendance throughout the event and are looking forward to meeting old friends and new faces.
The exhibition, celebrating its diamond jubilee will be biggest ever in terms of ground coverage and exhibitor presence. A particular highlight of the exhibition is always the flying displays. This year, the historic Vulcan, proudly equipped with tyres manufactured by Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, will perform a flypast which is sure to be popular with visitors.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres extends an invitation to all colleagues in the industry to visit the stand between the 14th and 20th July.
Back to topDunlop Aircraft Tyres today announced it has retained an exclusive deal worth over €2 million with maintenance company SR Technics - with potential to increase the business.
Under the three-year deal secured following a competitive tender from all four aircraft tyre manufacturers, Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres will supply its products to SR Technics maintenance bases across Europe and the Middle East.
The tyres will be fitted to Boeing and Fokker 100 aircraft. SR Technics’ bases which specialise in the maintenance of wheels, tyres and brakes will be the first to benefit from the agreement.
“We are delighted to have retained this business,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman Ian Edmondson. “While we are the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre company, we work in a highly competitive environment.
“Retaining this contract with SR Technics is very rewarding because it shows that we are delivering highly reliable products which are strongly supported by a customer focused business.”
SR Technics’ executive vice president, integrated supply chain management, Torsten Tamm added: “It is vital that our suppliers can deliver the product quality and service expected of the airlines that we support.
“During our long-standing relationship with Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, we have been pleased with the company’s commitment to meeting the needs of our business and its continued efforts to drive down cost of ownership.”
AAC Capital Partners, formerly the private equity business of ABN Amro, acquired 74.6 per cent ownership of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in May 2007.
Back to topDunlop Aircraft Tyres today announced it has received Boeing approval for three new tyres for the Boeing 737 Next Generation range of aircraft.
The move provides a welcome expansion of industry capacity to satisfy demand for tyres. With more than 2,400 Boeing 737NGs in service, and a backlog of over 2,000 on order, Boeing recently announced that it is stepping up the production rate of the aircraft.
The new products will enable Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, the world’s only specialist aircraft tyre manufacturer, to expand its share of the medium haul sector of the market.
This will be achieved through the introduction of two new main gear bias ply (cross ply) tyres and a new radial ply nose gear tyre.
“Our improved and expanded range of tyres for Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft will enable us to compete even harder in a market worth an estimated $50 million a year,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“Operators now have even greater choice of tyres. This will benefit airlines by introducing further competition for their business while also expanding product availability to support a growing market.
“A growing proportion of this market is located in the Asia Pacific rim. Our joint venture retreading facility with HAECO that is due to start operation in China next year will enable us to capture a significant share of the B737 Next Generation aircraft based in the region.”
AAC Capital Partners, formerly the private equity business of ABN Amro, acquired 74.6 per cent ownership of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in May 2007.
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Birmingham-based Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, the world’s only dedicated aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader, has recruited a new finance director who will play a major role in supporting the company’s expansion plans.
Oliver Burns, who started his career at Arthur Andersen, joins from First Technology plc, where he was group finance director. Before that, he held senior finance roles with Bunzl plc and BET plc.
“We were acquired by AAC Capital Partners earlier this year and we are using this opportunity to embark on a major international expansion programme,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“For example, the company is expanding into Asia with the investment in a new retreading facility that is expected to open in 2009. Oliver’s considerable experience of working with overseas manufacturing and service facilities will be a great asset.
“We are delighted to have attracted a heavyweight financial director with Oliver’s level of experience. He will be a great asset to the management team.”
Oliver, who heads a team of eight finance and information technology staff at Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, sees a great opportunity ahead of him.
“I was attracted to the company because of the challenge to develop and grow the business within the dynamic and expanding aerospace market,” he said.
AAC Capital Partners, formerly the private equity business of ABN Amro, acquired 74.6 per cent ownership of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in May 2007.
Back to topWith tyres in service on some of the most modern passenger aircraft in the world, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited continues to offer support to both airframers and airlines to get the maximum performance from their tyres.
Regular attendance at Supplier & Operator conferences enables prompt response to issues raised by airframers and operators alike and supports the closer working relationship.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited has recently been in attendance at the following conferences:
Bombardier Operator Conference
The bi-annual conference for CRJ operators reconvened in Montreal, Canada in June 2007 and provided the opportunity for Dunlop to promote the success of the recently introduced tyres for the CRJ700/900 family of aircraft.
Already widely recognised as a supplier of high quality tyres for the CRJ100/200 familiy of regional jets, the tyres for the CRJ700/900 family of aircraft are less well known having gained EASA and FAA approval through the STC route.
Well promoted in Europe, the Dunlop tyres for the CRJ700/900 aircraft are already in widespread use where the nose and main tyres have demonstrated very competitive cost of ownership through a combination of excellent retreadability combined with a competitive landing life.
Embraer Operators Conference 2007 (EOC07)
The European/Rest of World Embraer Operator Conference took place in September in Paris, France.
The conference addressed the needs of operators of both E-Jets and ERJ families of aircraft and Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited were in attendance to deal directly with any issues raised.
Sukhoi “Superjet100” Conference
Following the September 2007 roll out of the prototype aircraft, a meeting was held in Florence, Italy for suppliers to provide an update on the development of the aircraft type.
Plans were also outlined for the set up of a new company to oversee the after sales service and support given to operators of the Superjet100 aircraft throughout the world. This new company, Superjet International will be based in the Italian city of Venice.
Utilising experience gained in the manufacture of tyres for service on regional aircraft coupled with a high standard of customer support, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited have been selected by Sukhoi as one of the approved tyre suppliers for operation on this new aircraft type.
Back to topColin Marshall, VOC Logistics Manager:
As you will probably know by now, on Thursday 18th October 2007, XH558 had her first flight since 1993, when she flew into Bruntingthorpe, it has taken a long time, a lot of effort and a lot of money, but without your help and support, be it in the fields of technical, engineering, component supply and other other areas, too many to mention, this would not have been possible.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you personally, and on behalf of the Project, for all the support you have given us over the years. There are still more test flights to be carried out before we finally get the ‘Permit to fly, these will take place over the next couple of months.
We all now need to look to the future, how we are going to keep XH558 flying on the show circuit, over the next ten to fifteen years. Hopefully, I will be able to rely on the same help and support you have already given the project. I will be contacting you in the near future to discuss this ongoing support.
In the meantime please take a few moments out, appreciate the moment and take credit for your part in the return of XH558 back to the air.
Sincerely,
Colin.
Back to topKawasaki Heavy Industries has begun taxi tests of the C-X military transport and P-X maritime patrol aircraft, which were rolled out in a joint ceremony in July. The four-engined P-X is expected to fly in mid-September is to replace the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force's Kawasaki-built P-3C Orions, is powered by four XF7-10 turbofans. The C-X, which is to replace the Japan Air Self-Defence Force's Kawasaki C-1 tactical transports.
Back to topDunlop Aircraft Tyres today announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO) and Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (TAECO) to establish a tyre retreading facility in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, China. It is intended that a joint venture will be formed with Dunlop Aircraft Tyres as the majority partner and the new facility to be operational in early 2009.
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres currently has an integrated new tyre manufacturing and retreading facility in Birmingham, UK. Penetration of the Asian market has been restricted to date as retreading from Europe is uneconomic for airlines located in the Asia Pacific rim region.
“Commercial aviation is expanding rapidly across Asia, and aircraft manufacturers have recently increased their forecast of jet airliner deliveries because of the pace of growth across the region,” said Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ chairman, Ian Edmondson.
“The investment in this new facility will enable us to fully capitalise on our strong brand recognition and acceptance in the region by supporting airlines with a complete new tyre and retread service.
“We are also excited about the opportunity of working with HAECO, one of the world’s leading aircraft engineering companies. The company has a strong reputation and we are delighted to be partnering with them on this initiative.”
Back to topYou will see from the attached personal announcement that Stuart Smith will retire from his post as Managing Director of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited on Friday 31st August this year.
Stuart had indicated his desire to retire to spend more time with his family when the transition to the new company owners was completed; we feel that this will have been accomplished by the end of August.
Stuart has worked for Dunlop Aircraft Tyres for the past 9½ years, the last 4½ of which were in his current position.
In the time I have known him I have been much impressed with his grasp of the business, his wide experience in the Industry, his ability, dedication and energy, all of which have significantly contributed to making the company as successful as it is today, and for which I thank him.
On behalf of all of us and the Directors of the company, I wish him a long and enjoyable retirement.
From the end of the month I shall take on the role of Chairman and Managing Director.
I look forward, with the support of our customers, our employees and ABN Amro Capital, to build on the successes that Stuart’s leadership have brought and continue to develop our company, providing more outstanding products to an ever expanding market base around all major continents of the world.
Ian Edmondson
Chairman
Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited
Dear Friends, Colleagues and business associates,
After 46 years in the aerospace business working under the Dunlop banner in the sector of wheels, tyres, brakes, brake control and anti-skid systems I am retiring from the position of Managing Director DATL effective 31st August.
I have had a wonderfully interesting career encompassing many changes in the industry over the years and had the privilege to meet and work with talented and interesting people, many of whom I am lucky to count as good friends.
It is with some sadness that I leave my current position but look forward to a future with more free time to enjoy some relaxation with my family.
I leave DATL in the capable hands of Ian Edmondson, Chairman, DATL and its new owners ABN AMRO Capital and wish all at DATL a happy and prosperous future.
I would also like to thank everyone for the good times and happy memories and wish each and every one of you every success for the future.
Yours sincerely,
Stuart Smith
Managing Director Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Ltd
ABN AMRO Capital, the private equity business of ABN AMRO, has agreed to acquire Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Limited (“Dunlop”). ABN AMRO Capital will take a majority stake in the business with 74.6% ownership. The transaction is expected to complete in June subject to customary approvals. The Royal Bank of Scotland will provide senior debt facilities.
Dunlop specialises in the design, manufacture and testing of tyres, mainly for commercial aircraft. In its 90-year history the company has achieved worldwide recognition, focusing on the aviation industry with a comprehensive product range. Dunlop has over 500 approvals covering more than 276 different aircraft. These range from historic aircraft through to the latest generation of modern passenger carrying jet aircraft. Dunlop’s international customer base includes major international airlines, aircraft constructors, wheel and brake manufacturers and maintenance facilities. Based in Birmingham, the 270-strong skilled workforce produces over 100,000 tyres each year.
The world market for aircraft tyres in the segments addressed by Dunlop is currently estimated to be US$ 500 mln with the main drivers of growth in the market being air traffic, which has grown at an average rate of 6% pa since the 1970’s. This is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, with the Asian market growing more quickly in the next few years. Dunlop has a strong niche position as the only one of four global players to specialise solely in aircraft tyres. Regulation in the sector also creates very high barriers to entry, with Dunlop holding a strong, embedded position.
Patrick Bulmer, Dominic Collier and Grant Paul-Florence coordinated the investment on behalf of ABN AMRO Capital. Patrick and Dominic will join the board of Dunlop as non-executive directors. Ian Edmondson, formerly Vice President of Federal Mogul, will also join Dunlop as Chairman at completion.
Paul Southwell, Managing Partner of ABN AMRO Capital’s UK buyout team, said: “Dunlop is one of only four global manufacturers of aircraft tyres, with significant potential for growth internationally. We have considerable experience and knowledge of the aerospace industry and are attracted by its long-term growth characteristics and embedded technology. Dunlop occupies an important niche within aerospace, with a highly defensible position and an internationally recognised brand. We are keen to guide the business through the next stage in its development and look forward to working with management to realise that ambition.”
Stuart Smith, Group CEO of Dunlop, said: “Dunlop is a long-established company with a long heritage in designing and manufacturing the highest quality aircraft tyres. We are excited to be embarking on a new phase in the company’s history and are very pleased to have secured the support of a major financial institution. ABN AMRO Capital’s backing is a significant vote of confidence for everyone involved in taking the business forward and recognition for those who have contributed to our success so far.”
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