Rolls-Royce is using the latest handheld devices at EBACE to give visitors to its stand a unique way to learn about its engine offerings.

The UK manufacturer is stocking its stand with Apple iPads running specially designed apps that enable visitors to get up close and personal with its powerplant products. If this "beta test" is a success, the tablet-based approach to product promotion could be extended to the rest of the air show calendar, says Steve Friedrich, Rolls-Royce North America vice president for sales and marketing.

The apps provide technical information and images of engines including the BR725 for the Gulfstream G650, BR710 for the G550 and Bombardier Global 5000/6000 family, as well as the AE3007A2 and C2 variants equipping the Embraer Legacy 650 and Cessna Citation Ten, respectively.

"For the future, we've got some engine concepts we're looking at," says Friedrich. "We call it Advance 2."

R-R is meanwhile announcing at the show that it is incorporating line replaceable unit labour costs and boroscope inspections into its CorporateCare cost-per-flight-hour support programme.

"We are not increasing the price despite adding these services," says Friedrich. "We are seeing very strong interest for CorporateCare for the G650 at this point," he adds.

Regarding prospects for EBACE this year in the face of the economic downturn, "you'll still see Middle Eastern and Russian buyers come to this show", says Friedrich.

Also making a debut on R-R's stand this year is a full-sized rotating BR725 fan.

Source: Flight Daily News