The $790 million helicopter purchase announced last week by Defence Minister Art Eggleton may benefit the Prince Edward Island economy thanks to Slemon Park-based Wiebel Aerospace (1995) Inc. (WAI) and its parent company Testori Americas Corp.
"All of the companies involved in the contract bid presented the potential for an Island company to be involved," said Wes MacAleer, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism. "However, this contract with Agusta and Westland may be the best choice as far as economic benefits for PEI."
"I would like to congratulate all Island companies for their initiatives with the bidding companies. The products and services offered by Island companies, like Wiebel and Testori, have clearly placed Prince Edward Island on the leading edge of the aerospace industry," added Minister MacAleer.
WAI manufactures hydraulic assemblies, landing gear components and other high precision machined parts for the aerospace industry. It is this type of equipment and qualified, experienced employees which will be required to help construct the proposed 15 Cormorant helicopters which use General Electric engines.
Testori provides a variety of specialized products and services for the interiors of air crafts. These products include specialized textiles, thermo-formed plastic panels and various cabin components. Some of the services offered by Testori include the design, manufacture, repair and installation of products such as seat covers, carpets, curtains and blankets.
"The possibility of Wiebel Aerospace and Testori aiding in the construction of these helicopters is very good for the Island," said Minister MacAleer. "Recently, we have been in talks with GE, the makers of the engines used in the Cormorant. These talks have been productive in encouraging the General Electric company to increase their presence on PEI."