Premier Turbines: Two-Year Old Claims 30 Years of Experience

When Premier Turbines was created two years ago by Sabreliner Corp., it called itself the "New Kid on the Block."

In the 24 months since its formation, the "New Kid" has posted impressive gains by expanding its engine repair capabilities for popular TFE731 business jet and Allison 250 helicopter engines, by adding a San Diego facility that specializes in innovative component repair, and by establishing sales networks in Europe and Latin America.

"We've been successful in attaining an annual growth rate of more than 85 percent, and we continue adding services which we can offer to the industry," said Premier Turbines president Bob D. Hanks.

"Not bad for a two year old," he said.

Just this summer, for example, Premier Turbines relocated its TFE731 major periodic inspection (MPI) capabilities from Perryville, MO, to the St. Louis Downtown-Parks Airport, across the Mississippi River from the Gateway Arch. The location is more convenient for owners and operators of aircraft powered by the engine.

"We have an impressive list of accomplishments in our first two years," said Bill Thompson, director of sales and marketing. Among them,

• Premier Turbines has processed 40 TFE731 core zone inspection related events, and greatly expanded the amount of floor space dedicated to the engine at its Neosho, MO, facility.

• The company expects to obtain manufacture approval for all PT6 and PW100 major component repairs at its San Diego facility by year's end.

• The San Diego facility has increased the number of DER-approved major component repairs to more than 110, primarily on the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 and PW100 engine lines and the AlliedSignal APU Series components.

• The San Diego facility has added new product lines on its FAA repair station certificate including the AlliedSignal TFE731, Pratt & Whitney Canada PW901 and the General Electric CF34.

• The TFE731 Sales and Service Network has been expanded through the appointment of a dedicated program manager and a dedicated sales and service manager.

• The Premier Turbines facility at Perryville has added JFTD12 free turbine overhaul capability. (The engine is a derivative of the JT12 engine used exclusively on the Skycrane helicopter.)

"With that record of growth and achievement, Premier Turbines is no longer is the 'new kid on the block,'" Thompson said. "We've demonstrated our experience, and our experience shows."

By Perry Bradley