Neuilly-sur-Seine ; 21 February 2006 - BMED and Thales further extended their business relationship with the signing of a purchase and product support agreement. Just two years ago, the airline and Thales initiated a new program for the delivery of seven A320 and A321 aircraft with the TopSeries video and audio on-demand system installed at every seat. TopSeries entered revenue service with BMED in May 2005 and all seven aircraft will enter service by 2010.

BMED is the first UK operator flying the Thales TopSeries system offering its passengers video and audio on-demand service. This level of passenger entertainment on single aisle aircraft is a growing trend and BMED leads the way in the European market.

“We are pleased to be able to bring our passengers an enhanced IFE offering allowing a greater choice of entertainment. The Thales TopSeries functionality and compact lightweight design makes it an ideal choice for BMED’s fleet,” said David Richardson, Chief Executive of BMED.

“Thales is delighted to be working with BMED, and we look forward to providing services to the airline for years to come,” said Gil Michielin, Vice President and General Manager for Thales’ Commercial Airline Solutions business line. The airline is now discussing the TopSeries system for their existing fleet.

About Thales

Thales is a leading international electronics and systems group, serving defence, aerospace, security and services markets worldwide. The Group employs 60,000 people throughout the world and generated revenues of 10.3 billion euros in 2005.

Selected as the IFE product of choice for Product Differentiation and Innovation, Thales has received the 2005 Frost and Sullivan award in the field of In-flight Entertainment and Connectivity. Totaling over 40% market share in 2005, Thales is moving into a leadership position and is now ranked among the top three players in the IFE market.