New Position Strengthens Supplier Relationships and Enhances Customer Service

MESA, AZ, Nov. 15, 2005  -  MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) has named Jeffrey L. Snyder, an aerospace industry leader in parts and logistics, as General Manager of Spare Parts and Service.

"Jeff is recognized as one of the most brilliant minds in aviation logistics," said Robert René, Chief Executive Officer for MDHI.  "With over 25 years of expertise in building world-class aerospace spare parts and customer service organizations, his addition to the team is a huge plus for both MDHI and customers."

Snyder comes to MDHI from Kelly Aerospace where he was Vice President of Sales and Marketing. He also held senior positions at B/E Aerospace, where he was Group Vice President, and at Raytheon Aircraft, where he had worldwide responsibility for spares support. In total, he has over 25 years of experience, specifically in building and operating aerospace parts and service businesses.

In his new position, Snyder will be responsible for spares support for nearly 3,000 helicopters manufactured by MDHI and its predecessor companies. He is one of several senior executives to join MDHI since its acquisition by Patriarch Partners, LLC, in July. The company is strengthening its ranks as it ramps up production in both the commercial and military sectors.

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About MD Helicopters:
MD Helicopters is a leading manufacturer of commercial and military helicopters. The MDHI family of rotorcraft is world renowned for their value, versatility and performance. The MD Helicopters family includes the twin-engine MD Explorer®, and single engine versions of the MD 600N®, MD 520N®, MD 500E® and MD 530F®. The NOTAR® system for anti-torque control is the exclusive property of MD Helicopters. The Company is based in Mesa, Arizona.

About Patriarch Partners, LLC
Patriarch Partners, LLC is an investment firm in New York and Charlotte, North Carolina which together with its affiliates, provides portfolio management services and serves as investment advisor to multiple leveraged funds and a private equity fund. Founded in 2000 by Lynn Tilton, Patriarch provides innovative financial solutions, strategic direction and operational expertise to companies undergoing periods of pervasive change. Patriarch currently monitors credit facilities in respect to approximately $5 billion dollars of assets under its management, including  equity positions (majority and minority) in more than 65 companies. Lynn Tilton serves as Chairman of the Board of MDHI. Funds managed by Patriarch Partners own a majority and controlling interest in MDHI.

Contacts: Ken Jensen
MD Helicopters
(480) 346-6131

Matt Triaca
Burson-Marsteller
(202) 530-4690