CLEVELAND, OHIO… Airbus has selected diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation (NYSE:ETN) for the second time in the signing of a supplier contract for the A380. Eaton's Aerospace unit in Jackson, Michigan will supply its Aeroquip-brand Rynglok™ and high pressure hose products as the avenue for hydraulic fluid conveyance in the all-new Airbus A380, the world's largest commercial aircraft.

Eaton estimates the contract to have a potential revenue value of $70 million over the next 20 years. In October, 2001, Airbus signed Eaton to an A380 hydraulic system contract potentially generating revenues of $200 million for the company for the life of the contract.

"We are always heartened by a repeat visit to a supplier company, as it's an endorsement of their product quality," said Allan McArtor, Chairman of Airbus North America. "Our decision to return to an American firm is a particularly positive move for us, as it illustrates our dedication to shop the world over for the best products and people to be involved with our aircraft."

Eaton's Aeroquip Rynglok tube fitting technology was specifically designed for higher-pressure hydraulic power generation systems such as the 5000 psi (pounds per square inch) system that will operate on the A380. The all-metal lightweight titanium alloy construction and zero-leak design make it an ideal standard fitting technology for the A380's overall hydraulic fluid conveyance system which includes primary and secondary flight controls and landing gear.

Eaton Corporation is a global $8 billion diversified industrial manufacturer that is a leader in fluid power systems; electrical power quality, distribution and control; automotive engine air management and fuel economy; and intelligent truck systems for fuel economy and safety. Eaton has 49,000 employees and sells products in more than 50 countries.

This news release contains a forward-looking statement concerning the revenue value of the supplier contract for the A380. This statement should be used with caution. It is subject to various risks and uncertainties, some of which are outside the control of the company. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statement include market conditions for the A380 and unexpected technical difficulties. We do not assume any obligation to update this forward-looking statement.