WASHINGTON -- Equant (NYSE: ENT) (Euronext Paris: EQU), a recognized industry leader in global data and IP services for multinational businesses, has implemented a fully managed IP VPN solution for Aviall (NYSE: AVL), the world's largest independent distributor of new aviation parts.

Aviall represents some 215 manufacturers and distributes and markets parts to more than 17,000 general aviation operators and 300 airlines worldwide. Under a four-year, $7 million contract, Equant connected more than 40 Aviall sites worldwide, including the corporate headquarters and central warehouse in Dallas and multiple stocking locations in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, the Netherlands and the U.S. Aviall plans to employ a complete virtual call center in 2004 and is currently piloting the solution at three sites.

"Equant delivered in every way," said Joe Lacik, Aviall's vice president for Information Services. "From the global network to the desktop and server rollout worldwide, Equant provided total solution for our current needs and future growth. Equant committed to providing superior levels of support through every phase of the project - from premium project management, to alleviating the pain of implementation to ongoing customer service management support."

Lacik added, "The commitment is further strengthened by a senior level account team responsible for supporting all aspects of the relationship. Equant is truly committed to a long-term partnership with Aviall."

Aviall's new IP VPN, based on MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) technology, replaced a slow and unreliable legacy network without convergence capabilities. Now, Aviall enjoys the following benefits:

"It has been a great experience working with Aviall to develop the new IP VPN from the ground up," said Bruce W. Smith, head of Sales and Marketing, Equant North America. "The teamwork between Equant and Aviall has been a classic case of two companies working together for the best possible solution. The Aviall network is now fully prepared for the future."

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