Gulf Air Selects CFM LEAP-1A Engines for Its Fleet
Gulf Air expands its partnership with CFM International to select LEAP-1A engines for nine new A320neo aircraft.
Translated by Qiyas from الجريدة — Original source
Kuwait Airlines has selected CFM International’s LEAP-1A engines to power nine additional Airbus A320neo aircraft. The carrier also expanded its existing engine services agreement to cover its current and future fleet of 29 A320neo-family aircraft, along with the purchase of spare engines.
Parathan Pasupathy, CEO of Kuwait Airlines, said: “We are pleased to continue strengthening our partnership with CFM International, which has been and remains a key partner in Kuwait Airlines’ growth over the past two decades. The selection of LEAP-1A engines for the nine additional A320neos within our current order of 26 aircraft reflects our ongoing confidence in CFM’s technology, reliability, and support. As we enter the next phase of growth, this partnership will support our fleet expansion, help enhance operational efficiency, and reinforce our commitment to providing our passengers with a safe, reliable, and cost-effective travel experience.”
In May 2018, Kuwait Airlines became the first airline in the Middle East to operate A320neo aircraft powered by LEAP-1A engines. The airline currently operates 11 A320neo aircraft equipped with LEAP-1A engines, as well as 13 A320ceo aircraft powered by CFM56-5B engines.
On his part, Gael Miehust, Chairman and CEO of CFM International, stated: “We are proud of the trust Kuwait Airlines places in LEAP engines and in the support provided by CFM. This trust reflects not only the quality of our engines but also our commitment to delivering continuous service to the highest global standards, ensuring maximum operational benefit for Kuwait Airlines’ LEAP-powered fleet.”
Over the ten years since the LEAP engine entered service, CFM has delivered more than 10,000 engines, which have collectively accumulated over 100 million flight hours. The company continues to develop the LEAP engine family through a High-Pressure Turbine (HPT) durability enhancement package aimed at extending time on wing before maintenance is required, as well as a Reverse Flow System (RBS) that helps reduce maintenance requirements for airlines.
CFM focuses on ensuring high levels of engine availability through outstanding performance in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, offering competitive ownership costs alongside competitive aftermarket service benefits through its open MRO service network.
