CFM secures regulatory certification for LEAP-1A engine’s durability fixes

By Rajesh Kumar Singh

CHICAGO (Reuters) – Jet engine maker CFM International said on Friday aviation regulators in the United States and Europe have certified a “more durable” high-pressure turbine kit for its LEAP-1A engines that power the narrowbody jets of Airbus.

LEAP engines have been facing durability issues in regions with hotter and harsh environments, like the Middle East and Asia, causing frustration among airlines.

CFM, owned by GE Aerospace and France’s Safran (EPA:SAF), said it has made updates to address those concerns and has received certification from both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.

“This new hardware is fulfilling our promise to ensure that LEAP-1A engines achieve the same level of maturity, durability, and time on wing that our customers have enjoyed with the CFM56 product line,” CFM CEO Gael Meheust said in a statement.

A similar solution is being tested for the LEAP-1B engines, which power Boeing (NYSE:BA)’s 737 MAX planes.

Separately, GE Aerospace called the certification a “significant milestone” in improving the engine’s durability. The company said the new hardware is also easier to manufacture and would help increase the engine production.

The durability issues with newer-generation LEAP engines and Pratt & Whitney GTF engines have exacerbated a logjam in maintenance capacity.

After the pandemic, turnaround times at engine repair shops rose by 35% for legacy engines and more than 150% for new-generation engines, according to consulting firm Bain & Company. On average, it is taking two to three months for airlines just to secure a slot at repair shops, the firm said.