The Federal Aviation Administration certified Pratt & Whitney's PurePower PW1400G-JM geared-turbofan engine to power the Irkut MC-21 jet, meaning three variants of the PurePower GTF have been cleared by the civil aviation regulatory agency.
The Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engine design involves a gear system separating the engine fan from the low-pressure compressor and turbine, so that each module operates at optimal speed, reducing fuel consumption, emissions, and engine noise.
According to Greg Gernhardt, president of Commercial Engines Programs for Pratt & Whitney, "The technology behind the GTF engine is a game-changing force in the aviation industry for all the right reasons and we are excited that the PW1400G-JM engine is moving one step closer to powering Irkut's MC-21 aircraft and providing the renowned benefits for which this engine is so highly regarded."
The PurePower engine family has completed more than 58,000 cycles and 35,000 hours of testing, according to the developer.
The PW1000G series engines have been selected as the exclusive option for several new jet models, including the Bombardier CSeries, Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ), and Embraer's second generation E-Jets. It is offered as an option on the Irkut MC-21 and Airbus A320neo.
Irkut is a business unit of Russia’s United Aircraft Corp. Its MC-21 is one of three in a series of twin-engine aircraft for short- and mid-range routes, developed to carry 150-212 passengers. It is compared to the A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX series, and Irkut reportedly has nearly 300 orders from Russian airlines and leasing companies.
Pratt & Whitney builds and tests the PW1400G-JM engines at the Pratt & Whitney West Palm Beach Engine Center.
"This milestone is another huge step forward for the PurePower engine program, which brings unmatched operational benefits including double-digit reductions in noise, emissions and fuel burn, making for greener skies," Gernhardt said.
