LEAP engine manufacturer CFM International is rebranding its network of licensed jet-engine service centers as “Premier MRO” providers. The new brand is seen as a further step to ensure the authenticity of CFM parts and services supplied to aircraft operators – an upshot of the controversy involving unauthorized parts in the commercial aircraft supply chain.
CFM International, and the two engine developers that jointly own it, were partners in the Aviation Supply Chain Integrity Coalition formed to address the controversy, which recently introduced a standards to ensure the authenticity of parts in use by MRO providers.
“Our commitment to an open MRO ecosystem is unwavering,” stated Gaël Méheust, president and CEO of CFM International. “By introducing the Premier MRO brand, we’re giving operators a clear understanding of the extensive capabilities and technical expertise they can expect from these shops.”
CFM pointed to several airlines adopting its MRO services for their LEAP engine fleets.
The LEAP engine is a high-bypass turbofan engine model designed by CFM International and produced in three variants for twin-engine narrow-body aircraft, including the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX series. The LEAP-1A, the Airbus version, is manufactured by Safran Aircraft Engines, one half of the CFM partnership. The other partner is GE Aerospace, which manufactures the LEAP-1B for Boeing 737 MAX jets.
In parallel with CFM’s announcement, GE Aerospace announced new plans to invest in its European MRO and component repair operations. The $130 million in EU capital programs it set forth through 2026 are part of a $1-billion increase in MRO spending by GE.
It indicated the European MRO investments investment will fund additional engine test cells, new equipment and technology, “including AI-enabled enhanced inspection techniques,” to reduce turnaround times for customers and expand component repair capability.
GE Aerospace’s MRO projects in the region include locations in England, Hungary, Poland, Scotland, and Wales.
