Air France-KLM confirmed a purchase order for 200 LEAP-1A engines, produced by CFM International. Based on the agreement, which seals negotiations that had began in April, the airline will use the powerplant to power KLM and Transavia’s new Airbus A320neo and A321neo.
“We are honored to further expand our partnership with one of the industry’s largest groups and to be an integral part of Air France-KLM’s sustainability strategy”, said Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International.
The engine manufacturing company, a joint collaboration between U.S.-based GE Aviation and France’s Snecma, was created to produce and support the operations of the CFM56 engine family, which has become one of the most popular alternatives in the industry.
CFM56-7Bs currently power KLM’s and Transavia’s Boeing 737 NGs. Air France’s Airbus A320s use CFM56-5Bs. The new partnership means a strengthening of the relationship between the companies, now with the implementation of an engine that consumes up to 15% less fuel and, consequently, reduces carbon dioxide emissions.
In this regard, Gaël Méheust said that “this renewed trust is a valuable recognition of LEAP engine performances in terms of sustainability and fuel efficiency”.
In December 2021, Air France-KLM announced an order to Airbus for one hundred A320neo family aircraft, along with purchase rights for an additional sixty. According to the company’s plans, the aircraft will be used to renew and expand the fleets of KLM and Transavia’s subsidiaries in the Netherlands and France.
See also: Air France takes delivery of its tenth Airbus A220-300
