- IndiGo has signed a memorandum of understanding with CFM International to purchase over 1,000 LEAP-1A engines, marking a record deal for the engine maker.
- This MoU includes CFM's support in establishing an upcoming engine MRO facility and a long-term material services agreement for spare parts.
- CFM International is co-owned by GE Aerospace and Safran, and is the world's largest engine maker by number of units sold.
IndiGo, India's largest airline, has signed a historic MoU with CFM International for over 1,000 LEAP-1A engines, marking the largest single order for the engine maker. This agreement, announced at the Farnborough International Airshow, supports IndiGo's fleet of 510 Airbus A320neo aircraft.1236
The deal includes extensive support for establishing an engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru, ensuring high dispatch reliability and predictable costs through a long-term material services agreement for spare parts.
IndiGo's incoming CEO Willie Walsh stated, “CFM has been a trusted partner in our growth journey since 2016, supporting a fleet that now exceeds 375 A320/321 Family aircraft”. He emphasized the LEAP engine's reliability as crucial for the airline's operational resilience and sustainability ambitions.
CFM International, co-owned by GE Aerospace and Safran, is a leading engine maker with a significant presence in India, where it has over 2,000 engines on order. H. Lawrence Culp Jr., CEO of GE Aerospace, noted that LEAP engines deliver up to twice the time on wing in harsh environments, enhancing fuel efficiency and reliability.
Olivier Andriès, CEO of Safran, remarked, “This historic milestone reflects the long-standing partnership between IndiGo and CFM”, highlighting India's strategic importance in the global aviation market. The partnership aims to bolster IndiGo's growth and contribute to the development of the Indian aerospace industry.
“The record deal, covering 510 Airbus A320neo aircraft, is the largest single order for LEAP engines globally. CFM will support IndiGo's new MRO facility in Bengaluru, while CEO-designate Willie Walsh highlighted the engine's proven reliability for the airline's 375-strong A320/321 fleet and over 900 additional planes on order.”
