#CFM #aviancatacaholdings #airbus #manufacturing #engineering AviancaTaca Holdings has selected CFM LEAP-1A engines (pictured) to power 33 Airbus A320neo family aircraft, in addition to ordering CFM56-5B engines to power 18 Airbus A320ceo family aircraft. The airline has also opted for a comprehensive engine maintenance service package. The agreement has a total combined value of $2.7 billion at list price. Deliveries of the A320neos are scheduled between 2014 and 2016, while the A320ceos will be delivered between 2017 and 2019.
Avianca has been a CFM customer since 2006 and currently operates a fleet of 66 CFM56-5B-powered Airbus A320 family aircraft. The airline merged with TACA in 2010 to create one of the largest carriers in Latin America, transporting more than 30 million passengers in 2012. The new aircraft will be used for both fleet renewal and growth.
LEAP engines incorporate technologies not previously seen in single-aisle aircraft. The engine combines advanced aerodynamic design, lighter and more durable materials, and advanced environmental technologies. The 15% better fuel efficiency (at current fuel prices) represents as much as $1.6 million in fuel cost savings per airplane, per year.
LEAP and CFM56-5B engines are products of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (Safran) and GE. CFM has delivered nearly 25,000 engines to date.