ENGINE MRO INVESTMENTS AND DEVELOPMENTS

Despite easing production issues in 2025, significant investments in next-generation engine repair networks continue.

Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan (GTF)

Operating within a closed network, Pratt & Whitney’s GTF program faces durability challenges, with 600-700 engines scheduled for early repairs by 2026. MRO demand is expected to grow from 100 events in 2025 to 750 by 2028. Expansion efforts include a 40% capacity increase at its Florida site and a $150 million upgrade at its Christchurch Engine Center. Pratt & Whitney plans to have 30 GTF MRO facilities by 2030.

GE Aerospace GEnx

The GE Aerospace GEnx, introduced in 2011, is seeing increased shop visits. The GEnx aftermarket, projected at $5.9 billion in 2025, continues to grow as the engine gains market share against Rolls-Royce. GE Aerospace, along with providers such as Sanad, MTU Maintenance, and AFI KLM E&M, is expanding MRO capabilities, including a potential joint venture between AFI KLM E&M and Saudia Technic for GEnx repairs in Jeddah.

CFM International Leap

The Leap engine program is projected to generate $238.5 billion in MRO spending over the next decade, surpassing the CFM56 by 2029. Safran and GE Aerospace plan to increase Leap shop visits to 1,725 in 2025, with further expansions in Brussels, Morocco, India, Mexico, and France. CFM has eight licensed MRO shops, with Lufthansa Technik (LHT) and StandardAero leading the network. LHT has completed over 60 Leap engine events, focusing on modifications like the Reverse Bleed System (RBS) to improve performance. New Leap repair facilities are emerging in Cyprus, Israel, and Portugal, while CFM anticipates adding 3-5 more MRO suppliers to meet growing demand.

Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 & XWB

Rolls-Royce is expanding its aftermarket operations to support Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 engines. Investments of £55 million in Derby, UK, and Dahlewitz, Germany, will increase Trent 1000 and XWB capabilities. A £1 billion enhancement package aims to improve engine durability. Joint ventures with Lufthansa Technik (N3) and SIA Engineering Co. in Singapore will boost Trent engine output, while a new partnership with Air China (BAESL) will add capacity by 2026.