New Boost for IndiGo’s Expansion: To Purchase Over 1,000 Engines from CFM for 510 Airbus Aircraft

IndiGo, the country’s largest airline, has announced that it will purchase more than 1,000 engines from CFM International for its fleet of 510 Airbus A320neo family aircraft. IndiGo and CFM International signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect during the Farnborough International Airshow held in the UK. CFM International is a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.

The company stated that this order for over 1,000 LEAP-1A engines for the 510 Airbus A320neo family aircraft marks the largest single order for LEAP engines in CFM International’s history. However, the financial details of the deal have not been disclosed. The A320neo family comprises the A320neo, A321neo, and A321XLR aircraft; all of these are narrow-body planes.

What else does the agreement entail?

Under the agreement, CFM International will also provide extensive support in establishing IndiGo’s engine MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facility in Bengaluru. Additionally, the company will provide technical support for IndiGo’s fleet through a long-term material services agreement, which includes the supply of spare parts. Currently, IndiGo operates over 400 aircraft and has an outstanding order for more than 900 Airbus aircraft. IndiGo’s designated CEO, Willie Walsh, said, “CFM has been a trusted partner in our growth journey since 2016 and currently supports a fleet of over 375 A320/321 family aircraft. The reliability of the LEAP engine makes it the ideal choice for our expansion, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth goals.” IndiGo has been a customer of CFM International for the past 10 years.

India: CFM’s Third-Largest Market

In 2016, the airline was operating Airbus A320ceo family aircraft powered by CFM56-5B engines. Subsequently, in 2019, it placed an order for LEAP-1A engines for its new Airbus A320/321neo family aircraft. India is the third-largest market for CFM International. Currently, five Indian airlines operate more than 400 aircraft powered by LEAP engines, and orders for 2,000 engines have already been placed.

H. Lawrence Culp Jr., Chairman and CEO of GE Aerospace, stated that with its manufacturing facility in Pune, a strong network of local suppliers, and advanced engineering capabilities in Bengaluru, the company is committed to supporting IndiGo’s expansion and further strengthening its own presence in India.