CFM International Has Faith in LEAP Popularity for Long-Range Airbus Models

Airbus has been granted certification of the LEAP-equipped version of the A321XLR by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), adding renewed fleet compatibility for users of the A320neo and better performance to boot.

CFM International was particularly proud to break the news at the Farnborough International Airshow, highlighting the popularity of their LEAP engine. The approval from EASA builds on similar approval from the FAA granted on July 10th, making the A321XLR the 5th member of the A320neo family to sport the LEAP engine. The type has been a highlight of CFM's portfolio, building on their history with the long-serving CFM56 with improved performance and reliability with up to 20% lower carbon dioxide emissions. The LEAP series made a quick name for itself after release, racking up 50 million flight hours in less than a decade since introduction. 

CFM International says that the LEAP is a popular configuration whenever operators start shopping for Airbus aircraft, with 11 different operators already signed on to use 190 A321XLRs. Counting the similar A321LR and A321neo, LEAP engines have been the go-to for more than 70 operators as they chose more than 2,300 of the long-range Airbuses.

“Certification of the CFM-powered A321XLR is an important milestone in providing our operators much greater route scheduling flexibility,” said CFM International CEO Gaël Méheust.

“The engine was always designed for 35,000-lb. thrust capability for longer range, higher max takeoff weight aircraft. As a result, no engine modifications were required, giving operators the added benefit of 100 percent commonality with their existing A320neo family fleets.”

FMI: www.cfmaeroengines.com