While Airbus maintained a bit of a low profile on the first day of the Farnborough Airshow, announcing just one order from Royal Bhutan Airlines for three A320neo and two A321XLRs, it used the show to celebrate Cebu Pacific (CEB)’s purchase of up to 152 A321neo aircraft, the largest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history. The partners signed the binding memorandum of understanding earlier this month and covers firm orders for up to 102 A321neos, plus 50 A320neo family purchase rights. CEB has selected Pratt & Whitney GTF engines to power the aircraft."
“This latest order demonstrates the growing opportunities for aviation in the Philippines and the larger Asia Pacific region,” said Rick Deurloo, president of commercial engines at Pratt & Whitney. “Our GTF engine will power this growth while delivering industry-leading fuel efficiency and sustainability benefits for single-aisle aircraft.” The RTX business said it expects to complete the purchase agreement in the third quarter of the year.
In a separate statement, Pratt & Whitney said that SMBC Aviation Capital had exercised options for 22 Pratt & Whitney GTF-powered A320neo firm orders. The deal supplements a 2021 order for 20 additional aircraft, bringing the lessor’s commitment to 42 firm A320neo family aircraft equipped with GTF engines.
SMBC Aviation Capital currently manages a portfolio of 142 GTF-powered A320neo family aircraft.
“We appreciate SMBC Aviation Capital’s continued confidence in Pratt & Whitney as we work together to deliver economic and environmental benefits for airline customers,” commented Deurloo. “These additional orders are a testament to the advantages this engine delivers as the most fuel-efficient, sustainable engine for single-aisle aircraft.”
Airbus offers its A320neo family with two engine choices–Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower PW1100G geared turbofan, and CFM International’s Leap-1A.
Separately, Chilean-based low-cost airline Sky Airline selected the GTF engine to power 10 A321XLR aircraft. Also taking options for 29 Airbus A320 and A321neos. Sky Airline becomes a first-time Pratt & Whitney customer. Pratt & Whitney plans to provide long-term maintenance services via an EngineWise comprehensive service agreement.