IHI, Techspace Aero Sign On as Joint-venture Partners for GE Passport Engine

GE Aviation has reached agreements with IHI of Japan and Techspace Aero (Safran) to become joint-venture partners on GE’s new Passport engine, which will power the Bombardier Global 7000 and 8000. Under the agreements, IHI and Techspace Aero will be responsible for more than 37 percent of the Passport engine–IHI for the low-pressure turbine module, aerodrive systems, fan hub frame and aft fan case; and Techspace Aero for the booster module, lubricant tank and pump and the heat exchangers. Engine certification is expected in 2015.