Reporting for LARA Magazine, Rob Munro talks to industry experts about CFM International’s LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion) engine. The engine, which powers the Airbus A320neo family, the Boeing 737 MAX variants, and the COMAC C919, is now firmly established in the low-fare and regional aviation sector. 

Speaking to AJW Group’s Director of Engines, Wasim Akhtar, Munro asks how airlines and MRO providers in the UK and globally are preparing to meet the wave of demand for CFM LEAP maintenance cycles.  

Akhtar states that airlines should look to secure long-term repair agreements, either directly with CFM or through third-party independent MROs licensed by the OEM. 

“These agreements allow for better planning and cost control around quick-turn and extensive maintenance events, which are expected to increase significantly in the coming years,” he expands.  

Continuing, he shares that “suppliers like AJW have been investing in acquiring aircraft powered by LEAP engines. This strategic move ensures access to critical components and allows for timely support to both airlines and MROs as demand for spare parts intensifies.” 

Munro then asks for Akhtar’s opinion on how the operational costs, particularly maintenance, will measure against the initial projections made by CFM International. 

AJW Group’s Director of Engines replies that it is too early to accurately predict the total cost of ownership. However, several key factors will come into play, such as engine reliability, the frequency of maintenance events, the availability of USM, and the efficiency of the MRO network.  

“Ultimately, determining whether the LEAP engine meets its cost-effectiveness expectations compared to the CFM56 will depend on the quality and transparency of operational data across the industry. A clear picture of the true cost of ownership is unlikely to emerge for at least another decade,” Akhtar concludes.  

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