Ryanair Invests $500 Million in 30 Spare LEAP-1B Engines to Boost Fleet Reliability
Ryanair has signed a $500 million deal with CFM International for 30 LEAP-1B spare engines to support its Boeing 737 fleet and future 737 MAX-10 aircraft. Learn more at Aviation Insider.
Ryanair Strengthens Fleet with $500 Million Investment in LEAP-1B Spare Engines
In a significant move to enhance operational efficiency and fleet resilience, Ryanair has announced a $500 million agreement with CFM International for the purchase of 30 new LEAP-1B spare engines. The deal, revealed on June 10, 2025, underlines the airline’s commitment to long-term growth and reliability across its expanding Boeing 737 fleet.
The LEAP-1B engine, developed by CFM International—a joint venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace—is the exclusive powerplant for the Boeing 737 MAX series. Known for its fuel efficiency and environmental performance, the engine delivers up to 20% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emissions per seat compared to previous-generation engines.
Supporting a Growing Boeing 737 Fleet
The 30 new engines are scheduled for delivery over the next two years and will increase Ryanair’s spare engine pool to over 120 units. This will not only support the airline’s current Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8-200 “Gamechanger” aircraft, but also prepare for the introduction of Boeing 737 MAX-10s, which are expected to begin arriving in 2027.
“Today’s purchase of 30 new LEAP-1B spare engines is a significant commitment to improve the operational resilience of our Group airlines,” said Michael O’Leary, CEO of Ryanair Group. “We are pleased to continue to develop our longstanding partnership with CFM (Safran & GE Aerospace).”
Boosting Reliability Amid Industry Challenges
This move comes at a time when global supply chain challenges and MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) delays have put pressure on airline operations worldwide. By increasing its inventory of spare engines, Ryanair can reduce the risk of schedule disruptions caused by maintenance issues, positioning itself as a more reliable and self-sufficient operator.
Additionally, Ryanair is investing heavily in expanding its in-house maintenance capabilities, including new MRO hangars in Dublin and across Europe. This investment in engines complements those efforts, offering increased operational flexibility and reduced dependency on external overhaul timelines.
A Long-Term Vision for Growth
Ryanair currently operates over 210 Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 aircraft, with more on order. The carrier has also placed a firm order for 150 Boeing 737 MAX-10s, with options for another 150. As part of its 2034 growth strategy, the airline aims to operate a fleet of 800 aircraft and carry up to 300 million passengers annually, up from around 206 million today.
This engine deal is one of several strategic moves aimed at preparing Ryanair for sustained growth in the face of increasing demand for low-cost air travel across Europe and beyond.
Takeaways:
- Ryanair is spending $500 million on 30 spare LEAP-1B engines from CFM International.
- The engines will support both current and future Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
- The move boosts fleet reliability, reduces fuel burn, and supports Ryanair’s 2034 growth target of 300 million passengers.
- It reflects Ryanair’s proactive response to industry-wide supply chain challenges.
