Ryanair Invests $500 Million in 30 Spare LEAP-1B Engines to Boost Fleet Reliability

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.

Aviation News Roundup 21st Feb 2025

Aviation News Roundup 21st Feb 2025 – This Week’s Biggest Stories

Delta Air Lines Unveils Special 100-Year Anniversary Livery on A350

Delta Air Lines’ latest Airbus A350 has emerged from Toulouse with a special 100-year anniversary livery. The aircraft, registered N527DN, underwent its first engine run and taxi tests, marking a significant milestone before its delivery. The livery, featuring a sleek blue and silver design, commemorates the airline’s rich history as it celebrates a century of operations.

Airbus Reports Strong Full-Year 2024 Financial Results

Airbus has announced its consolidated financial results for the full year ending December 31, 2024. The aerospace giant delivered 766 commercial aircraft and reported revenues of €69.2 billion, with an EBIT adjusted at €5.4 billion. Free cash flow before customer financing stood at €4.5 billion, and a dividend proposal of €2.00 per share, plus a special dividend of €1.00 per share, has been issued. Looking ahead, Airbus has issued new guidance for 2025, solidifying its position as a market leader.

airBaltic Becomes First European Airline to Offer Free Starlink Internet

Latvian carrier airBaltic has officially introduced SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet across its Airbus A220-300 fleet, making it the first European airline to do so. The service, certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), provides passengers with free, high-speed, low-latency internet access from boarding to landing. To celebrate, airBaltic hosted a special flight at Riga Airport, showcasing the system’s capabilities. The airline plans to complete Starlink installations on all A220s by the end of 2025.

Boeing Explores Return to the Russian Market

Boeing is reportedly in discussions to resume aircraft sales and spare part supplies to Russia in exchange for aerospace-grade titanium. Russia produces 60% of the world’s aerospace-grade titanium, which is crucial for aircraft manufacturing. If approved, this deal could mark Boeing’s return to the Russian market after Western aviation sanctions were imposed in 2022.

Bombardier CRJ-900 Barrel Rolls on Landing – All Survive

A Bombardier CRJ-900LR operated by Endeavor Air, flying for Delta Connection, crashed on landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport on February 17. The aircraft barrel-rolled down the runway, losing its wings, tail, and landing gear in the process. Miraculously, despite the dramatic crash sequence, the fuselage remained intact, and only 15 injuries were reported. The accident underscores the exceptional build quality of the CRJ airframe and the critical role of cabin crew in ensuring a safe evacuation. Investigations are currently underway.

Lufthansa Confirmed as Launch Customer for Boeing 777-9

Boeing has officially confirmed Lufthansa as the launch customer for the highly anticipated 777-9. The German carrier will be the first to receive the new aircraft in 2027, with Boeing targeting 2026 for certification. Lufthansa’s decision reaffirms its confidence in Boeing’s next-generation twinjet, which is set to offer increased efficiency and range for long-haul operations.

Air Greenland to Lease A320neo for 2027 Operations

Air Greenland has signed an agreement with Carlyle Aviation Partners to lease an Airbus A320neo for its summer 2027 schedule. The aircraft will support operations on the Ilulissat–Copenhagen route and supplement the airline’s A330neo fleet. The A320neo is expected to be delivered in December 2026 before undergoing modifications for Greenlandic conditions.

Emirates Introduces New A350-900 Cabin Configuration

Emirates has announced a new three-class cabin configuration for its upcoming Airbus A350-900 fleet, placing a greater emphasis on premium economy seating. The first aircraft with this updated layout is set to enter service in Q4 2025. The move reflects Emirates’ strategy to enhance passenger comfort and compete in the evolving long-haul market.

Major Pilot and Cabin Crew Recruitment Updates

Several airlines have announced hiring campaigns this week:

• Ryanair is recruiting type-rated and non-type-rated cadet pilots for its Morocco base.
• Bulgaria Air is hiring Embraer E190 Captains and First Officers.
• Peach Aviation (ANA Group) is offering joining and type-rating bonuses for A320 Captains in Japan.
• Jet2 is recruiting type-rated pilots for its expanding UK network.
• Virgin Atlantic is seeking Airbus First Officers and Senior First Officers, offering competitive salaries and career progression opportunities.
• Emerald Airlines is hiring ATR engineers for its Belfast operations.

Scholarship Opportunities for Aspiring Pilots

The Air League has opened applications for its 2025 Scholarship Programme, offering flight training courses, gliding bursaries, and full PPL scholarships. With over 100 scholarships available, aspiring pilots are encouraged to apply. A webinar on the selection process will be hosted by the Air League’s Scholarship Programme Manager on February 19.

This concludes this week’s Aviation News Roundup 21st Feb 2025.  Stay tuned for more updates next week!

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