Airbus is to make a preliminary decision today on whether to re-engine its A320-family aircraft, although the airframer states that it is still a long way from a final approval.
It is considering whether there is a solid business case for refreshing the A320 - currently powered by CFM International CFM56 or International Aero Engines V2500s - with a more efficient engine.
The A320 could be fitted with CFM International's Leap-X powerplant or the geared-turbofan Pratt & Whitney PW1000G, as an interim measure before the development of an all-new single-aisle type.
But a spokesman for Airbus says that the decision is "only a first step" and that further internal processes - putting the plan before the executive committee, and then to parent EADS - would still be required.
Airbus has designated the prospective re-engined A320 as the 'new engine option', or NEO, version.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
