‘Preliminary' discussions start but US supplier rules out offer of new centreline design
Pratt & Whitney has emerged as the only major engine manufacturer prepared to discuss a powerplant for Bombardier's proposed CSeries twinjet.
The two suppliers on Bombardier's initial shortlist, CFM International and International Aero Engines, have withdrawn from negotiations to supply an engine for the planned 110- to 130-seat aircraft (Flight International, 17-23 May), forcing the Canadian airframe manufacturer to open talks with "individual engine makers".
However Rolls-Royce has effectively ruled itself out, saying it would be involved in an engine with CSeries thrust requirements only through IAE, its joint venture with P&W. General Electric also says it would yield any CSeries bid to its own joint venture with Safran, CFM International.
P&W says it is considering the project and has begun "very preliminary" talks with Bombardier, but adds it is not prepared to build the new centreline engine pivotal to the CSeries' projected efficiencies. "The talks are about what current product, technology and engine family can be adapted for the CSeries. No new centreline engine is being discussed."
Bombardier's CSeries proposal is centred on 21,000-23,000lb thrust (93-102kN) engines 15% more efficient than the current powerplants available for aircraft in the 110- to 130-seat market. This sector includes the now-defunct R-R BR715-powered Boeing 717, Boeing's CFM56-powered 737-600 and the Airbus A318, which can be equipped with the CFM56 or P&W's PW6000.
Bombardier has maintained it will launch the CSeries only if a new engine is developed, and had already rejected a PW6000 derivative offered by P&W last year.
However, earlier this month CFMI confirmed Bombardier had considered a CFM56-based offer until the engine manufacturer decided to pull out. Then, last week, Bombardier's president of commercial aircraft programmes Gary Scott said he was "open to a derivative", but only if it was "significantly upgraded".
DARREN SHANNON/WASHINGTON DC
Source: Flight International
