Upbeat comments from the world's engine makers are gathering pace at Farnborough, with GE forecasting that the number of small commercial jets in service will more than triple in the next 20 years, increasing from 2,000 aircraft in 2004 to more than 7,000 in 2023.
GE expects its CF34 order book to reach 300 engines this year. Engine deliveries will top 400 this year, marking the third consecutive year of more than 400 engines delivered to customers.
"The small commercial jet segment remains dynamic and healthy overall," says Charles Blankenship, general manager of GE's Small Commercial Engine Operation. "We anticipate growing the installed base of CF34 engines to double the current size by 2008, with newer deliveries favouring the larger 70-100 passenger aircraft. The continued growth enables us to invest in new technology to improve durability and lower the cost of ownership for our customers."
The CF34 engine family includes the -3, -8 and -10 models.
The CF34-3A1 and -3B1 engines, in the 9,000lb (40 kN) thrust class, power 880 of the 50-passenger Bombardier CRJ100 and CRJ200 aircraft in service.
The CF34-8C1, rated at 13,800lb thrust, powers 128 of the 70-passenger Bombardier CRJ700 aircraft. The CF34-8C5, rated at 14,500lb thrust, powers 18 of the 86-passenger Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft in operation.
The CF34-8E, also rated at 14,500lb thrust, entered service in April of this year with the Polish flag carrier LOT, powering the 70-passenger Embraer 170 aircraft.
The CF34-10, rated at 18,500lb thrust, successfully completed its first flight in March of this year, powering the 90-passenger Embraer 190. Aircraft certification is scheduled for July 2005.
GEOFF THOMAS
Source: Flight Daily News
