CFM International is maintaining output of Leap-1B engines for the 737 Max, despite Boeing's decision to trim production of the narrowbody.
Boeing has cut monthly production of the single-aisle from 52 to 42 units as a result of the 737 Max grounding and efforts to return the type to service.
Safran – which jointly owns CFM with GE Aviation – says Leap-1B production is being maintained "at this point", but notes that it might implement "temporary adjustments if necessary".
In February, Safran said CFM had overcome a delivery delay for Leap-1A engines – an option on the Airbus A320neo family – which had developed in 2018 as a result of supply-chain bottlenecks relating to forgings and castings. However, at that point, Leap-1B production was still three weeks behind schedule, it said.
Leap assembly line at Safran
Safran
During the first quarter, CFM's deliveries grew to 577 engines, from 498 during the same period in 2018.
Leap production rose to 424 units – from 186 – while CFM56 deliveries decreased from 312 to 153 as part of a planned ramp-down for the legacy powerplant.
First-quarter revenue for Safran's aerospace propulsion business grew by 19.6% year on year to €2.74 billion ($3.07 billion).
Group chief executive Philippe Petitcolin states: "We stand behind our customers and follow very closely the announcements regarding the 737 Max in order to adapt if necessary."
Source: FlightGlobal.com
