Airbus Industrie has widened the bidding in the contest to power its proposed A319M5 100-seater by inviting International Aero Engines (IAE) to enter a derated 89kN (20,000lb) version of the V2500.
The V2520-A5 version is based on the 98kN V2522-A5 and the 107kN V2524-A5 now offered on the 124-seat A319-100. The engine is in contention for what is expected to be a sole source deal. Rivals include BMW Rolls-Royce's BR715, CFM International's CFM56-5A/5B and Pratt & Whitney's PW6000.
The A319M5 is being considered by Airbus, apparently in parallel with its AE31X studies involving China and Singapore, as a possible competitor for the Boeing 717-200 in the 100-seater market.
IAE president Barry Eccleston says: "If the Airbus family concept is to be extended through the A319M5, I believe the best solution is to continue offering the existing family of engines."
Source: Flight International
