Rolls-Royce and Pratt & Whitney have abandoned plans for a joint venture to develop an engine to power future narrowbodies.
The two engine makers had in October 2011 declared their intention to pursue the collaboration, to be focused on high-bypass ratio geared turbofan technology to power aircraft in the 120- to 230-seat segment. "In addition, the venture will collaborate on future studies for next-generation propulsion, including advanced geared engines, open-rotor technology and other advanced configurations," they said at the time.
Now, citing "the current regulatory environment", Rolls-Royce says "the parties have agreed not to proceed with the partnership". The tie-up had been targeted after they and the other members of the International Aero Engines consortium failed to agree on an offering for the Airbus A320neo family. That led Pratt & Whitney to strike out on its own with the PW1100G.
"Rolls-Royce remains fully committed to this important market segment, and will continue to invest in technologies that will enable us to take advantage of opportunities as they arise," says the UK manufacturer.
UTC-owned Pratt & Whitney says it "will continue independently to invest in and develop applications of its geared turbofan engine to power the next generation of mid-sized aircraft".
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
