Qatar Airways orders LEAP-1A engines, support worth $4 billion

Qatar Airways has ordered CFM International LEAP-1A engines to power its new fleet of 50 Airbus A321neo family aircraft, placing the largest A321neo order ever in the Middle East.

In addition, the national airline of the State of Qatar has also signed with CFM a rate-per-flight-hour (RPFH) support agreement to cover its entire fleet of LEAP-1A engines, including spares, for a combined total value of $4 billion at list price.

Qatar Airways has been a CFM customer since 2015 and currently operates a fleet of eight CFM56-5B-powered A320ceo family aircraft. The first LEAP-1A-powered A321neo is scheduled to be delivered in 2020.

"We chose the LEAP engine based on its proven efficiency in commercial operation. This engine addresses our strategy to operate a state-of-the-art fleet with the most advanced technologies in the industry, while expanding our network and maintaining the best flexibility for our customers," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Akbar Al Baker

“We are excited to take another step forward in our partnership with Qatar Airways,” said Gaël Méheust, president and CEO of CFM International. “This agreement shows the continued confidence this airline has in our products and we look forward to working closely with them to introduce the fuel-efficient LEAP engine into their fleet. We also look forward to supporting Qatar Airways’ continued growth and maintaining lower operating costs.”

CFM International’s advanced LEAP engine fleet continues the most rapid buildup in commercial aviation history, logging more than five million engine flight hours through August 2019, three years after commencing commercial service.

Multiple award-winning airline Qatar Airways currently operates a modern fleet of more than 250 aircraft via its hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), to more than 160 destinations worldwide.

The LEAP engine is a product of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between GE and Safran Aircraft Engines. CFM has received orders and commitments for more than 18,750 LEAP engines, including spares, across all three models through September 2019.