British Airways Selects CFM56-5B Engine to Power New A318 Aircraft

British Airways has selected CFM International’s CFM56-5B engine to power two new Airbus A318 aircraft, in an engine order valued at more than $25 million at list price.

The aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2009. CFM International, an aircraft engine manufacturer, is a 50-50 joint venture company between Snecma and General Electric.

British Airways (BA) is a long-time CFM customer and currently operates a fleet of more than 80 CFM56 engines, powering classic Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft. The airline will use the new A318s on is all business-class route between London City and New York’s John F Kennedy airports.

CFM said that the CFM56-5B9/3 engines powering BA’s new A318 aircraft will be in the tech insertion configuration, which incorporates advanced technologies to provide operators with improved fuel burn and lower maintenance costs.

Willie Walsh, CEO of British Airways, said: “The CFM56-5B-powered A318 will bring great operating economics to this route. The tech insertion package brings a wealth of benefits, lower fuel burn, lower emissions, lower maintenance costs, all coupled with the outstanding reliability of the CFM56 product line.”