By Jordan Green
Pratt & Whitney and JetBlue Sign Long Term Engine Service Agreement
On July 30, 2020, Pratt & Whitney, through its affiliate International Aero Engines (IAE), announced the signing of a 13-year service agreement for 230 IAE V2500 engines. The service agreement is part of Pratt & Whitney’s “EngineWise” offering, which provides engine operators with services to maximize engine performance and fleet availability.
AirlineGeeks was not able to obtain specific details regarding what services are included in the agreement. However, EngineWise offerings include maintenance services, materials (parts and repair) services, and intelligence (operational data and engine health management) services. EngineWise also includes a field service network, customer training resources, a global operations center that provides real-time technical solutions and an electronic customer portal.
The agreement should come as no surprise, as JetBlue operates 193 of the “current engine option” or “ceo” variant of the Airbus A320 powered by the V2500. “The V2500 engine has been the workhorse of the JetBlue fleet since the airline’s inception,” Steve Priest, JetBlue’s Chief Financial Officer said. “This agreement provides predictable maintenance and supports efficient operations needed to serve our customers for many years to come.”
Pratt & Whitney echoed JetBlue’s positive sentiments about the agreement. “We truly appreciate our long-standing and successful relationship with JetBlue,” said Rick Deurloo, Chief Commercial Officer at Pratt & Whitney. “We are committed to partnering with the airline on V2500 engine maintenance to optimize fleet performance well into the future.”
This agreement shows that airlines continue to be attracted to manufacturer-sponsored maintenance programs. Especially in light of the financial strain, the COVID-19 pandemic has put on airlines, these programs will no doubt continue to increase in popularity with their ability to provide carriers with increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness in fleet management and operations.
Jordan focuses his writing on innovations in commercial aviation, aviation history, and other interesting topics he feels are worthy of discussion in the community.
