#None #Pratt & Whitney #APU #Lufthansa

Strategic Partnership Announcement

In an important development within the aerospace sector, Pratt & Whitney Canada has finalized a substantial 14-year maintenance and support agreement with two prominent airlines, Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Both carriers are divisions of the Lufthansa Group. This collaboration is set to enhance the operational capabilities of their joint fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, specifically focusing on the maintenance of 41 APS5000 auxiliary power units (APUs).

The Role of the APS5000 APU

The APS5000 APU, designed specifically for the Boeing 787 platform, serves a critical function in powering the aircraft during ground operations when the main engines are not running and no external power is available. According to Anthony Rossi, Pratt & Whitney Canada's Vice President of Customer Service, the APS5000 not only provides necessary electrical power, but also enables two electric starters for the main engines. This functionality is pivotal in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the Boeing 787 fleet’s dispatch processes.

Key Highlights from the Agreement

The newly established maintenance plan aims to offer flexibility, predictable cost management, and optimized performance for Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. The goal is to minimize downtime and maximize operational efficiency, especially as the airlines expand their use of the Boeing 787 in long-haul routes. Binoj Sebastian, Senior Director of Technical Procurement at Lufthansa Airlines, emphasized the necessity of reliability in maintenance services to maintain their competitive edge in long-distance travel.

Sebastian pointed out that this agreement underscores their confidence in both the APS5000 APU's capabilities and Pratt & Whitney as a trusted partner, highlighting the importance of innovation and efficiency in their technical operations.

Pratt & Whitney Canada is committed to delivering maintenance programs that align with the operational demands of its clients, enhancing the utilization of their APU fleet, which boasts a remarkable history of performance. With more than 1,400 APS5000 units produced and a flight history encompassing nearly 16 million hours, the APS5000 holds the title of the quietest APU in its class while maintaining the lowest emissions in the industry.

The Bigger Picture: Pratt & Whitney and RTX

Pratt & Whitney stands as a leading entity in the design, manufacture, and service of aircraft propulsion systems and auxiliary power units across military, commercial, and civil aviation sectors. This endeavor is part of RTX, the world’s largest aerospace and defense company, further solidifying its position as a crucial player in advancing aviation technologies that meet global challenges. With a workforce exceeding 185,000, RTX is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation, as evidenced by its extensive product offerings and commitment to sustainability.

Conclusion

The landmark agreement between Pratt & Whitney Canada and the Lufthansa Group is a testament to the evolving dynamics of the aviation industry, where reliability and operational efficiency are paramount. As both airlines bolster their Boeing 787 fleets with the support of Pratt & Whitney, the future looks promising for both partners, ensuring high performance and seamless travel experiences for passengers worldwide. This strategic partnership not only places value on maintenance excellence but also underlines the commitment to operational integrity and environmental responsibility in today’s aviation landscape.