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RTX's Pratt & Whitney GTF Engine Receives FAA Certification for A321XLR

In a significant advancement for aviation technology, Pratt & Whitney has confirmed that its GTF (Geared Turbofan) engine has received certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to power the Airbus A321XLR. This development is expected to broaden the operational capabilities of the A321XLR, which is renowned for its longer range and higher payload capacity, thus enabling operators to access more destinations effectively.

On December 12, the FAA granted the engine type certificate, which is tailored for the PW1100G-JM engine variant designated for the A321XLR. Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney, highlighted the significance of this milestone, emphasizing that the GTF engine was the pioneer for the A320neo aircraft family.

With the A321XLR, airlines can leverage the GTF engine's exceptional fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, setting a benchmark for sustainability in single-aisle aircraft. The GTF engines promise to enhance airline operational efficiencies, offering up to a 20% improvement in fuel consumption compared to older engine models. Since its introduction in 2016, GTF engines have collectively saved operators around 2 billion gallons of fuel and 20 million metric tons of CO2 emissions.

Currently, thirteen airlines have selected GTF engines to equip 217 A321XLR aircraft, reflecting a positive reception within the market. The certification of the GTF engine heralds a new era of operational flexibility for airlines, allowing them to expand their route offerings while maintaining competitive fuel economy.

Looking ahead, the GTF Advantage engine—set for certification and delivery in the upcoming year—aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the A321XLR further. This new variant will deliver a 4-8% increase in takeoff thrust along with an additional 1% in fuel efficiency, optimizing the time the engines can remain in service. Importantly, the GTF Advantage will be designed for seamless compatibility with existing GTF models, ensuring no disruption to current operators.

Pratt & Whitney continues to lead in the design and manufacturing of aircraft engines, as well as auxiliary power units, strengthening its reputation in the aerospace industry. Their commitment to providing innovative solutions is underlined by their ongoing investment in technologies that align with the growing demand for environmentally sensitive aviation options.

About Pratt & Whitney

Pratt & Whitney is a globally recognized leader in aerospace propulsion technology, dedicated to advancing the design, manufacture, and service of aircraft engines. With an emphasis on innovation, their products continue to reshape the aviation landscape. To learn more about their initiatives and products, visit prattwhitney.com.

About RTX

RTX stands at the forefront of technology and science, with a workforce exceeding 185,000 spread across the globe. The company encompasses industry-leading businesses including Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon, collectively striving to improve and secure critical infrastructure for customers worldwide. In 2023, RTX reported sales of $69 billion, further solidifying its position in the market while targeting future challenges in aerospace and defense.

This FAA certification is a crucial step for the aviation industry as it navigates the path toward enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. With advancements like the GTF engine, the future of air travel looks promising and sustainable.