Airbus began flight testing of the GTF Advantage engines, the next iteration of the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G that equips the A320neo.
This first flight test campaign will allow the engine to be tested in various environments such as hot and cold climates and high-altitude airports. These tests will be supplemented by ground tests conducted by Pratt & Whitney in Mirabel, Canada. The engine has completed more than 2,400 hours and 7,800 test cycles, including a successful test with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Certification should continue through the first half of 2023.
According to Pratt & Whitney, the Advantage model reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 1% compared to the current version of the PW1100G engines that equip the current Airbus A320neo. In addition, it improves take-off thrust at sea level by up to 4% and at high altitudes by up to 8%, allowing greater range and payload. This makes it particularly attractive for the A321XLR. The new model will be able to operate with current GTFs and is also interchangeable with them to ensure maximum operational flexibility.
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Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney, said: “the current GTFs already offer the lowest fuel consumption and CO2 emissions for the A320neo family. The GTF Advantage extends that”. According to the manufacturer, the PW1000G engines reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 16% to 20%. NOx emissions are also reduced by up to 50% and noise by up to 75% compared to Airbus A320ceo engines.
Deurloo adds: “They also improve aircraft capability by increasing thrust. For airlines, this means new revenue opportunities and improved operating economics. We are confident that our turbofan architecture is the most sustainable foundation for engines for decades to come.”
The Advantage family is certified to operate using a blend of sustainable jet fuel and traditional fuel. However, Pratt & Whitney continues to work to certify its engines to operate on 100% SAF.
