As it continues to deal with engine problems globally, Pratt & Whitney announced that it will invest 10 million dollars to expand the capabilities and upgrade the technology at its component repair facility in Wichita Falls, Texas.
The company will modify its existing coatings line and install an innovative application process. Thirty new jobs will be created once the work is completed.
See also: Pratt & Whitney engine crisis in India: 60 Airbus remain grounded
Pratt & Whitney to upgrade its Wichita Falls maintenance facility
The Wichita Falls facility is currently carrying out repairs to the combustion sections of several of the manufacturer’s engines. During this process, parts such as turbine blades are given a special coating to protect them from the high temperatures. As part of the investment, Pratt & Whitney will install a new maintenance line that will implement a newly developed coating technique that would optimise engine performance.
According to the company, construction work will begin «before mid-2023» and will be completed by early 2025.
«We continue to invest and grow in Wichita Falls because of the strength of the local workforce, the support of the community, and the enthusiastic ‘can do’ attitude of our Wichita Falls team and leadership», said Irene Makris, VP of Customer Service for Pratt & Whitney Canada. «Our Wichita Falls facility will be the first of our plants to pioneer a new coating process which will significantly improve the durability and performance of our engines», she noted.
«We are delighted with Pratt & Whitney Canada’s decision to continue to grow in Wichita Falls and we are proud to support this investment in the facility to bring more work and more job opportunities to the city’s residents,» said Stephen Santellana, Mayor of Wichita Falls.
Meanwhile, engine problems continue
In recent times, a growing number of operators have faced problems with Pratt & Whitney products. Carriers around the world are affected by shortages of engines and spare parts, especially for their latest-generation narrow-body aircraft.
The situation particularly impacts aircraft equipped with a single powerplant, reducing the alternatives to maintenance problems. Many users report inconvenience, while the manufacturer continues to delay repair schedules due to difficulties in providing spare parts, as its own suppliers struggle with a backlog of subcomponent orders.
Pratt & Whitney said it is actively working to optimise supply chain performance and spare parts availability at its various facilities.
See also: Pratt & Whitney’s production plant in Asheville was commissioned
