Airbus Confident in FAA Approval for A350-900 Engine Variant Following EASA Clearance

Airbus Confident in FAA Approval for A350-900 Engine Variant Following EASA Clearance

Enhanced Efficiency and Environmental Benefits

Airbus has expressed strong confidence that the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will soon approve its upgraded engine for the A350-900, following recent certification by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The new Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 Enhanced Performance (EP) engine, developed in collaboration with Rolls-Royce, is designed to deliver improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. This advancement aligns with Airbus’s broader commitment to sustainability and aims to provide airlines with significant operational cost savings.

The Trent XWB-84 EP engine is expected to reduce fuel consumption by approximately one percent compared to previous models. While this figure may appear modest, it represents substantial long-term savings for carriers and a meaningful reduction in environmental impact. Specifically tailored for the A350-900 variant, the engine underwent extensive ground and flight testing to validate its safety and performance before securing EASA approval.

Julien Puyou, Airbus’ Head of Widebody Programs, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, “With EASA’s certification of the Trent XWB-84 EP to power the A350-900, we strengthen the aircraft’s position as the long-range leader. Together with Rolls-Royce, this latest evolution underscores our joint commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.” The A350 family is already recognized for its advanced technology, offering lower fuel consumption, reduced noise, and competitive operating costs. The introduction of the enhanced engine is expected to further reinforce its standing as one of the most efficient widebody aircraft available.

FAA Approval Expected Soon Amid Industry Shifts

Airbus anticipates that FAA approval for the Trent XWB-84 EP engine will follow in the near term, enabling wider adoption among U.S. carriers. The American market remains critical for Airbus, with major airlines such as Delta, American, and United operating substantial Airbus fleets. Additionally, carriers like Frontier and Spirit Airlines exclusively fly Airbus aircraft, while JetBlue is preparing to introduce the Airbus A220, highlighting the manufacturer’s strong presence in the United States.

This development comes at a pivotal moment as Boeing continues to face production delays linked to ongoing supply chain challenges. The situation has fostered cautious optimism within the industry, with airlines closely monitoring both manufacturers’ capacity to deliver new, more efficient aircraft.

Tariffs Pose Potential Hurdle for U.S. Rollout

Despite Airbus’s optimism, the introduction of the Trent XWB-84 EP engine in the U.S. market may encounter obstacles due to existing import tariffs. Recent U.S. trade policies have increased the cost of importing aircraft and components, potentially raising acquisition expenses for American airlines and complicating fleet renewal strategies. Industry experts warn that such tariffs could delay the deployment of more environmentally friendly and cost-effective aircraft, thereby hindering efforts to modernize fleets and reduce emissions.

As trade and tariff negotiations continue, the aviation sector remains attentive, hoping for a resolution that facilitates the adoption of next-generation, greener technologies without imposing prohibitive costs on airlines or passengers.