Comparing the Leap and GTF Engines in 2024

Comparing the Leap and GTF Engines in 2024

Performance Trends and Reliability Developments

In 2024, the aviation industry continues to grapple with engine-related challenges that have significantly influenced fleet operations and manufacturer strategies. The performance trajectories of the CFM International Leap and Pratt & Whitney’s PW1000G geared turbofan (GTF) engines have notably diverged over the past year, reflecting differing responses to technical issues and market demands.

At the outset of 2023, both the Leap and GTF engines exhibited comparable rates of monthly non-flying days—a key indicator affected by maintenance, technical faults, and operational factors. Since then, the Leap engine has made substantial strides in reliability. Non-flying days for aircraft powered by the Leap have decreased from approximately 20% in early 2023 to single-digit figures by mid-2024. This improvement occurred despite a temporary increase in January following the grounding of Boeing 737-9 aircraft after the Alaska Airlines door plug incident. CFM has actively pursued durability enhancements, including upcoming upgrades to high-pressure turbines and nozzles, which are expected to further bolster engine performance. Although Airbus has reported delivery delays for Leap-powered A320neo family aircraft due to engine supply constraints, Safran, CFM’s co-parent, remains optimistic about the engine’s strong market position. The Leap’s enhanced reliability has enabled operators to reduce operational disruptions and maintain competitive scheduling, reinforcing its appeal amid ongoing industry pressures.

Conversely, Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engine has encountered a more turbulent period. Since the disclosure in July 2023 of issues related to high-pressure turbine blades, there has been a steady increase in the number of GTF engines withdrawn from service for inspection and technical updates. The scarcity of spare engines has contributed to prolonged ground times for affected aircraft, with non-flying days rising through March 2024. Nevertheless, recent data indicates a modest improvement: since April 2024, the rate of non-flying days for GTF-powered fleets has stabilized and begun to decline slightly. Pratt & Whitney had anticipated that the second quarter of 2024 would represent the peak of these operational disruptions, and current trends suggest the industry may now be entering a phase of stabilization. While challenges remain, this plateau offers airlines a more predictable environment for scheduling maintenance and implementing updates.

Market Dynamics and Future Prospects

Looking forward, Pratt & Whitney’s introduction of the GTF Advantage engine, slated to enter service in 2024, promises enhanced fuel efficiency and improved performance. This development underscores the manufacturer’s commitment to regaining competitiveness in a market marked by rapid technological evolution. Both engine makers and operators continue to collaborate closely to expedite technical updates and return grounded aircraft to service with minimal delay.

The competitive landscape remains intense, with CFM’s Leap engine demonstrating resilience through reduced non-flying days and sustained market confidence from Safran. Meanwhile, Pratt & Whitney aims to restore operator trust and market share through the GTF Advantage’s advancements. As the Northern Hemisphere approaches its winter schedule, the industry’s focus intensifies on optimizing operations and minimizing disruptions. The coming months will be critical in determining the pace of recovery for the GTF engine and the role both engine families will play in shaping the future performance of narrowbody fleets worldwide.