CFM International (CFMI) engines were selected today to power 12 Boeing 737-800 aircraft in three separate agreements announced at the Paris Air Show.
CFM International is a 50/50 joint company of Snecma (Safran Group) of France and General Electric of the United States.
In a memorandum of understanding, Air Europa ordered eight 737-800s powered by CFM56-7 engines. Lauda Air and Eurobelgian Airlines (EBA) each ordered two of the twinjets, also powered by CFM56-7 engines. Initial delivery is scheduled for 1998.
The CFM56-7, rated at 18,500 to 26,400 pounds (82 to 117 kN ) takeoff thrust, is the exclusive powerplant for next-generation Boeing 737-600/-700/-800 series aircraft. CFMI has taken a global cost of ownership approach to developing the engine, and, thus, it offers better performance, improved acoustics, an optional low-emission combustor, and lower cost of ownership than the CFM56-3 engines for the current-generation 737. For example, overall maintenance costs will be reduced by as much as 15 percent compared to the CFM56-3C1.
The CFM56-7 is a state-of-the-art engine that features solid, wide-chord fan blades, 3-D aero design, new materials technology, and an advanced FADEC (Full Authority Digital Electronic Control) system, and has available an optional low-emissions Double Annular Combustor (DAC). The engine incorporates the CFM56-5B/P core and low pressure turbine, in addition to the existing CFM56-3 gearbox and a new booster. The core, low pressure turbine, and booster result in lower operating temperatures and higher exhaust gas temperature margins. As a result, the CFM56-7 will provide operators longer time on wing. Performance improvements being certified on the CFM56-5B will also be incorporated into the CFM56-7.
The engine will enter service with Southwest Airlines in October 1997 on the 737-700; the CFM56-7-powered 737-800 enters service in March 1998 with Hapag Lloyd, while the 737-600 is scheduled to enter service with SAS in August 1998.