Airbus unveils first CFM Leap-1A powered A320neo

Airbus unveils first CFM Leap-1A powered A320neo

The company is utilizing 3D printing (also known as additive layer manufacturing) to produce components for the pylon of A320neo developmental aircraft powered by CFM International’s LEAP-1A – which is one of two new-generation engine choices for the single-aisle NEO Family, along with the PurePower PW1100G-JM from Pratt & Whitney.

Selected by Airbus to produce the 3D-printed pylon components for CFM-powered A320neo jetliners, U.S.-based manufacturer RTI delivered the parts in three months – less than half the time that would be required for their production by traditional casting methods.  

“In developing two different pylons for the A320neo Family’s new engine options over a short period of time, we needed to find innovative solutions,” said Helene Lagier, Airbus’ A320neo Pylon-specified and Standard Parts Customer Team Leader. “3D printing technology has great potential and will be used more and more in future aircraft.”

The use of such advanced manufacturing techniques is helping Airbus continue to advance toward key A320neo project milestones this year, including the certification and subsequent no. 1 delivery of the first NEO version – the Pratt & Whitney-powered A320neo. 

Currently, Airbus has two A320neo jetliners – both powered by Pratt & Whitney engines – flying in its test campaign with the second A320neo test aircraft taking to the skies for the first time at the end of March. It joined Airbus’ initial A320neo developmental jetliner – which performed its historic maiden flight in September 2014. 

The developmental fleet has also expanded with today’s rollout of Airbus’ third flight test aircraft, the no. 1 A320neo powered by CFM International’s LEAP-1A.

In addition to its new engine choices, A320neo Family jetliners also incorporate Airbus’ fuel-saving Sharklets wingtip devices – improvements which will deliver 20 percent reductions in fuel burn for operators.