Drukair has selected CFM International’s LEAP-1A engines to power five Airbus A320neo family aircraft, expanding the airline’s use of LEAP engines and its relationship with CFM.
The selection covers three Airbus A320neo and two A321XLR aircraft that Drukair announced in 2024. The Bhutanese carrier currently operates one LEAP-powered A320neo alongside three CFM56-powered A319ceo aircraft.
“We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with CFM through this purchase of LEAP-1A engines,” said Tandi Wangchuk, CEO of Drukair. “The LEAP-1A assets in terms of efficiency and reliability will support Drukair’s next phase of growth across Asia while helping us strengthen connectivity and deliver greater value to our passengers.”
Drukair has been a CFM customer since 2004, when it received its first Airbus A319ceo powered by CFM56 engines. The new selection will further increase the share of LEAP-powered aircraft in its fleet as the airline introduces additional A320neo family aircraft.
“We are honored by Drukair’s renewed confidence in CFM products and support,” said Gaël Méheust, president and CEO of CFM International. “We remain committed to playing a major role in Drukair’s growth and to ensuring smooth ramp of LEAP-powered aircraft in its fleet, with the highest standards in customer support.”
The LEAP fleet has also been subject to ongoing product and aftermarket improvements. CFM is introducing a high-pressure turbine (HPT) durability kit designed to extend engine time on wing, along with a reverse bleed system (RBS).
CFM said these upgrades form part of its focus on engine availability and MRO performance as the global LEAP fleet continues to expand.
Also Read – Flair Airlines signs 15-year LEAP-1B support deal with Lufthansa Technik
With more than 10,000 LEAP engines delivered, CFM is also supporting the fleet through an open MRO ecosystem that allows multiple providers to participate in LEAP engine maintenance.
For Drukair, the additional LEAP-1A engines will expand its next-generation narrowbody engine fleet while increasing its future requirements for engine maintenance, component support, and aftermarket services.
