GE Aerospace has joined StandardAero to support Boeing’s bid for CMMA’s Boeing P-8A Poseidon jet providing MRO services for the CFM56-7B engines powering the RCAF P-8.
GE Aerospace and StandardAero have joined forces to support Boeing’s bid for Canada’s Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) requirement, particularly focusing on the Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft. If selected, this collaboration will provide comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the CFM International CFM56-7B engines that power the P-8, ensuring that the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) can meet its mission objectives effectively with a reliable multi-mission aircraft.
The Boeing P-8A Poseidon is a versatile maritime patrol aircraft based on the 737-800 ERX platform, powered by two CFM56-7B engines produced by CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines. The CFM56-7B engines have a stellar track record and are known for their reliability.
“Canada can have complete confidence in StandardAero’s ability to support CFM56-7B engine MRO and the requirements of the Royal Canadian Air Force,” said Marc Drobny, President of StandardAero’s Military division. “The Winnipeg operation is one of North America’s leading engine overhaul facilities and is our largest site, supporting more than 1,200 workers,” he further added.
An independent study conducted by economists at Doyletech Corporation, based in Ottawa, has projected significant economic benefits for Canada if the Boeing P-8A Poseidon is chosen for the CMMA requirement. This selection is estimated to generate nearly 3,000 jobs and contribute approximately $358 million annually to Canada’s economy.
StandardAero, a licensed MRO provider for CFM56 engines since 2010, is well-prepared to provide MRO services for the CFM56-7B engines, including those installed on the P-8 aircraft. They have overhauled more than 700 of these engines to date, with over 100 CFM56-7B engines serviced at their Winnipeg facility for military customers worldwide. StandardAero’s Winnipeg operation is one of North America’s premier engine overhaul facilities and employs over 1,200 workers.
“GE is honoured to support Boeing’s bid for the Canada Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) requirement,” said Kris Shepherd, Vice President & General Manager, GE Aerospace Mobility Engines & Marine. “We have a long, established history supporting the RCAF with engines including the CF6, the CF34, the T700 and CT7 engines that power five RCAF aircraft fleets. The high reliability, long on-wing life, and low maintenance costs of the CFM56 engine makes it extremely popular with some 600 airline and military operators worldwide. With our well-established military expertise, extensive presence across Canada and our OEM alignment, we stand ready to deliver our mission to support readiness for Canada’s CMMA requirement,” he further added.
The CFM56 engine family boasts an impressive aviation history, with more than 1.2 billion engine flight hours logged. The CFM56-7B engine, specifically, boasts a world-class dispatch reliability rate of 99.98%, making it a dependable choice for military and commercial aviation.
GE and StandardAero have a history of collaboration dating back to 2012 when they opened a $50 million aircraft engine Testing, Research and Development Centre (TRDC) in Winnipeg. The facility, spanning 122,500 square feet at the James A. Richardson International Airport, was designed and built by GE, with StandardAero responsible for its maintenance and operation under a long-term contract.
StandardAero also has a well-established relationship with GE Aerospace, supporting both the CT7/T700 engine platforms on the Canadian Military EH101 Cormorant and CH-148 Cyclone Helicopters.
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In summary, the collaboration between GE Aerospace and StandardAero brings together their expertise and capabilities to support Boeing’s bid for Canada’s CMMA requirement, focusing on the Boeing P-8A Poseidon. The selection of this aircraft is projected to have substantial economic benefits for Canada, including job creation and economic output. With their extensive experience and strong track record, GE Aerospace and StandardAero are well-prepared to deliver MRO services for the CFM56-7B engines, ensuring the readiness and success of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
