Pratt & Whitney is strengthening its global MRO capabilities through the expanded use of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered engine inspection technology, a move expected to improve inspection accuracy, reduce turnaround times and enhance engine reliability across commercial, civil and military fleets.
The company announced that it has acquired and integrated Amsterdam-based Aiir Innovations, enabling the wider deployment of AI-assisted borescope inspection software across its worldwide MRO network. The technology represents a significant step forward in engine inspection by combining artificial intelligence with traditional borescope examinations to deliver faster, more consistent and data-driven maintenance assessments.
The latest development forms part of Pratt & Whitney’s broader digital transformation strategy, where advanced analytics and AI are increasingly being integrated into engine maintenance to improve operational efficiency while supporting customers with higher aircraft availability.
AI to transform engine inspection process
Traditionally, borescope inspections rely heavily on the expertise of trained inspectors to visually assess internal engine components for wear, cracks, foreign object damage and other defects. Pratt & Whitney’s AI-powered software enhances this process by analysing borescope video footage in real time, assisting inspectors in identifying anomalies more quickly and consistently.
The technology delivers repeatable inspection results, reduces the potential for human variability and enables maintenance teams to make faster and more informed decisions regarding engine health.
According to the company, the software also automates reporting functions, significantly reducing administrative effort. Inspection reports that previously required considerable time to compile can now be generated within minutes while providing greater traceability, consistency and documentation accuracy.
Faster turnaround, higher engine availability
Pratt & Whitney believes the expanded use of AI-assisted inspections will deliver tangible operational benefits across its global MRO network. By detecting potential issues earlier and streamlining inspection workflows, the technology is expected to shorten engine shop visit times, improve maintenance turnaround and increase engine time on wing, ultimately reducing operational disruptions for airline, military and business aviation customers.
The company noted that the AI platform continuously improves through inspector feedback, allowing the software to become increasingly accurate over time by learning from real-world maintenance expertise.
Technology already supporting multiple engine programmes
The AI-assisted inspection capability has already been deployed for commercial airline customers and maintenance providers supporting the V2500 engine programme, where it has significantly reduced inspection times. Pratt & Whitney has also successfully completed pilot programmes using the technology on its GTF (Geared Turbofan) commercial engines and the F135 military engine, which powers the Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter aircraft.
Following the successful trials, the company plans to expand the technology across additional engine programmes throughout its global operations.
Commenting on the development, Rob Griffiths, Senior Vice President, Commercial Engines Operations at Pratt & Whitney, said the wider adoption of AI-assisted inspections would fundamentally transform engine maintenance. “Broadening the integration of AI-assisted inspection capability strengthens our ability to detect issues earlier, improve turnaround times, increase time on wing and reduce operational disruption for our customers. It will fundamentally reshape how engines and components are inspected, maintained and supported throughout their lifecycle, as we increase its application across Pratt & Whitney.”
The announcement reflects a broader trend across the aviation maintenance industry, where artificial intelligence, machine learning and predictive analytics are becoming increasingly important tools for improving maintenance efficiency and reducing aircraft downtime.
As airlines continue to face supply chain challenges, engine shortages and longer maintenance cycles, digital inspection technologies are emerging as valuable solutions that help MRO providers optimise maintenance planning, improve inspection quality and maximise fleet availability.
By integrating AI directly into engine inspection workflows, Pratt & Whitney is positioning itself at the forefront of next-generation digital MRO practices, supporting more efficient maintenance operations while delivering enhanced reliability and lifecycle support for thousands of engines operating worldwide.
Pratt & Whitney currently supports more than 90,000 in-service aircraft engines through its global network of maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities, serving commercial, military and civil aviation customers across the world.
