RTX says ‘significant portion’ of GTF engines powering A320neo aircraft need inspection
2023.07.25 08:04
© Reuters. FILE PHOTO: Visitor passes the Raytheon Technologies Corporation (RTX) logo at the 54th International Paris Air Show at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, France, June 22, 2023. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo
(Reuters) -RTX Corp said on Tuesday a “significant portion” of Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engines that power Airbus A320neo jets will need “accelerated removals and inspections” within the next nine to twelve months.
RTX shares fell 4% in premarket trading, while Paris-listed Airbus’ stock was down about 0.5% in regular trade.
“Pratt & Whitney has determined that a rare condition in powder metal used to manufacture certain engine parts will require accelerated fleet inspection,” RTX said, while adding there is no impact on engines that are in production.
Airbus did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
About 200 “accelerated removals” from fleet containing PW1100G-JM engines will be needed by mid-September this year, RTX said.
“The business is working to minimize operational impacts and support its customers,” RTX added.
RTX unit Pratt & Whitney has been facing issues related to its GTF engines in hot and dusty climates. Low-cost Indian carrier Go First, which plunged into financial crisis this year, blamed “faulty” Pratt & Whitney engines for the grounding of about half its 54 Airbus A320neos.
Meanwhile, RTX said on Tuesday it now expects 2023 sales of $73 billion to $74 billion, compared with its prior forecast of $72 billion to $73 billion.
