United Airlines has solidified its commitment to enhancing its Boeing 787 fleet by selecting the General Electric GEnx engines for ongoing and future aircraft operations. The deal, announced on March 15, 2023, involves the acquisition of an additional 300 GEnx engines along with spare parts, building on the existing 200 GEnx-powered 787 airplanes already in service.
This strategic partnership, which has flourished since 1968, positions United Airlines as the largest operator of GEnx engines globally. The airline’s long-standing collaboration with GE Aerospace highlights the trust placed in one of the leading aircraft engine manufacturers. The GEnx engines have established a reputation for reliability, boasting a dispatch rate exceeding 99.98% and accumulating over 70 million hours of operational service worldwide.
Significance of the GEnx Engine
The GEnx engine has become the engine of choice for many operators of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, as it powers more than two-thirds of all active 787s. With United Airlines’ latest order, the total future delivery pipeline for the GEnx will surpass 1,800 engines, along with additional spare parts. The engine’s durability and extended lifespan make it a preferred option for airlines looking to maximize operational efficiency.
According to data from ch-aviation, United Airlines currently operates a diverse fleet of over 81 Boeing 787 aircraft, encompassing all three variants of this highly regarded aircraft model. The airline has 48 of the 787-9 variant in service, which stands as the largest segment of its 787 fleet, followed by 21 787-10 and 12 787-8 aircraft. With an additional 140 787s on order, United’s fleet is set to grow further, incorporating advanced features such as the upgraded Polaris cabin and larger seat-back entertainment screens.
Technological Advancements and Environmental Impact
The GEnx engine is recognized as one of the fastest-selling jet engines in the world, offering leading-edge technologies that enhance performance and efficiency. It provides a 1.4% reduction in CO2 emissions annually compared to its closest competitors over a 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 km) flight. This commitment to environmental responsibility is part of a broader industry trend towards sustainable aviation practices.
The GEnx incorporates advanced materials and design innovations, resulting in a lighter engine weight of approximately 300 pounds (136 kg) and improved longevity for life-limited parts. The introduction of composite fan blades, a technology pioneered in the GE90 engine in 1995, has significantly enhanced the efficiency of the GEnx. Additionally, the GEnx features the first FAA-approved 3D printed component, underscoring GE Aerospace’s commitment to innovation.
Mohamed Ali, President & CEO of GE Aerospace Commercial Engines & Services, emphasized the significance of this partnership in a recent statement: “GE Aerospace has an enduring relationship with United that spans decades. This deal will make United the largest GEnx operator in the world, and we’re honored they continue to choose us to power their success.”
As United Airlines continues to expand its fleet and enhance operational efficiency, the partnership with GE Aerospace and the integration of GEnx engines will play a crucial role in shaping the airline’s future.
