Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp. (UTX), announced that JetSMART has selected the Pratt & Whitney GTF engine to power 85 firm order Airbus A320neo family aircraft. Pratt & Whitney will also provide JetSMART with GTF engine maintenance through a 12-year EngineWise Comprehensive service agreement. The first aircraft is expected to be delivered in the third quarter of 2019.

 

“The GTF-powered A320neo family aircraft will be a great addition to JetSMART´s current A320ceo fleet, facilitating continued growth of operations to include expansion in the South American market, while benefitting from reduced fuel burn, emissions and noise. So far, we have an impeccable operation, so this agreement, with one of the most prestigious engine companies in the world, reassures our strong commitment with our passengers that we will continue operating with the highest safety standards. The efficiency gained with the A320neo will allow us to further reduce our cost and provide our customers with lower fares across South America,” said Estuardo Ortiz, JetSMART CEO.

 

“We are excited for JetSMART to join the GTF family and begin receiving the fuel savings that will help the airline maintain its low cost approach while powering its growth,” said Rick Deurloo, chief customer officer and senior vice president, Customers at Pratt & Whitney. “Pratt & Whitney is proud to support the continued industry growth in the Latin American market.”

 

Since entering into service in early 2016, the GTF engine has demonstrated its promised ability to reduce fuel burn by 16 percent, to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 50 percent compared to the regulatory standard, and to reduce the noise footprint by 75 percent.