The Pratt & Whitney (P&W) PW1100G GTF engine issue significantly impacted Cebu Pacific, forcing the airline to ground several planes. However, the airline quickly mitigated the effects by acquiring more aircraft, including used ones and older generation A320ceos. Despite the challenges faced, it was surprising to see Cebu Pacific still choose P&W as the engine supplier for their newly ordered 152 Airbus A320neo family aircraft. The airline had a good reason to continue with the PW1100G over the CFM LEAP-1A.
With that, it seems like Cebu Pacific remains optimistic about the long-term performance of the PW1100G engines, despite the ongoing challenges associated with the powerplant. This confidence comes after a careful evaluation process during the airline’s recent commitment to up to 152 A320neo aircraft family, which will rely on these engines for their operations.
Decision to Stick with Pratt & Whitney Engines
During a recent earnings call, Cebu Pacific’s deputy chief financial officer, Mark Cezar, addressed the decision to continue with the P&W PW1100G engines despite the known difficulties. Cezar explained that the airline conducted an in-depth comparison with the competing CFM International LEAP-1A engine before making its decision. Ultimately, the airline chose to remain with P&W, considering the long-term implications of engine performance and maintenance on its fleet, which is expected to be in service well into the 2040s.
“We had a long, good look at the LEAP engine, and ultimately I think this is a decision that we will have to wear for a really long time, well into the 2040s based on our pattern of usage, of using aircraft for 10-12 years,” Cezar stated. “These are aircraft and engines that will stay in our fleet well into the 2040s, so we had to make a decision on what we think reasonably will happen, and which one will be the better engine in the longer term.”
Addressing the Challenges
Cebu Pacific’s fleet includes a significant number of aircraft powered by the PW1100G engines. As of June (year), 44 of the airline’s 87 aircraft were A320neos equipped with these engines. Despite the challenges, including grounding of up to 20 A320neo family jets as recently as November (year), Cebu Pacific has seen some improvement this year. The number of grounded aircraft has reduced to 10-15, allowing the airline to increase its operational capacity.
Cezar highlighted the advantages of the PW1100G engine’s architecture, noting its potential for fuel savings due to the advanced reduction gears used to enhance efficiency. Despite the ongoing issues, the airline believes the engine will prove to be superior in the long run.
Improvements and Future Outlook
Cebu Pacific’s chief executive, Mike Szucs, acknowledged that the challenges with the PW1100G engines are expected to continue for another two years. However, he also noted that the situation is gradually improving. Szucs pointed out that P&W has been able to speed up engine shop visits, particularly for engines requiring short maintenance checks. This prioritization has improved engine availability, which is critical for maintaining the airline’s operational schedule.
“When our engines come off to go into the shop, they really only need an inspection on the powdered metal issue, and then can be released again,” Szucs explained.
The powdered metal issue refers to contamination in the material used to manufacture high-pressure turbine and compressor disks. This defect has necessitated the grounding of thousands of PW1100-powered aircraft worldwide for inspections and potential repairs.
To support its operations and mitigate the impact of engine maintenance, Cebu Pacific has received seven spare engines this year, further ensuring that the airline can maintain its flight schedule despite ongoing challenges.
Source: FlightGlobal
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