Nexcelle begins nacelle hardware manufacturing

Nexcelle’s role in the creation of next-generation integrated propulsion systems (IPS) has marked important milestones as hardware manufacturing is now underway for the innovative O-Duct on the CFM International LEAP-1C powerplant, and an inlet section for the GE Passport engine. These milestones underscore ongoing progress at Nexcelle’s two parent companies – Aircelle (Safran) and GE Aviation’s Middle River Aircraft Systems – for both of Nexcelle’s programs: the LEAP-1C, which is to equip COMAC’s C919 twin-jet airliner; and the Passport, to power Bombardier Global 7000 and Global 8000 twin-engine business aircraft. Nexcelle’s first-manufactured element for the Passport powerplant is a single-piece component that fits inside the air inlet, directing airflow into the engine. This 360-deg. composite bonded component is built by Middle River Aircraft Systems at its production site near Baltimore, Maryland.