Snecma chooses AFI KLM E&M for LEAP engine development tests

Snecma (Safran), which is developing the LEAP engine with GE through their 50/50 joint company CFM International, has signed an agreement with AFI KLM E&M to carry out engine development tests. The LEAP is the successor of the best-selling CFM56 and has already been chosen for the Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737 MAX and Comac C919 single-aisle jets. The LEAP engine will see the highest ramp-up in commercial aviation – reaching a production rate of more than 1.700 engines per year by 2019. To meet this challenge and to conduct all tests required for the LEAP’s development and certification, Snecma needed a trustworthy partner with solid experience. AFI KLM E&M will conduct development tests concurrently with the ambitious test program already being conducted by Snecma and GE: a total of 20 engines to be tested by year-end and 60 engines will be built over the next three years and will accumulate approximately 40,000 cycles before entry into service.