CFM delivers first LEAP-1C to COMAC

CFM International and Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) celebrated delivery of the first CFM LEAP-1C engine to the aircraft manufacturer. This engine will be installed on the first C919 airplane in preparation for airplane roll out and first flight. The LEAP engine was officially launched in December 2009 when COMAC selected the LEAP-1C as the sole Western powerplant for its 150-passenger C919 airplane. The engine incorporates a unique, industry-first fully integrated propulsion system (IPS). CFM provides the engine as well as the nacelle and thrust reverser developed by Nexcelle*. These elements, including the pylon provided by COMAC, were designed in conjunction with each other, resulting in a total system that provides improved aerodynamics, lower weight, and easier maintenance. The first LEAP-1C engine successfully completed a flight test program in late 2014 on a modified 747 flying testbed at GE facilities in Victorville, California. The first C919 is scheduled to roll out before the end of 2015.