Icelandair has opted for Pratt & Whitney (P&W) GTF engines to propel up to 35 new Airbus A320neo-family aircraft, encompassing both leased and purchased A321XLR and A321LR models. This marks Icelandair’s inaugural collaboration with Pratt & Whitney as a GTF customer. The airline has also committed to an EngineWise® agreement for the comprehensive maintenance, repair and overhaul of its GTF engines. Pratt & Whitney is set to provide support, ensuring a seamless transition into service and sustained operational efficiency of the engines.
“With these GTF-powered A321XLR and A321LR aircraft, Icelandair and Pratt & Whitney are rekindling a relationship that began over 80 years ago,” stated Rick Deurloo, President of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. “These engines and aircraft are exceptionally well-suited to enhance Icelandair’s expanding transatlantic network, delivering unparalleled fuel efficiency and minimizing CO2 emissions.”
Founded in 1937, Icelandair’s route network strategically positions Iceland as a midpoint between North America and Europe, connecting various destinations across the Atlantic. The airline initially operated Pratt & Whitney Wasp engines in the 1940s, transitioning to turbojet- and turbofan-powered aircraft, including the Boeing 727 and Douglas DC-8 in the 1960s, followed by the 767-300ER. Currently, Icelandair operates DHC Dash 8 aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW100 and PW150 engines.
