Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has selected CFM International LEAP-1A engines to power 35 additional A320neo family aircraft. The order, which includes eight spare engines and a Rate Per Flight Hour (RPFH) support agreement, is valued at $2.9 billion at list price. The aircraft order had been announced in April 2018.
Throughout the term of the agreement, CFM will guarantee maintenance costs for the airlines 160 LEAP-1A engines on a dollar per engine flight hour basis.
SAS currently operates 44 A320neo aircraft and one A321neo LR powered by the fuel-efficient LEAP engine and plans to introduce two additional A321neo LR as part of its strategy to develop International routes, including to the US.
“This order is part of the airline's fleet upgrade program that aims to improve efficiency and sustainability performance,” said Magnus Örnberg, Executive Vice President and CFO, SAS. “As a major European airline, SAS has been at the forefront of introducing technologies that reduce the impact of aviation on the environment, as well as choosing efficient engines to power its fleet. In October 2020, the delivery flight for SAS’ first LEAP-powered Airbus A321LR used a 10 percent sustainable jet fuel blend. The initiative is part of SAS’ commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.”