German engine specialist MTU's overhaul shop in the Chinese city of Zhuhai has started servicing CFM International Leap powerplants.
The MRO facility – jointly owned with China Southern Airlines – introduced today its first Leap-1B engine for a quick-turn procedure, MTU says.
Leap-1A and -1B engines – the former is an option on Airbus's A320neo family, while the latter is the sole powerplant available on Boeing 737 Max jets – will be serviced, repaired and overhauled at the site near Hong Kong.
MTU notes that the capability was established after China Southern signed a general support license agreement with CFM.
The Munich-based company's chief programme officer, Michael Schreyogg, states that MTU is "delighted" to include the Leap series in its MRO programme.
MTU Maintenance Zhuhai specialises in the support of CFM56 powerplants and International Aero Engines V2500s.
The facility is being expanded to increase capacity 50% to 450 shop visits by 2021.
Cirium's fleet data shows that China Southern's operation includes 737NGs, 737 Max 8s, and A320-family jets.
The latter fleet comprises both CFM56- and V2500-powered A320ceos, and Leap- and Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-powered Neos.
MTU is a shareholder in the V2500 and PW1000G programmes.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
