United Airlines Orders 300 GEnx Engines for Boeing 787 Fleet

United Airlines (UAL) has placed a significant order for 300 General Electric (GE) Next-generation (GEnx) engines to power its incoming fleet of Boeing 787 (B787) Dreamliner aircraft. The deal, announced by GE Aerospace, also includes an unspecified number of spare engines and will make United the world's largest operator of the GEnx engine type.

Operational Impact and Fleet Strategy

This engine selection is a critical component of United's broader 'United Next' fleet modernization plan, which focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and reducing fuel burn. By selecting a common engine type for its expanding 787 fleet, the airline aims to streamline maintenance procedures, optimize spare parts inventory, and improve overall fleet reliability. According to GE Aerospace data, the GEnx engine has a dispatch reliability rate of 99.98% and has accumulated over 70 million flight hours since entering service.

GEnx Engine Profile

The GEnx is GE Aerospace's fastest-selling high-thrust engine, with nearly 4,400 units in service or on backlog. It powers approximately two-thirds of all Boeing 787 aircraft currently in operation. The engine is recognized for its technological advancements, including composite fan blades and a composite fan case, which contribute to weight reduction. According to manufacturer data, the GEnx offers up to 15% improved fuel efficiency compared to the older GE CF6 engine it replaces, a key factor for airlines focused on managing operational costs and environmental impact.

Market Context

The order reinforces the industry trend of airlines investing in new-generation wide-body aircraft for long-haul international routes. United Airlines currently holds the largest recorded order book for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, having placed orders for over 150 of the composite-built aircraft since 2021. This latest engine deal will eventually expand United's GEnx-powered B787 fleet to more than 200 aircraft, supporting its global network expansion. For more details on the agreement, see the official announcement from GE Aerospace.

Key Takeaways

• Orders 300 GE Aerospace GEnx engines plus spares for its Boeing 787 fleet.
• Becomes the world's largest operator of GEnx engines.
• Expands its GEnx-powered Boeing 787 fleet to over 200 aircraft.
• Leverages the GEnx engine's 99.98% dispatch reliability and 15% fuel efficiency gain.

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