Air NZ Airbus engine selection to benefit Chch Engine Centre

The Christchurch Engine Centre is set for a period of strong growth after Air New Zealand announced today it has selected the PurePower PW1100G-JM engine to power its 13 new Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft due to join its fleet from 2017.

Air New Zealand Chief Operations Officer Bruce Parton says the move means the Christchurch Engine Centre - a joint venture between Pratt & Whitney and Air New Zealand - will be one of the first facilities in the world with the capability to support the repair and overhaul of the new generation engines.

"The centre has successfully established world class services to overhaul the current V2500 engines on our A320 fleet. Today’s announcement will secure the centre’s long-term future which is wonderful news for staff and for Christchurch," Mr Parton says.

Pratt & Whitney President Aftermarket Matthew Bromberg was in Christchurch for today’s announcement and says it’s news worth celebrating.

"To have Air New Zealand select our world leading new generation engine further builds on the existing engine commitment we have with the airline on its current A320 fleet. The Christchurch Engine Centre also gains the opportunity to develop further capability to support this world leading geared turbine technology engine."

Christchurch Engine Centre General Manager Graham Jack says the commitment to expand the centre’s capabilities to support the new engine is the result of the hard work of its staff.

"Our people have played a key role in earning the engine centre a reputation for excellent customer service and world leading performance. Today’s announcement provides confidence in a long term future and growth prospect for the Christchurch Engine Centre."