Jet engine manufacturer CFM International has announced plans to invest $2 billion over the next five years to expand its maintenance and repair capacity as the aviation industry struggles with a growing backlog of engine servicing.
The investment is aimed at reducing repair times and increasing maintenance capacity for CFM’s widely used LEAP and CFM56 engines, which power thousands of commercial aircraft operated by airlines around the world. The announcement comes ahead of the Farnborough International Airshow, where aerospace manufacturers are expected to unveil new technologies and compete for major aircraft orders.
CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace of the United States and France’s Safran Aircraft Engines, said the funding will be used to expand maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities, invest in advanced repair technologies and strengthen its global supply chain to address persistent bottlenecks affecting airlines.
The aviation sector has faced prolonged maintenance delays in recent years due to supply chain disruptions, shortages of spare parts and increasing demand for aircraft engines as global air travel continues to recover. Many airlines have been forced to keep aircraft on the ground while waiting for engine repairs, affecting flight schedules and operational costs.
CFM said the investment is expected to significantly improve turnaround times for engine servicing while supporting airlines’ efforts to return more aircraft to service. The company also noted that demand for maintenance is expected to remain strong over the coming years as airlines continue operating older aircraft amid delays in new aircraft deliveries.
Industry analysts say the investment reflects growing pressure on engine manufacturers to expand after-sales support as airlines seek faster maintenance services to meet rising passenger demand. The announcement also comes as manufacturers compete for new business at the Farnborough Airshow, one of the aviation industry’s biggest global events.
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