Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) has taken a significant step in expanding its next-generation engine support capabilities with the arrival of its first LEAP-1B spare engine at its Amsterdam facility. The move is part of a broader agreement to acquire up to 10 CFM International LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B powerplants, reinforcing the MRO provider’s strategy to meet rising global demand for advanced maintenance solutions.
This latest addition enhances AFI KLM E&M’s LEAP Premier MRO portfolio, a program designed to ensure high operational reliability for airlines operating modern, fuel-efficient fleets. With the new spare engine now on site, the company can offer faster turnaround times and minimize aircraft-on-ground (AOG) situations, providing critical support when operators send their primary engines in for scheduled maintenance or repairs.
The spare engine will serve as a vital resource in AFI KLM E&M’s broader engine support ecosystem, which includes quick-turn services, performance restoration, and on-wing assistance. By maintaining a robust pool of available LEAP engines, the MRO specialist aims to reduce downtime for airlines and improve overall fleet availability—a key factor in today’s competitive aviation landscape.
Jean-Louis Forest, Senior Vice President Engines Product at AFI KLM E&M, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment. “Bringing our first spare LEAP-1B engine to Amsterdam is a direct response to our customers’ need for greater flexibility and speed,” he said. “This is more than just an addition to our inventory; it is about strengthening the trust our airline partners place in us. We are ensuring that when an engine enters our shop, the operator’s operations continue uninterrupted. This milestone reflects our long-term commitment to delivering innovative, world-class MRO services.”
The arrival of the spare engine arrives amid growing adoption of LEAP-powered aircraft, including the Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo families. These next-generation jets require specialized maintenance expertise and rapid support infrastructure. As a designated Premier MRO provider for LEAP engines, AFI KLM E&M is expanding its footprint to meet these demands, leveraging its technical expertise and global network to serve airlines more effectively.
With this strategic investment, AFI KLM E&M is not only reinforcing its maintenance capabilities but also positioning itself as a key partner in the long-term success of operators transitioning to more efficient fleets. The new spare engine in Amsterdam represents a tangible commitment to operational excellence and customer-centric innovation in the evolving MRO landscape.
