Following on from its approval by the EASA and FAA, Air France-KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) has now received authorisation from the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) to conduct maintenance operations on LEAP-1A and -1B engines.

Gaining approval

Approval for both narrowbody engines was granted by the Chinese authority in late October. Following the certification, this authorisation enables AFI KLM E&M to carry out both on-wing and onsite MRO services on the engines as shop activities.

During the Dubai Airshow, AFI KLM E&M formally announced it had received authorisation from the CAAC to carry out maintenance operations on LEAP engines (-1A / -1B).

The announcement marks a decisive new milestone in the industrialisation and marketing of dedicated maintenance solutions for the new-generation engines that power the A320neo and the Boeing 737MAX.

AFI KLM E&M, executive vice-president Anne Brachet, said that getting the green light from China’s aviation regulator will help broaden the kind of products and services the company can offer.

LEAP support services with global reach

Having obtained the same authorisation from the EASA and FAA in 2018, the airline is extending the scope of its LEAP support services, which are now within reach for customers on both sides of the globe. This includes all types of operations for LEAP-1A/-1B engines, parts and control units, for all customers in China – including both airlines and MROs.

The CAAC approval comes at a time when AFI KLM E&M has already acquired solid experience with these types of engines and such experience which can now be shared with its customers throughout China’s dynamic and expanding market.

An outstanding company

Air France-KLM E&M is no stranger to winning awards. In a ceremony held during the MRO Asia-Pacific event in Singapore, it won the MRO of the year award for its achievements and contributions to the MRO industry.

“We are honoured and proud to receive this award. In a marketplace that remains fiercely competitive, AFI KLM E&M has continued to develop and consolidate its industrial capabilities and the range of services we offer, in order to provide competitive and robust responses to the needs of airlines who seek our help to improve their operational performance levels,” noted Brachet.