GKN Aerospace has strengthened its long-term partnership with engine-maker Safran, after signing a decade-long agreement to expand its support for the LEAP engines.  The contract covers new shafts and spare part production for the Leap 1A variant for the Airbus A320neo aircraft, with the expectation to produce similar components for the LEAP 1B for the Boeing 737-MAX aircraft in the future.                                                                    

Through this contract GKN will support Safran with its significant future demand and will start up new Shaft production at GKN Aerospace’s global center of excellence in Kongsberg, Norway. The first shafts are expected to be delivered from GKN Norway to Paris in the second half of 2024. 

GKN Aerospace and Safran have worked together closely for more than 35 years, with long-term partnerships in place for the industry-leading CFM56 and GE90 engines, as well as on the next-generation RISE technology development program.

Alexander Andersson, Senior Vice President of GKN Aerospace’s Engines business, said: “This is a significant agreement and another important milestone in our partnership with Safran.  The LEAP is at the forefront of the industry and we are proud to increase our presence on the engine today, while continuing to explore new technology development for the next-generation RISE engine.”

Dominique Dupuy, Senior Vice President, Purchasing for Safran Aircraft Engines, said: “We are satisfied with our partnership with GKN, which began several decades ago and continues with the manufacture of rotating parts for the LEAP programs.”

More than 5,000 LEAP engines are currently in service, with a backlog of 10,000 more engines on order.  With more than 30 million flight hours to date, the LEAP engine has achieved the fastest order and flight hour ramp up in commercial aviation history.

GKN Aerospace is a global multi-technology leader in the aerospace industry, specialising in the development and delivery of cutting-edge aerostructures and engine systems. Our unrivaled products, systems, and services are integral to 90% of today’s commercial and defence aircraft ranging from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes and advanced air mobility vehicles to state-of-the-art fighter aircraft.

Our commitment to innovation and cutting edge technology is evident in the application of lightweight composites, additive fabrication, electrical wiring interconnection systems, and groundbreaking engine systems, reducing both weight and cost in today’s aircraft and engines. GKN Aerospace is at the forefront of sustainable technology, developing breakthrough solutions to achieve emission-free flight. Our global technology centres collaborate with industry partners around the world to accelerate the development of pioneering technologies, including hydrogen-powered propulsion and all-electric flight.

Operating in 12 countries, GKN Aerospace employs a workforce of 16,000 employees across 33 locations. GKN Aerospace has global sales of £3.4bn and is listed under its parent company name Melrose PLC (LSE:MRO).