AFI KLM E&M has received authorisation from the CAAC to carry out maintenance operations on LEAP engines (-1A / -1B).
The company said the announcement marks a “decisive new milestone” in its industrialisation and marketing of dedicated maintenance solutions for the new-generation engines that power the A320neo and the Boeing 737 MAX.
Issued by the Chinese authority at the end of October, this authorisation enables AFI KLM E&M to carry out all types of operations (both on-wing and on-site) for LEAP-1A/-1B engines, parts and control units, for all customers in China – including both airlines and MROs.
Having obtained the same authorisation from the EASA and FAA in 2018, the airline-MRO is extending the scope of its LEAP support services, which are now within reach for customers on both sides of the globe.
The CAAC approval comes at a time when AFI KLM E&M has already acquired solid experience with these types of engines – experience which can now be shared with its customers throughout China’s dynamic and expanding market.
As Anne Brachet, executive vice president Air France-KLM Engineering & Maintenance, said: “AFI KLM E&M has many customers and partners in China. With CAAC approval for LEAP engine maintenance, we’ll be able to broaden the range of products and services we can offer them.
“Our Group has already deployed its LEAP capabilities under EASA and FAA approval in order to support the engine’s initial operations around the world, and we’re excited to put this experience to work for the key players in the Chinese market.”
