Ryanair has announced a significant expansion of its partnership with CFM International through a new agreement to purchase 30 LEAP-1B spare engines. This deal aims to support the airline’s growing Boeing 737 MAX fleet and enhance operational reliability across its European network.
The LEAP-1B engines, developed by CFM International—a joint venture between Safran and GE Aerospace—are integral to the Boeing 737 MAX. They deliver up to 20% reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions per seat compared to previous engine models, bolstering Ryanair’s cost efficiency and competitive advantage in Europe.
Michael O’Leary, Ryanair’s CEO, described the agreement as “a significant commitment to improve the operational resilience of our Group airlines,” reaffirming the carrier’s focus on investing in cutting-edge, efficient technology.
A longstanding CFM customer since 1998, Ryanair operates the largest fleet of CFM-powered Boeing aircraft in Europe, including 181 LEAP-powered jets currently in service and 29 more on order. The airline also placed a major order in 2023 for LEAP-1B engines powering 150 firm and 150 optional Boeing 737-10 aircraft, further deepening the partnership.
Gaël Méheust, president and CEO of CFM International, called the new purchase “another milestone” in their enduring collaboration.
Since their introduction, LEAP-1B engines have logged nearly 30 million flight hours and 12 million cycles, delivering 15% better fuel efficiency and significantly reduced noise compared to the older CFM56 engines, marking them as a key enabler of more sustainable aviation.