CFM starts ground-testing of LEAP-1B engine

The first LEAP-1B on the test stand. (CFM)

CFM International has announced it has started ground testing of the first LEP-1B engine for the re-engined Boeing 737MAX program.

Nominated as the exclusive engine for the MAX family, the LEAP-1B was fired for the first time on June 13 and after a few run-ins, has achieved maximum thrust.

“We are really excited to have this engine on test. Now that we are running at full power, we can really see what it is capable of,” executive vice president for CFM, Cédric Goubet said in a statement. “All of the testing we have done to date has validated the technology choices we made and we look forward to the LEAP-1B expanding our knowledge base. Our team has done a fantastic job of keeping this program on schedule and, with each day, our confidence growths. The LEAP engine will deliver everything we have promised and more.”

The LEAP engine will also be offered as an option on the A320NEO Family and on China’s Comac C-919. Boeing says the LEAP-1B will be 14 per cent more fuel efficient than the CFM-56 currently operated on the 737NG series.