Pratt & Whitney head says jet engine output risks easing

Pratt & Whitney's new chief says the performance of suppliers is much better than year ago, easing concerns over its ability to execute a US$10b gamble on a new engine as it seeks to reclaim a once revered status in the jet industry. But the industry veteran said he knew how to find out whether the company's make-or-break production goals for the latest short-haul airplane engine are under strain. "I will get every engine serial number and will see the parts that are committed and if it supports the engine shipment date," Robert Leduc said. Leduc also played down concerns over aircraft demand, saying the company had seen no deferrals or cancellations. Developed at a cost of $10b, the Geared Turbofan engines claim to burn 15% less fuel and have already influenced the way some future jet engines are designed. <br/>