GE case reveals talks with Airbus over engine for new jetliner

Airbus has solicited engine ideas for a narrow-body jetliner in development, drawing a proposal for a new geared design from General Electric. GE’s preliminary proposal, disclosed in a court opinion that has since been sealed, reveals previously unreported talks between the engine maker and Airbus for what the court described as a “next-generation” plane. It was unclear whether the Airbus plane would be a new model or an upgrade to an aircraft already in the company’s catalog, such as the A320neo or A220 single-aisle jets. The court decision also doesn’t say when GE proposed the new engine, when or whether the plane might come to market, or how far along any talks were. The move to seal the court decision indicates the high level of interest in what’s next for Airbus. The Toulouse, France-based company is building an extra-long range version of its A321neo that will allow airlines to offer long-distance routes with smaller, more fuel efficient aircraft. The A320neo family currently offers either LEAP 1A engines from a GE joint venture or Pratt & Whitney’s PW1100G geared turbofan as options. The neo, which stands for new engine option, is itself a more fuel efficient version of the A320. While Airbus is working on developing hydrogen-powered aircraft, aviation watchers have also wondered whether a new conventionally fueled plane might be in the offing. Story has more.<br/>