Air NZ, P&W to expand PW1100G MRO capacity at Christchurch

Air New Zealand and Pratt & Whitney have broken ground on an extension to their joint Christchurch Engine Centre, with an aim to boost MRO capacity for PW1100G engines. The new 14,000sq m (151,000sq ft) extension will be able to handle 140 overhauls annually by 2032, say the two companies in a joint statement. Construction will be completed in Q4 2026. The location has been in service since 1948. In 2001 Air NZ and P&W formed a joint venture for the MRO of JT8D engines, which were followed by IAE International V2500s, of which 1,500 have been overhauled. “The Christchurch Engine Centre has a proven track record of delivering exceptional performance and quality with a highly capable workforce,” says Shane Eddy, president, Pratt & Whitney. With the Asia-Pacific region projected to experience the highest aviation growth globally over the next 20 years, it is a strategic imperative for us to invest here and partner with Air New Zealand as we continue to expand the [geared turbofan] MRO network in support of the growing fleet.” The PW1100G powers Air NZ’s A320neo family aircraft, but the engine has proved troublesome for the carrier.<br/>