Virgin America Airbus A320-214 N629VA (msn 3037) MIA (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.

Virgin America (San Francisco) has announces it has selected CFM International’s advanced LEAP™ engine to power its 30 new Airbus A320neo aircraft scheduled to begin delivery in 2016. In addition, the airline has selected the CFM56-5B engine to power 30 of its current technology A320s on order. The engine orders have a combined value of $1.4 billion at list price. In January, the airline announced it would nearly triple its fleet size with an order for 60 new Airbus A320 Family aircraft – including the first commercial order for the new eco-efficient Airbus A320neo. Together, the A320neo and the LEAP™ engine promise to deliver one of the world’s most fuel-efficient commercial aircraft, with more than 15 percent improved fuel efficiency, corresponding improvements in carbon efficiency and double digit reductions in NOx emissions.

Virgin America’s current A320 Family fleet is powered by the CFM56 engine and is up to 25 percent more fuel efficient than other domestic fleets and one of the most carbon-efficient in the U.S. on an RPM basis. The LEAP™ engine and the A320neo with the new wing tip “Sharklets” will yield even greater efficiencies. Compared to aircraft powered by today’s best engines, the A320neo with the LEAP™ engine will provide more than 15 percent improved fuel efficiency and equivalent reductions in CO2 emissions, double digit reductions in NOx emissions, reduced engine noise and lower operating costs. Based on Virgin America’s use and operation of the aircraft, it is estimated that the LEAP™ advances will offer Virgin America an annual fuel savings of $1.9 million per aircraft at current fuel prices. With the LEAP™ engine, the A320neo aircraft will also offer increased performance range and emit 3,600 fewer tons of CO2 per aircraft on an annual basis.

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Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on the photo for additional information.