Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M), announced a major advancement in its engine capabilities with successful finalising the industrialisation of the CFM LEAP-1A engine at its recently Upgraded Test Cell Facilities in Paris and Amsterdam.
These state-of-the-art facilities are now fully operational to conduct comprehensive performance testing and diagnostics for the latest generation of LEAP engines, supporting the Airbus A320neo family. The finalizing of the industrialization of the CFM LEAP-1B is expected later this summer.
The achievement marks a strategic milestone in AFI KLM E&M’s long-term investment in advanced MRO infrastructure and underscores its leadership in servicing new-generation engine platforms.
A New Benchmark in Engine Testing
The Advanced Test Cell Facilities are equipped with the latest testing technologies and engineered to accommodate high-bypass, high-thrust engines under real-world operating conditions. Designed in full alignment with CFM OEM standards, the facility enables AFI KLM E&M to provide precise engine diagnostics, performance validation, and post-maintenance certification under controlled conditions, immediately prior to final release to service.
The key capabilities include full-thrust testing for LEAP-1A and later this summer LEAP-1B engines, simulating operational flight conditions. Real-time digital data acquisition systems, ensuring full traceability and OEM compliance. Also advanced noise and vibration analysis for comprehensive performance monitoring and integrated automation and safety systems, enabling efficient and reliable engine runs.
“The commissioning and certification of these new facilities represent a major step forward in our ability to support the world’s leading airlines with the highest standard of engine MRO,” said Jean Louis Forest, Senior Vice President Group Engines at Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance.“As LEAP engines become the backbone of modern narrowbody fleets, this test cell gives us a strategic advantage in ensuring quick turnarounds and uncompromising reliability for our customers.”
Designed for Operators, Built for the Future
For airline operators, the implications are clear: the new facilities enable faster turnaround times, reduced logistical complexity, and enhanced visibility into engine performance after shop visits. With in-house correlation now complete, AFI KLM E&M can manage the full engine maintenance cycle internally, eliminating the need for external test arrangements and allowing operators to return engines to service with maximum confidence and efficiency.
This milestone is particularly significant for operators seeking flexible and scalable MRO partnerships that can keep pace with the increasing demands of new-generation aircraft.
Supporting Global Fleets with Confidence
The certification of the LEAP-1A and 1B engines will position AFI KLM E&M as one of the few independent MRO providers worldwide with fully integrated test cell capabilities for the industry’s most in-demand narrowbody engines. The facility will support both AFI KLM E&M’s in-house fleet and third-party customers under long-term service agreements, power-by-the-hour programs, and tailored maintenance solutions.
This development also strengthens AFI KLM E&M’s global offering for LEAP operators, combining in-depth technical know-how, digital monitoring tools, and a global support network to deliver end-to-end, performance-driven engine support.
