AFI KLM E&M Expands LEAP Engine Test Capabilities in Paris and Amsterdam

• AFI KLM E&M has commissioned new advanced test cell facilities in Paris and Amsterdam to support LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engine testing for A320neo and 737-8 fleets.
• The state-of-the-art facilities enable full-thrust testing, real-time digital diagnostics, and faster turnaround times, strengthening AFI KLM E&M’s MRO leadership.
• Combined with its PROGNOS^® predictive maintenance platform and a planned LEAP engine leasing joint venture with AerCap, the development enhances global fleet support for next-generation engines.

Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M), a leading global provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) solutions, proudly announces a major advancement in its engine capabilities with the successful finalisation of the industrialisation of the CFM LEAP-1A and 1B engine at its recently Upgraded Test Cell Facilities in Paris and Amsterdam.

These two state-of-the-art facilities are now fully operational to conduct comprehensive performance testing and diagnostics for the latest generation of LEAP-1A engines, supporting the Airbus A320neo family and LEAP-1B engines, supporting the Boeing 737-8. 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. 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 LEAP-1B engines, simulating operational flight conditions. Real-time digital data acquisition systems, ensuring full traceability and OEM compliance. 

“The commissioning and certification of these two new facilities represent a major step forward in our ability to support the world’s leading airlines with combined slot availabilities,” said Jean Louis Forest, Senior Vice President Group Engines at Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance. “As LEAP engines become a backbone of modern narrowbody fleet, 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. 

Supporting Global Fleets as a full Airline MRO integrator

As a trusted integrator in the aviation MRO sector, AFI KLM E&M leverages its extensive expertise and comprehensive suite of services: central to the innovative approach is PROGNOS^®, AFI KLM E&M’s predictive maintenance platform, recognised as unique in the market. Harnessing big data and real-time health monitoring, PROGNOS^® anticipates potential failures, minimises aircraft downtime, and optimises maintenance schedules for both Air France-KLM and its worldwide clients.

Further enhancing operational continuity, AFI KLM E&M and AerCap entered exclusive negotiations to establish a joint venture dedicated to LEAP engine leasing, to the benefit AFKL MRO customers. Announced at the Paris Air Show 2025, this strategic partnership will build a jointly owned pool of LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines, ensuring seamless support for Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737-8.

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.

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