CFM LEAP 1-C on the 747-100 flying test bed.
CFM LEAP 1-C on the 747-100 flying test bed. CFM image.

CFM LEAP 1-C engine for Comac C919 achieves first flight

October 9, 2014 Comments Off on CFM LEAP 1-C engine for Comac C919 achieves first flight 391 Views

CFM International’s LEAP engine achieved its first flight taking off on a modified 747-100 flying testbed at GE Aviation flight test operations in Victorville, California.

In a release the company said “the engine behaved well and completed multiple aero-mechnical test points at various altitudes during the nearly three-hour first flight. Over the next several weeks, the engine will complete a comprehensive test schedule that will gauge engine operability, stall margin, performance, and acoustics. The LEAP-1A/-1C variants are on track for engine certification in 2015.”

CFM is making the LEAP 1-A, 1-B, and 1-C for the Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737 MAX, and Comac C919 families respectively.

The company further said [bsu_quote]Although all three LEAP engine variants will fly on the modified test-bed, the configuration currently being tested is a fully integrated propulsion system (IPS). This IPS is an industry first and unique to the LEAP-1C. CFM provides the engine as well as the nacelle and thrust reverser developed by Nexcelle. These elements, including the pylon provided by COMAC, were designed in conjunction with each other, resulting in a total system that provides improved aerodynamics, lower weight, and easier maintenance.[/bsu_quote]

Nexcelle is a joint venture between Aircelle (Safran) and GE Aviation’s Middle River Aircraft Systems (MRAS)

About Devesh Agarwal

A electronics and automotive product management, marketing and branding expert, he was awarded a silver medal at the Lockheed Martin innovation competition 2010. He is ranked 6th on Mashable's list of aviation pros on Twitter and in addition to Bangalore Aviation, he has contributed to leading publications like Aviation Week, Conde Nast Traveller India, The Economic Times, and The Mint (a Wall Street Journal content partner). He remains a frequent flier and shares the good, the bad, and the ugly about the Indian aviation industry without fear or favour.

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