LEAP-1C

CFM International has completed the maiden flight of its leading-edge aviation propulsion (LEAP) engine on-board a modified 747 flying testbed.

Carried out at GE Aviation Flight Test Operations facility in Victorville, California, the flight marks the next phase of testing for the engine programme.

During the three-hour flight, the engine completed multiple aeromechanical test points at various altitudes, the company said.

CFM International chief test pilot Steven Crane said: "The durability and reliability one expects from a CFM product is clearly there.

"The flight test data also showed the benefits this engine has gained from leveraging GEnx core technology."

The engine will now undergo a series of comprehensive tests that will evaluate its operability, stall margin, performance, and acoustics.

In addition to 28 ground and CFM flight test engines, the ground and flight test certification programme comprises 32 flight test engines for Airbus, Boeing, and Comac across three LEAP engine variants.

"The flight test data also showed the benefits this engine has gained from leveraging GEnx core technology."

The configuration currently being tested is an integrated propulsion system, which is said to be the first-of-its-kind.

CFM said that it is on-track to obtain certification for the LEAP-1A / 1C variants in 2015.

The LEAP engine incorporates Nexcelle-developed nacelle and thrust reverser and a pylon provided by Comac, which together offer improved aerodynamics and lower weight, and enable easier maintenance.

Earlier this week, Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance has been selected by to conduct engine development tests on LEAP.

CFM International is a 50-50 joint venture of GE Aviation and Snecma.

Image: CFM’s LEAP engine takes off on a modified 747 flying testbed. Photo: courtesy of CFM International.

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