Pratt & Whitney (P&W) has secured a contract from US-based airline JetBlue Airways to provide its Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines to power the carrier’s Airbus A320neo aircraft.

The deal is an updated version of an order placed by JetBlue in 2012 for the purchase and exclusive maintenance of the GTF engines.

As part of the contract, the GTF engine will power JetBlue’s total fleet of 85 Airbus A320neo family aircraft, including 40 awarded in 2012 and 45 new aircraft.

A total of 13 spare PW1100G-JM engines are also included in the deal.

Furthermore, the deal covers P&W’s engine maintenance services under the EngineWise agreement for a period of 15 years.

“By bringing the latest engine technology, these engines will allow us to maximise aircraft performance and efficiency, while lowering cost and our carbon footprint.”

Deliveries of the engines are scheduled to begin next year.

JetBlue operations executive vice-president Jeff Martin said: “This agreement is an investment in the future of our fleet.

“Pratt & Whitney has done an outstanding job developing a next-generation engine for the Airbus A320neo family and has a proven record for service and support.

“By bringing the latest engine technology, these engines will allow us to maximise aircraft performance and efficiency, while lowering cost and our carbon footprint.”

JetBlue further noted that each of its Airbus A320neo aircraft will be powered by two P&W GTF engines, which are designed to produce less noise and lower operating costs compared to other engines.

The GTF engine features an advanced gear system that enables the engine’s fan to operate at a slower speed than the low-pressure compressor and turbine, allowing all components to operate at their optimal speeds.

The combination of the gear system and an advanced core increases fuel efficiency and reduces environmental impact by lowering nitrogen oxide emissions 50% below the regulatory standard.