Engine Alliance, a 50/50 joint venture by Pratt & Whitney and GE has delivered its first G7200 propulsor to Emirates.

Instead of shipping a full engine, shipping a propulsor is a more cost-effective way of supplying spare engines. A full spare engine can be constructed using a new propulsor and reusing a fan module that usually has a long lifespan.

The GP7200 for the A380 aircraft evolves from a combination of two previous products – the GE90 and the PW4000.

The engine with a certified thrust of 76,500lb can produce over 81,500lb of thrust.

The engine has also been ordered by Air France, Korean Airlines and the International Lease Finance Company (ILFC).

Air France will receive its propulsor in October 2009.

While the core of the engine is assembled by GE, Pratt & Whitney manufactures the fan module, low-pressure compressor and turbine and undertakes the final engine assembly.