What's Happening?
RTX, the parent company of Pratt & Whitney (P&W), has announced a 15% reduction in the number of jets grounded due to issues with PW1100G turbofans in the first quarter. This improvement is attributed to increased maintenance capacity and the ramped production
of critical engine components. The recall of these geared turbofans (GTFs) was initiated due to production errors involving powder metal, which potentially left engines with defective parts. As a result, hundreds of commercial aircraft have been grounded, awaiting inspections and part replacements. Despite the progress, RTX has not specified the exact number of aircraft still grounded. Data from fleet-data provider Cirium indicates that approximately 770 GTF-powered jets were in storage at the end of 2025, with many likely grounded due to engine issues.
Why It's Important?
The reduction in grounded jets is significant for the aviation industry, as it alleviates some of the operational disruptions caused by the recall. Airlines relying on GTF-powered jets, such as those in the Airbus A320neo family, can expect improved fleet availability, potentially leading to better service reliability and financial performance. For RTX and P&W, the progress in addressing the recall issues is crucial for maintaining customer trust and market position. The increased production of engine components not only supports the recall recovery but also aids in meeting the demand for new engines, which is vital for manufacturers like Airbus. The ongoing improvements in maintenance and production capacity are expected to continue reducing the number of grounded aircraft, benefiting both the aviation industry and passengers.
What's Next?
RTX plans to continue its efforts to reduce the number of grounded jets by further increasing maintenance output and component production. The company expects the downward trend in grounded aircraft to persist, supported by a 23% year-over-year increase in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) output for PW1100Gs. As the recall recovery progresses, RTX anticipates a mid-single-digit percentage increase in P&W's sales for 2026, along with a projected operating profit. The aviation industry will be closely monitoring these developments, as they have significant implications for airline operations and the broader market.
