IndiGo has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CFM International for the supply of more than 1,000 LEAP-1A aircraft engines to power 510 Airbus A320neo family aircraft. The agreement marks the largest single order ever placed for LEAP engines and represents a record order for CFM International, further strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two companies.
The engines will power future deliveries of IndiGo’s expanding Airbus A320neo and A321neo fleet as the airline continues its domestic and international expansion. The agreement also includes long-term maintenance and support services, as well as technical assistance for IndiGo’s upcoming engine Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility.
As part of the partnership, CFM will support the establishment of IndiGo’s new engine MRO centre and provide long-term material services, including spare parts supply. The objective is to ensure high aircraft availability, predictable maintenance costs and reliable operational support as the airline continues to grow its fleet.
IndiGo said the agreement aligns with its long-term strategy of becoming a global airline while maintaining operational efficiency, fleet reliability and sustainability. The airline currently operates more than 430 aircraft and continues to expand rapidly across domestic and international markets.
Willie Walsh, Chief Executive Officer Designate of IndiGo, said the airline is pleased to strengthen its partnership with CFM as it enters the next phase of growth. He noted that CFM has been a trusted partner since 2016 and currently supports a fleet of more than 375 Airbus A320 and A321 family aircraft. According to him, the LEAP engine’s proven reliability, fuel efficiency and operational performance make it the right choice for supporting IndiGo’s expanding network and long-term sustainability goals.
The relationship between the two companies dates back a decade. IndiGo initially operated Airbus A320ceo aircraft powered by CFM56-5B engines before selecting LEAP-1A engines in 2019 for its Airbus A320neo family fleet. The latest agreement further extends that partnership as the airline prepares for one of the largest fleet expansion programmes in the aviation industry.
H Lawrence Culp Jr, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GE Aerospace, said IndiGo has relied on CFM technology for ten years and the company is proud to continue supporting the airline’s growth. He added that LEAP engines have demonstrated excellent fuel efficiency, durability and reliability, particularly in demanding operating environments. He also highlighted GE Aerospace’s long-standing presence in India through manufacturing facilities in Pune, engineering operations in Bengaluru and an extensive supplier network.
Olivier Andriès, Chief Executive Officer of Safran, described the agreement as a historic milestone reflecting the confidence airlines place in LEAP engine technology. He said India remains a strategic market for Safran, which continues to invest in engine manufacturing and maintenance capabilities across the country to support the rapid growth of the aviation sector.Last year, Safran inaugurated its largest LEAP engine MRO facility, spanning 45,000 square metres. Once fully operational, the centre will handle up to 300 LEAP engine shop visits annually and feature a next-generation engine test facility.
With more than 10,000 LEAP engines delivered globally, CFM International continues to expand its presence in commercial aviation through advanced engine technology, continuous product improvements and a global maintenance network. The latest agreement further strengthens IndiGo’s fleet expansion plans while supporting the development of India’s aviation maintenance and aerospace ecosystem.
