MTU Maintenance Zhuhai has received CAAC approval, marking the final step in the introduction of the PW1100G-JM engine to that facility on Zhuhai, November 9, 2022. EASA and FAA certification had already been issued for this engine type. Necessary special procedures such as grinding and balancing were also introduced. This means that Zhuhai is now the third facility in the MTU network that is able to perform disassembly, assembly, and test of PW1100G-JM engines. This expansion of the MRO portfolio is an excellent basis for the site’s further growth and success.

“We’re really proud to be the first shop that provides PW1100G-JM MRO services in China, so we can play an important  role in increasing worldwide MRO capacity for this engine type. We can now serve the market even better as an OEM partner while also forging ahead with our own growth strategy,” explains Gert Wagner, President & CEO of MTU Maintenance Zhuhai. “As a reliable partner within the OEM network, we are looking forward to performing high-quality services for this engine type.”

The capacity ramp-up is already in full swing. The first milestone, the delivery of the tenth engine of this type, has already been achieved. At the same time, the location has managed to significantly reduce turn-around times.

“Expanding our MRO portfolio to include the PW1100G-JM has given us access to a significant forward-looking program and innovative MRO processes. This further strengthens our technological know-how and will allow us to continue to set standards for more efficient and innovative maintenance into the future,” adds Michael Vos, Senior Manager System Engineering, who was in charge of the Geared Turbofan (GTF) ramp-up at MTU Maintenance Zhuhai.

One particular challenge in introducing the PW1100G-JM engine at the Zhuhai location, which began in January 2020, was that all of the approval processes had to take place remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic and its associated travel restrictions. Many other processes within the project were also supported remotely, including the set-up of the FOS (fixed overhaul system), which is used for disassembly and assembly of the engine. Even with all these factors in play, the process went smoothly thanks to the efficient transfer of existing expertise and the outstanding cooperation between the various MTU locations and within the GTF network.

MTU Maintenance Zhuhai, a joint venture between MTU Aero Engines and China Southern Airlines Ltd., has been reliably working on V2500 and CFM56 engines for nearly 20 years now and also added LEAP engines to its portfolio in 2019. The site is located in the Zhuhai Free Trade Zone, where it benefits from its proximity to Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Macao. In addition to China Southern, MTU Maintenance Zhuhai serves over 90 customers from China, elsewhere in Asia, and all over the world, including International Aero Engines, Saudia Airlines, and All Nippon Airways along with Chinese carriers Sichuan Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, and Hainan Airlines. 

MTU Maintenance Zhuhai is currently constructing an additional facility in the neighboring Jinwan District. This location will focus on PW1100G-JM engines and feature a test cell with 60,000 pounds of thrust. The shop is expected to begin operating in 2025. At full capacity, about 600 trained employees will work there and it will be able to perform260 shop visits per year. 

In addition to MTU Maintenance Zhuhai, the PW1100G-JM program is also served by MTU Maintenance Hannover and EME Aero in Poland.