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CFM56 engine: key player in aviation history since its debut

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CFM56 engine: key player in aviation history since its debut
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The CFM International CFM56 engine, also known as the F108 in U.S. military variants, is a high-bypass turbofan engine developed by CFM International, a joint venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace. The engine has been widely used across several aircraft programs, notably the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families.

General Electric was responsible for manufacturing the engine's high-pressure systems, while Safran produced the low-pressure turbine and other components. Additional parts were supplied by Avio of Italy and Honeywell from the United States, with final assembly taking place in Ohio and France.

First running in 1974, the CFM56 struggled to secure orders initially but found success when Delta Air Lines and United Airlines selected it for their Douglas DC-8 aircraft. It entered service in 1982 and became a key powerplant for the Boeing 737 Classic series due to its improvements in fuel efficiency and noise reduction. The engine also gained popularity with Airbus A320 operators amid challenges faced by competing engines like the IAE V2500.

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Over time, more than 32,000 CFM56 engines have been produced. The engine is noted for its reliability, helping airlines reduce maintenance costs. It powers various aircraft models including Airbus A318 through A321, multiple Boeing 737 variants, E-3 Sentry, E-6 Mercury, KC-135 Stratotanker, and Douglas DC-8.

By 2016, over 30,000 units had been delivered with production continuing until 2020 due to high demand. According to estimates from CFM International, some engines exceed an average of 30,000 hours on wing before requiring overhaul.

Despite winding down production by 2019 for commercial aircraft like Boeing 737NGs and Airbus A320ceos, limited production continues for military applications until its expected conclusion in 2024.

The CFM56's success is attributed to its timing and specifications that matched well with popular aircraft models such as the Boeing 737 Next Generation family and Airbus A320ceo family. Its versatility allowed eight different variants to enter the market over time.

Organizations Included in this History
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