Pratt & Whitney has introduced a new upgrade for its PW1100G geared turbofan engines, known as the "Hot Section Plus." This enhancement is aimed at improving the durability of in-service powerplants to nearly match that of the newly certified GTF Advantage update. The upgrade involves maintenance visits and includes 35 new components that promise to deliver 90-95% of the benefits associated with the GTF Advantage.
Nick Tomassetti, Pratt & Whitney's vice president of sales and marketing, commented on the upgrade: "[The kit] brings the durability improvements of the GTF Advantage hot section to today’s GTF engines. Customers operating the current GTF engine model will have the opportunity to nearly double time-on-wing."
The GTF Advantage, which was certified by both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) earlier this year, is set for delivery in 2025 and aims to be operational by 2026. The update is designed to enhance thrust and durability while improving fuel economy. According to previous reports by Simple Flying's Channing Reid, the GTF-A boasts lower carbon emissions, up to 1% better fuel economy, and an increase in takeoff thrust by up to 8%.