Rolls-Royce eyes return to narrowbody market backed by UK government

Erginbilgic stated: “Given the technology we have, given the credibility we establish in the industry, and the financial strength we have and the engineering capability, we are actually saying we can play in the narrowbody [market]."

Historically focused on widebody engines over the past decade, Rolls-Royce was once active in producing narrowbody engines like those for Boeing 757s and Fokker 100s. It was also involved in developing engines for Airbus A321ceo through a previous partnership but exited that venture in 2011.

In April, Rolls-Royce launched its UltraFan geared turbofan engine demonstrator aimed at re-entering this market segment. Ground testing is slated for 2028, with potential service entry in the early 2030s. Industrial collaborations could play a crucial role in supporting this program.

“We are saying we have the engineering capability," Erginbilgic told The Sunday Times while suggesting that partnerships might be beneficial for achieving their goals. Potential partners include Pratt & Whitney, Mitsubishi, Kawasaki, MTU Aero Engines, and Hyundai.

Rolls-Royce's re-entry would place it against major competitors such as Pratt & Whitney and CFM International—currently dominant players powering most single-aisle aircraft globally. Success would require not only competitive engines but also securing deals with major airframers like Airbus or Boeing.

Airbus has plans for an A320 series successor by mid-2030s focusing on efficiency improvements possibly through innovative technologies like open-fan designs being explored by CFM; however no final decisions regarding engine suppliers have been made yet giving room potentially still available for newcomers including possibly even now once again resurgent brand name such as seen here today via latest initiative coming directly out headquarters situated right back home across pond so-to-speak where original foundations were first laid down long ago when everything began all those many years ago...

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