Jet Set Go: Indian Narrowbodies Push Engines—and Limits—to New Heights

India’s aviation sector is soaring into 2025 with its narrowbody fleet at the heart of a high-stakes transformation. As airlines race to meet surging demand, engine utilization trends are revealing both the resilience and the hurdles facing Indian carriers.

 

Fleet Expansion and Modernization:

Indian airlines have placed record-breaking orders, with Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air collectively accounting for nearly 30% of all global narrowbody and widebody aircraft orders in 2023. Air India alone is retrofitting its A320neo fleet under a $400 million program, upgrading cabins and passenger amenities to compete globally.

 

Engine Utilization Dynamics:

CFM International engines remain the workhorses of Indian narrowbodies, powering the majority of flights. The legacy CFM56 leads in utilization, while the newer LEAP engines are gaining ground as more A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft enter service.

 

Pratt & Whitney GTF Challenges:

The Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan (GTF) engines, powering many A320neo jets, faced significant durability issues, peaking in 2024 with up to 67% of affected aircraft grounded for maintenance. Recent fixes have improved the situation, with ground days dropping to 63%, and further improvements expected as repairs continue.

 

Supply Chain and Delivery Pressures:

Despite robust growth, airlines face delays due to global supply chain disruptions and ongoing engine reliability concerns. However, Indian carriers are pushing ahead, with a growing in-service fleet and rising utilization rates since 2022.

 

Tech-Driven Maintenance:

Engine makers like GE Aerospace and CFM are leveraging AI and machine learning for predictive maintenance, aiming to boost reliability and minimize downtime for Indian operators.

 

As India’s skies get busier, the focus on engine performance and innovation will be crucial in sustaining the country’s aviation boom.

 

Sources: Aviation Week, Economic Times, CNBC TV18