Air New Zealand & Pratt & Whitney: Expanding Christchurch Engine Center

In an exciting development for aviation, Air New Zealand and Pratt & Whitney are expanding their Christchurch Engine Center in New Zealand, enhancing its capabilities to overhaul advanced geared turbofan (GTF) engines. This expansion will serve as a critical investment in the Asia-Pacific region, which is expected to lead global aviation growth over the next 20 years.

Key Expansion Details

• Size & Investment: The Christchurch Engine Center will be expanded by 14,000 square meters (approximately 150,695 square feet) at an estimated cost of $150 million.

• Timeline: Construction kicks off this month, and the first GTF engine overhauls are anticipated to begin by Q4 2026.

• Capacity: By 2032, the expanded facility aims to handle up to 140 GTF engine overhauls per year, adding significant capacity to support growing regional demand.

The Christchurch Engine Center has been a cornerstone of aviation maintenance since its establishment in 1948. The joint venture between Air New Zealand and Pratt & Whitney, formalized in 2001, currently focuses on V2500 engines, serving both New Zealand and international customers. The center employs about 400 skilled professionals who are recognized for their exceptional quality and performance.

Supporting Asia-Pacific’s Aviation Boom

With aviation demand in the Asia-Pacific region poised for substantial growth, this expansion aligns with Pratt & Whitney’s strategy to extend its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) network. According to Shane Eddy, President of Pratt & Whitney, “It is a strategic imperative for us to invest here and partner with Air New Zealand as we continue to expand the GTF MRO network in support of the growing fleet.”

Meeting the Needs of Air New Zealand’s Fleet

Air New Zealand operates 18 Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney’s PW1100G GTF engines, three of which are currently inactive. The carrier’s Airbus A320ceo aircraft are powered by V2500 engines, which are already serviced at the Christchurch center. This expansion will allow Air New Zealand to conduct GTF engine overhauls locally, increasing operational efficiency and supporting its long-term fleet management.