Airbus is in talks with American manufacturer General Electric to provide engines for the A330neo, according to a report by Bloomberg.
The potential change would be a blow to Rolls-Royce, which is currently the sole engine provider for the European planemaker’s new-generation wide-body aircraft.
However, Airbus played down the reports, saying it is always in talks with other engine manufacturers about new technologies.
According to unnamed sources who spoke to Bloomberg news agency, a GE turbine could offer more fuel savings and lower operating costs.
That same source added that negotiations between the two companies are preliminary and no final decision has been made yet.
If it happens, GE’s GEnx engine is considered as an option. This engine also powers Boeing’s Dreamliners.
The development of commercial jet engines costs billions and manufacturers target to broaden the use of their turbines across multiple aircraft types.
Airbus responded that it is currently happy with the performance of A330’s Rolls-Royce Trent engines.
Additional reporting by airlinerwatch.com
