KLM Selects GE Engines To Power Widebody Aircraft In $250 Million Engine Order

26 June 2002

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has selected GE Aircraft Engines to power 13 new Boeing widebody aircraft. 

As part of a fleet renewal program, KLM ordered GE's GE90-94B engine to power four 777-200ER aircraft. KLM is also leasing six GE-powered 777-200ER aircraft through International Lease Finance Corporation. In addition, KLM ordered GE's CF6-80C2B5F engines to power three Boeing 747-400ER freighters.

Based on the manufacturer's list price, the value of the engine order to GE would be approximately $250 million for the four 777s and three 747s purchased by the airline (the engine order also includes two spare GE90 engines). Including the leased aircraft and the spare engines, KLM will operate 22 GE90-94B engines on the 777 aircraft. 

These are the first 777s and the first 747-400 freighters for the Amsterdam, Netherlands-based carrier. The first 777-200ER will be delivered in late 2003. From March 2003, the 747-400ERF freighters will replace the two 747-300 Freighters.

"We are pleased to be selected to power KLM's new 777 and 747 freighter aircraft," said David Calhoun, president and chief executive officer of GE Aircraft Engines. "The GE90 and CF680C2 engines will provide KLM with unmatched operational flexibility, enabling them to efficiently meet their passenger and shipment demands around the world."

KLM will deploy the 777s on intercontinental routes from Amsterdam and will use the 747-400 freighters for the airline's long-range cargo routes. The replacement program will improve the cost efficiency and competitiveness of the KLM fleet as the new aircraft will have lower unit costs and superior operating characteristics within KLM's network.

GEAE, a division of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is the world's leading manufacturer of jet engines for civil and military aircraft, including engines produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company of Snecma Moteurs of France and GE. GEAE also manufactures gas turbines, derived from its highly successful jet engine programs, for marine and industrial applications. In addition, GEAE provides comprehensive maintenance support, through its GE Engine Services operation, for GE and non-GE jet engines in service throughout the world.