MONTREAL, January 16, 2020 – Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX), along with Airbus and Air Canada celebrated the entry into service of Air Canada’s first A220 aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines. The event was commemorated with a ceremony at Air Canada’s headquarters in Montreal with Air Canada, Airbus, Pratt & Whitney and government representatives in attendance. This entry into service marks a significant milestone for Air Canada as it becomes the first Canada-based A220 operator. Final assembly of Pratt & Whitney’s PW1500G engines, which power the A220 aircraft, is completed in Canada.
Air Canada, founded in 1937, has on order 45 GTF-powered A220 aircraft. The airline currently operates 12 767 aircraft powered by the Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engine.
“Today is a special day, and one that adds to the rich history between Pratt & Whitney and Air Canada. The entry into service of the airline’s first A220 aircraft represents an opportunity to expand route networks and the ability to offer passengers a quieter and more comfortable flight experience,” said Rick Deurloo, chief commercial officer at Pratt & Whitney. “We remain committed to supporting aviation growth in Canada and have been proud to work with Air Canada since their inception more than 80 years ago.”
The A220, exclusively powered by the GTF engine, offers double-digit improvement in operating costs compared to current generation aircraft. It’s 20% more fuel efficient and provides a 75% reduction in noise footprint and NOx emissions 50% below the ICAO CAEP 6 regulation.
