FTAI Aviation has announced a multi-year maintenance, repair, and exchange (MRE) agreement with United Airlines, one of the world's largest operators of CFM56-7B engines. The initiative involves providing engine exchanges as an alternative to traditional shop visits, aiming to minimize aircraft downtime and reduce maintenance costs. The program, launched in 2026 with an initial group of engines, is set to expand as more engines are scheduled for removal.
Under the terms of the agreement, FTAI supplies a serviceable engine prior to United's scheduled engine removals. The unserviceable engines are then sent to FTAI, which adds them to its inventory for use across its maintenance network. This process allows United to maintain predictable operating costs while keeping its fleet operational. The program's expansion is coordinated with United's maintenance schedule to optimize efficiency.
Joe Adams, Chairman and CEO of FTAI, remarked, "United is one of the most respected operators in our industry, and its decision to adopt FTAI’s engine exchange program is a significant endorsement. This agreement enables United to keep its aircraft flying with reduced costs, while FTAI manages the shop visits."
United's Executive Vice President and CFO, Mike Leskinen, highlighted, "This partnership represents an important step forward for our Boeing 737 NG fleet. It will help improve aircraft utilization and support our efforts to fly more passengers to various destinations."
This development follows FTAI’s recent acquisition of 27 Boeing 737-700 aircraft from WestJet, which is among the largest aircraft transactions for the company to date, underscoring its growing presence in aircraft ownership and maintenance services.
