Ryanair Holdings has announced plans to bring its engine maintenance operations in-house by 2029. The low-cost carrier will purchase spare parts directly from engine manufacturer CFM International, a joint venture of General Electric and Safran Aircraft Engines, in a deal worth over USD 1 billion annually. The airline aims to build two maintenance centers in Europe, with Sevilla identified as the first location, to service its fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft powered by CFM56 engines and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft fueled by LEAP-1B engines.
This strategic move is expected to generate substantial cost savings compared to the current power-by-the-hour maintenance agreements. Ryanair’s decision reflects its broader efforts to optimize operational efficiency and control maintenance costs. The airline’s fleet primarily consists of Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX aircraft, and the new in-house facilities will support its expanding network across Europe, maintaining its competitive low-cost model.
The in-house maintenance initiative underscores the importance of vertical integration within the airline industry, as carriers seek greater control over costs and supply chain management. While details about the project timeline and facility size are still emerging, the plan illustrates Ryanair’s continuing emphasis on cost reduction and strategic growth in the competitive European market.
