EVENDALE, OH -- Virgin America has signed a 12-year OnPointSM Solutions agreement with GE Aviation Services for the maintenance and overhaul of the CFM56-5B* engines that power its fleet of Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. The agreement, which initially covers 70 installed and spare engines, is valued at more than $145 million of the life of the contract.
Virgin America, the new U.S. domestic start-up airline, ordered CFM56-5B engines in June 2004 to power up to 105 Airbus A320 family aircraft. The airline currently has firm orders for 31 A320 family aircraft.
"At Virgin America we aim to provide innovative services to our customers," said Guy Borowski, senior vice president, Technical Operations. "Similarly, we look for innovative offerings from our maintenance partners. GE Aviation Services provides the expertise, flexibility and breadth of services that we desire."
OnPoint Solutions are flexible long-term commitments designed to meet customers' unique engine service needs. Backed by GE's world-class support, these solutions are designed to help increase asset value and utilization and improve operating efficiencies. Available OnPoint services include overhaul, on-wing support, new and used parts, component repair, technology upgrades, engine leasing and diagnostics.
About GE:
GE - Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is one of the world's leading manufacturers of jet engines for civil and military aircraft, and also one of the world's leading providers of jet engine maintenance and support services.
About Virgin America:
Virgin America, a 'new generation' low-fare airline, intends to launch scheduled domestic airline service in 2007 upon government approval. U.S.-owned and operated, Virgin America is based at San Francisco International Airport and has placed firm orders for 31 Airbus A320 aircraft.
SMOnPoint is a service mark of General Electric Company.
*CFM56-5 engines are produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between GE and Snecma.