British Airways selects Pratt & Whitney GTF engines for up to 63 Airbus A320neos
British Airways has selected Pratt & Whitney GTF engines to power up to 63 Airbus A320neo-family aircraft, giving RTX an early commercial win at the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow.
The agreement covers 33 firm aircraft and a further 30 options, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027. Pratt & Whitney will also maintain the engines under a 12-year EngineWise Comprehensive service agreement.
The announcement is an engine selection for aircraft already included in British Airways’ fleet plans rather than a new order for 63 Airbus aircraft.
Rick Deurloo, president of commercial engines at Pratt & Whitney, described the selection by the UK flag carrier as a “strong vote of confidence” in the geared turbofan programme.
“The GTF engine will help British Airways achieve its international fleet expansion goals and enhance the travel experience for passengers,” he said.
GTF breaks into British Airways’ A320neo fleet
The decision introduces a new engine manufacturer to British Airways’ current-generation Airbus narrowbody fleet.
British Airways currently operates 33 A320neo aircraft, powered by CFM International LEAP-1A26 engines. The airline also uses the LEAP-1A on its existing A321neo fleet, meaning the GTF selection represents a departure from its existing engine strategy for the type.
Airbus offers customers a choice between the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM geared turbofan and the CFM International LEAP-1A across the A320neo family.
Introducing GTF-powered aircraft will give British Airways a mixed-engine A320neo Family operation, potentially providing greater flexibility in future fleet and maintenance planning, although it will also require the airline to support two separate engine types.
The 12-year EngineWise agreement means Pratt & Whitney will retain responsibility for long-term engine maintenance as the aircraft enter service.
GTF Advantage prepares for service entry
Pratt & Whitney claims the GTF provides 20% lower fuel consumption and a 75% smaller noise footprint than previous-generation engines.
More than 2,800 GTF-powered aircraft are now operated by over 90 customers, while Pratt & Whitney reports an order backlog exceeding 8,000 engines.
The manufacturer is also preparing to introduce its upgraded GTF Advantage engine later in 2026. The new standard is intended to deliver improved durability, additional range capability and up to twice the time on wing compared with the current configuration.
The engine selection supports British Airways’ continued renewal of its short-haul fleet. Airbus listed the airline with 64 firm A320neo-family orders at the end of June 2026, comprising 40 A320neos and 24 A321neos.
