The A320neo program continues its development, and we continue to update A320neo flight test hours. Â As the first aircraft readies for delivery, albeit a few weeks late, it is an appropriate time to see where the program stands as of year-end.
The chart below illustrates Airbus’ ongoing flight test program hours through year end.  Some of the test fleet with the GTF continues to operate and build more hours, despite full certification in place. We expect to see rising hours, especially for CFM LEAP powered version, as it goes through a similar regime that the P&W GTF endured for its certification.
P&W has firmly stated their engine is ready for delivery and meets specifications as guaranteed for fuel efficiency, noise, emissions and weight. There are a few items that need to be addressed, but they are known and minor, and more in line with what you’d expect in an evolutionary iteration of an engine with an entirely new architecture. The current situation slowing delivery is paperwork as stated by Airbus’ CEO. Pratt’s engine was certified in November. It appears the catch up process will be done in the coming days and delivery to Lufthansa could be in the last week of January.
