$250 Million Christchurch Engine Centre Expansion Announced
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- A 14,000 square metre expansion will support advanced engine maintenance in Christchurch.
- The project will create 200 skilled jobs and boost New Zealand's aviation capabilities.
- Expansion will enable eco-friendly maintenance for next-generation GTF engines by 2026.
The expansion, covering 14,000 square metres, will allow the centre to introduce GTF engine repair and maintenance capabilities, which are critical for servicing Air New Zealand’s V2500 and PW1100G-JM GTF engines. Dame Therese Walsh, chair of Air New Zealand, noted: “The introduction of new GTF repair capability will be completed in 2026, and the Christchurch Engine Centre will maintain, repair or overhaul both the V2500 and PW1100G-JM engines for many years to come.”
Pratt & Whitney president Shane Eddy highlighted the importance of investing in the Asia-Pacific region, stating, “With the Asia-Pacific region projected to experience the highest aviation growth globally over the next 20 years, it is a strategic imperative for us to invest here and partner with Air New Zealand as we continue to expand the GTF MRO network in support of the growing fleet.”
The expansion will allow for up to 140 GTF engine overhauls annually by 2032 and is expected to create 200 highly skilled jobs. Construction begins this month, with the first GTF engine overhaul anticipated in late 2026.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the project a significant investment in New Zealand’s economy. “This initiative helps expand our aviation industrial capability and adds 200 high-value jobs into the Canterbury region,” he said.
#BREAKING: American aerospace giant Pratt & Whitney and Air New Zealand announce US$150 million expansion at Christchurch Engine Centre. pic.twitter.com/GMIJxm8W6W
— Chris Lynch (@chrislynchmedia) November 7, 2024
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger celebrated the economic boost, stating, “The creation of 200 new jobs is great news for our local economy and further positions Christchurch as a world-class technology and aerospace hub.”
Founded in 1948, the Christchurch Engine Centre has evolved into a state-of-the-art facility. Since its partnership with Pratt & Whitney in 2001, it has overhauled more than 1,500 V2500 engines. The GTF engine, recognised for its efficiency and sustainability, will be a cornerstone of the centre’s future operations, reducing fuel consumption and emissions by 20% compared to older models.
The expansion also aligns with Pratt & Whitney’s sustainability goals, bringing innovative practices to support a greener future for the aviation industry.