PARIS, FRANCE — Air France-KLM enters into exclusive negotiations with the American aircraft manufacturer CFM International for the acquisition of LEAP-1A engines to power its new fleet of Airbus A320neo and A321neo.

This decision follows the Group’s order, announced last December, for 100 Airbus A320neo family aircraft - with purchase rights for 60 additional aircraft, to renew the fleets of KLM and Transavia Netherlands, and to renew and expand the fleet of Transavia France.

Manufactured by CFM International, a 50/50 joint venture between GE Aviation and Safran Aircraft Engines, the LEAP-1A engine is the latest generation engine, which contributes to the global performance and efficiency of the Airbus A320neo aircraft family.

“We look forward to working with CFM International in the coming weeks through these exclusive negotiations. We are confident that our two groups will be able to continue a long-term relationship and to build a sustainable future together,” 

Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM said.

CFM International already provides engines to Boeing 737 NG (CFM56-7B) and Airbus A320ceo (CFM56-5B) fleets.