Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines selects CFM LEAP-1A engines to power 5 Airbus A320neo family aircraft

Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan, has announced its decision to equip five Airbus A320neo‑family aircraft with CFM International LEAP‑1A engines. The selection covers three A320neoand two A321XLR aircraft, part of the fleet expansion first revealed in 2024. Drukair has been a CFM operator for more than two decades, beginning in 2004 with the arrival of its first Airbus A319ceo powered by CFM56 engines. Today, the airline operates a mixed narrow‑body fleet that includes one LEAP‑powered A320neo alongside three CFM56‑powered A319ceo aircraft, reflecting a long‑standing and consistent reliance on CFM propulsion technology.

Tandi Wangchuk, CEO of Drukair commented: “We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with CFM through this purchase of LEAP-1A engines. The LEAP-1A assets in terms of efficiency and reliability will support Drukair’s next phase of growth across Asia while helping us strengthen connectivity and deliver greater value to our passengers.”

Gaël Méheust, president and CEO of CFM International stated: “We are honored by Drukair’s renewed confidence in CFM products and support. We remain committed to playing a major role in Drukair’s growth and to ensuring smooth ramp of LEAP-powered aircraft in its fleet, with the highest standards in customer support.”

CFM’s LEAP engine program has surpassed 10,000 deliveries, marking the fastest production ramp‑up in the history of commercial aviation. The company continues to enhance fleet performance through ongoing upgrades, including a high‑pressure turbine (HPT) durability kit designed to extend time on wing, and a reverse bleed system (RBS) that improves operational efficiency.

CFM’s strategy remains centered on ensuring high engine availability, supported by robust MRO performance and a competitive cost of ownership. Operators also benefit from the brand’s open MRO ecosystem, which fosters aftermarket competition and broadens maintenance choice.