On the Record with
Klaus Nittinger, Chairman, Rolls-Royce Deutschland

Rolls-Royce GmbH Mulls New Engine

Klaus Nittinger, Chairman, Rolls-Royce Deutschland

ILA 2000: The German arm of Rolls-Royce is expected to announce at ILA today it is considering a new engine of 16-19,000 lb thrust for the 70-100 passenger regional airliner market. It would have growth potential to 23,000 lb for up to 130-passenger aircraft, according to Mike Corne, head of marketing and sales for Rolls-Royce Deutschland.

The engine would fit snugly between the highly successful BR710 of 15,000 lbs (which powers the Gulfstream GV and Bombardier Global Express long range, high speed business jets) and the 18,500-21,000 lbs thrust BR715 on the 100-passenger Boeing 717.

Airframe manufacturers have already chosen GE's CF34 for the 70-passenger airliners, but Corne believes the new engine would be the best option for stretch models, providing commonality within a fleet.

The study has the approval of Rolls-Royce Deutschland chairman Dr. Klaus Nittinger, who is juggling many aspects of the company's future activities since BMW sold its share to joint venture partner Rolls-Royce just six months ago in return for a 10% stake in the parent firm.

BR715 engines have logged 35,000 hours in service on Boeing 717s.

Nittinger told Show News his main priorities now are to integrate the Dahlewitz-based company with Rolls-Royce worldwide, which will mean sharing skills and resources. In this respect RR Deutschland has taken on additional responsibilities for the Tay, Spey and Dart business, and has contributed to the Trent 500.

Collaboration is also likely with Snecma on the engine for the Airbus A400M transport, and the rivals have been mulling a joint program since January, he said.

©Show News 2000