Ryanair to Bring Engine Maintenance In-House by 2029
Ryanair Holdings has signed a landmark agreement with CFM International to bring engine maintenance operations in-house from 2029, marking a major strategic shift for Europe’s largest low-cost carrier.
Under the deal with CFM International — the joint venture between General Electric and Safran Aircraft Engines — Ryanair will move away from its current power-by-the-hour maintenance arrangement and instead purchase spare parts directly from the engine manufacturer. The airline expects to acquire more than USD1 billion worth of components annually, aiming to generate significant long-term cost savings and greater operational control.
The agreement covers maintenance support for Ryanair’s fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft powered by CFM56 engines and its expanding fleet of Boeing 737 MAX jets equipped with LEAP-1B engines. By internalizing maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, Ryanair intends to reduce reliance on third-party providers while improving turnaround times and fleet reliability.
To support the transition, Ryanair plans to establish two dedicated engine maintenance facilities in Europe. Sevilla has reportedly been selected as the first site, with operations expected to ramp up before the 2029 launch. The facilities will handle engine shop visits, component repairs and overhauls across the airline’s growing narrowbody fleet.
The move reflects Ryanair’s broader strategy of maintaining tight cost discipline while scaling operations. With hundreds of aircraft in service and substantial Boeing 737 MAX deliveries scheduled in the coming years, engine maintenance represents one of the carrier’s largest long-term expense categories. Bringing this function in-house is designed to enhance cost predictability and provide greater control over parts inventory and maintenance scheduling.
The agreement with CFM International also ensures continued technical collaboration between the airline and engine manufacturer, particularly as Ryanair increases its LEAP-1B-powered fleet.
By shifting to a vertically integrated maintenance model, Ryanair aims to strengthen operational resilience and support future growth while reinforcing its position as one of Europe’s most cost-efficient airlines.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com