$150 Million Expansion at Christchurch Engine Centre to Boost GTF Engine Overhaul Capabilities

Pratt & Whitney and Air New Zealand have recently marked the commencement of a $150 million expansion of the Christchurch Engine Centre, enhancing its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities for the Pratt & Whitney GTF engine. The 14,000m² expansion aims to support up to 140 GTF engine overhauls annually by 2032.

Construction is underway, with the first GTF overhaul expected by the fourth quarter of 2026. The Christchurch Engine Centre, founded in 1948 by Air New Zealand and partnered with Pratt & Whitney since 2001, has previously serviced over 1,500 V2500 engines.

Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, hailed the investment as significant for the country’s economy and industrial capability, creating 200 high-value jobs in the Canterbury region. Pratt & Whitney President Shane Eddy highlighted the importance of expanding the GTF MRO network in the growing Asia-Pacific aviation market.

The GTF engine, known for its fuel efficiency and sustainability, has saved airlines two billion gallons of fuel and reduced carbon emissions by 20 million metric tonnes since 2016. Air New Zealand Chair Dame Therese Walsh noted that the expansion would allow the airline to service its V2500 and PW1100G-JM engines locally, ensuring continued operational efficiency as the fleet grows.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger expressed confidence in the expansion’s positive impact on both the Christchurch Engine Centre and the local economy, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a global aerospace hub.

The expansion aligns with Pratt & Whitney’s sustainability vision, with plans to incorporate greener business practices and innovations to reduce environmental impact and support the health and safety of employees and the surrounding community.