GE Aircraft Engines to construct new jet engine test facility for Emirates

The commitment reflects GEAE's growing cooperation with Emirates and Dubai.

Construction of the 6,000-square meter facility, with a 13-meter cross-section test chamber, is scheduled to begin in Dubai in 2004, with completion targeted for 2006. The test facility is an indoor jet engine test stand with a state-of-the-art data acquisition system and engine "preparation to test" area.

The test stand will be among the most versatile in aviation, capable of testing a wide array of jet engines such as the CFM56, the GP7200, the Trent series, and the GE90. It will be capable of testing jet engines up to 150,000 pounds of thrust. (The GE90 holds the world's thrust record at 127,900 pounds during ground tests.)

"This project demonstrates the strong relationship and cooperation between Emirates and GEAE, and our commitment to contribute in developing technical capabilities in Dubai," said David Calhoun, GEAE's President and CEO. "GEAE will provide Emirates with on-going technical support and training to maximize the facility's considerable capabilities."

The facility also reflects Emirates' strategy to expand its jet engine repair capabilities into the future. "This state-of-the-art facility will allow Emirates to increase its maintenance capabilities, and ultimately, offer services to other airlines worldwide," said Adel Al-Redha, Emirates' Executive Vice President of Engineering & Operations.

"This facility will make Emirates unique in offering a test facility to a wide range of engines, including the highest thrust available today in the market. We are very proud to build the most advanced and unique test facility in the world at Dubai. This will reduce Emirates' engine spare investment as well as generate extra revenue for the airline."