EASA Certifies A350-900’s Trent XWB-84 EP Engine
EASA’s approval paves the way for FAA certification, enabling global airline adoption of the upgraded engine.
On April 11, Airbus announced that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has certified the A350-900 fitted with Rolls-Royce’s Trent XWB-84 Enhanced Performance (EP) engine.
The upgrade is expected to improve efficiency, with Airbus stating it will reduce fuel consumption by 1%, lowering operating costs and emissions.
Engine Enhancements and Efficiency Gains According to Airbus, the Trent XWB-84 EP engine is an evolution of the current A350-900 powerplant, featuring:
- Improved aerodynamics in the fan, compressor, and turbine, enhancing overall performance.
- Upgraded turbine blade cooling, contributing to long-term efficiency.
- 1% lower fuel consumption, which Airbus highlights as a cost-saving and sustainability measure.
Certification and Next Steps
Airbus states that EASA’s approval follows an extensive ground and flight-test programme, confirming refinements in design.
“This certification milestone, which is the culmination of an extensive ground and flight-test programme, demonstrates the continuous development and improvement of the A350-900 and its Trent XWB engines since the family’s entry into service 10 years ago,” the company said in its announcement.
The manufacturer added that the FAA’s corresponding certification is ‘in the very near future,’ allowing airlines worldwide to integrate the upgraded engine into operations.