Rolls-Royce celebrates contract with CIT to supply engines to fly 23 Airbus planes

Rolls, the world’s second-largest maker of aircraft engines behind US group General Electric, said the deal included Trent XWB engines to power 10 A350 aircraft and Trent 700 engines for 13 Airbus A330 jets.

The Trent XWB, specifically designed for the Airbus A350, is the fastest selling Trent engine ever, with more than 1,200 already sold, according to Rolls. The A350 is due to enter service in 2014.

Rolls-Royce did not give a value for the CIT deal.

Last month Rolls said it had won a £1bn order from British Airways parent IAG for Trent XWB engines to power 18 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, including a support package.

Jeff Knittel, chief executive officer, CIT Transportation Finance, said: “As one of the largest aircraft lessors in the world, we strive to provide our customers with the most fuel efficient, technologically advanced products.

“The Trent family of engines has proven to be reliable in offering high fuel and operating efficiency, and it remains in high demand among our global customer base.”

Eric Schulz, president – civil large engines, Rolls-Royce, said: “CIT is a valued customer and we are delighted that it has again put its trust in our industry-leading tech- nology.

“This order underscores the market-leading position of the Trent 700, and reflects our ability to deliver a Trent XWB engine that has already proven itself in test flights to be the most efficient large aero engine flying today.”