Skybus is First with Advanced Configuration

Skybus Airlines has taken delivery of a new Airbus A319 aircraft equipped with CFM56-5B Tech Insertion engines, making it the first North American operator to put the advanced configuration into revenue service. The CFM56 Tech Insertion program, which was certified on A320 family aircraft in September of this year, incorporates advanced technologies that provide operators with lower maintenance costs and better environmental performance. Improved analytic design tools enabled CFM to further improve the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide approximately 25 percent lower oxides of nitrogen emissions. As a result, this engine will meet the new International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP /6) scheduled to take effect in early 2008. In addition, the engine’s one percent improvement in fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by up to 200 tons per aircraft per year. During the engine's life cycle, CFM56 Tech Insertion should also provide Skybus with longer time on wing and lower maintenance costs through enhanced durability.