SkyEurope chooses Snecma Services to provide engine MRO

The contract covers exclusive maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services through 2008 for the CFM56-3 engines powering SkyEurope's fleet of 12 Boeing 737 twinjets. Snecma Services, part of the SAFRAN Group of France, is a recognized international specialist in commercial engine MRO services.

In addition to MRO services, the contract covers LRU (line replaceable unit) support, spare engines and technical assistance.

"As the leading low-cost carrier in this part of Europe, we are committed to meeting the most demanding criteria for availability, reliability and passenger comfort," said Gabriel Tari, Technical Manager at SkyEurope. "By choosing Snecma Services for engine maintenance, we know that we are receiving services from an expert provider, very close to the OEM. We were also won over by Snecma Services' ability to provide a complete package. In addition to its MRO services, the technical assistance and crew training aspects play a critical role in reducing our maintenance costs."

With some 40 years of experience in engine MRO services, Snecma Services was able to offer SkyEurope a maintenance concept perfectly adapted to the carrier's needs. Snecma Services set up a technical support team close to its customer, ensuring the effectiveness of local technical teams to optimize the use of these engines.

"The SkyEurope contract will bolster our presence in central Europe," said Jean Lin Fournereaux, Chairman and CEO of Snecma Services. "We already have several customers in the region, including CSA, Slovak Airlines and Austrian Airlines. This latest contract provides a new opportunity to consolidate our networks for close customer support."

SkyEurope Airlines recently announced the largest aircraft acquisition in central Europe. It will take delivery of 32 next-generation Boeing 737-700 twinjets from 2006 to 2009.