Zhejiang Loong Airlines selects Pratt & Whitney AeroPower

ZHUHAI, China - Pratt & Whitney AeroPower has signed a long-term auxiliary power unit (APU) maintenance support agreement with Zhejiang Loong Airlines for its new fleet of 30 Airbus A320 family aircraft, including nine A320neos. The agreement also covers repair and spares support services. First aircraft deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2015. Pratt & Whitney is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company.

"Loong Airlines is seeking to expand flight routes to provide more connections and frequency in order to meet the growing travel demand of domestic passengers," said Liu Qihong, chairman of Zhejiang Loong Airlines. "Pratt & Whitney AeroPower's APS3200 brings economic value to our fleet operations, while providing cabin comfort to our passengers."

"We are delighted to enter into our first long-term support agreement with Zhejiang Loong Airlines and support their fleet as they enter into a period of rapid growth," said Eileen Drake, vice president and general manager, Pratt & Whitney AeroPower. "Our maintenance support program continues to bring value to our customers by providing timely APU repair and spares support for daily operations."

Pratt & Whitney AeroPower's APS3200 APU is also currently installed on Zhejiang Loong Airlines' existing A320 family of aircraft, and is certified for a 180-minute Extended range Twin Operations (ETOPs) operation. APUs provide secondary power for main engine starting, cabin air conditioning and electric power for aircraft while on the ground. APUs can also provide electric power during in-flight operation.

Zhejiang Loong Airlines Co. Ltd., headquartered in Hangzhou, capital city of Zhejian province in Eastern China, began its services in 2013. The airline now flies to 29 destinations within China.

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, provides high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries.

sourced:traveldailynews.asia