International Airlines Group (IAG) has signed a licensing agreement with CFM International for a new LEAP Premier MRO license, designating Iberia Maintenance as the latest provider in CFM’s elite network. This move strengthens the global LEAP engine support ecosystem by adding capacity at Iberia’s Madrid facility.
The agreement covers LEAP-1A engines powering Airbus A320neo aircraft and LEAP-1B engines on Boeing 737 MAX jets, with A320neo dominance in IAG’s fleet driving the focus. Iberia Maintenance at La Muñoza, adjacent to Madrid-Barajas Airport, gains access to CFM’s proprietary overhaul technology, training, and support resources.
Operations are slated to commence in Q1 2027, expanding CFM’s Premier MRO roster that currently includes Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance, Delta TechOps, Lufthansa Technik, ST Engineering, and StandardAero. This addition addresses surging demand for LEAP maintenance amid rapid fleet growth in narrowbody operations.
The license aligns with CFM’s open MRO strategy, enhancing competition and availability for airlines reliant on these high-thrust engines. For IAG, it bolsters in-house capabilities, cuts turnaround times, and optimizes costs across its transatlantic and European networks.