Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower Geared Turbofan Engine™ has entered into service with VivaAerobus on the operator’s A320neo.

The aircraft made its first passenger flight on Oct. 18 from Monterrey to Guadalajara, Mexico. This milestone comes days after the last leg of the aircraft’s ferry flight became the longest A320neo flight to date. The flight from Keflavik, Iceland to Monterrey, Mexico, was nine hours and 32 minutes, the longest flight to date on an A320neo. Pratt & Whitney is a division of United Technologies Corp.

“The VivaAerobus introduction of its A320neo into passenger service was the next step in the transformation of our young airline. On day one of passenger service, the aircraft conducted eight flights carrying about 1,160 passengers between various cities in Mexico,” said Juan Carlos Zuazua, CEO of VivaAerobus.

“The PurePower Engine’s lower fuel burn, 18 percent better on the ferry flight, will help us meet our customers’ expectations of dependable service at a lower cost. We are proud of our relationship with Pratt & Whitney and proud to be flying one of the most advanced technologies in the field of civil aviation.”

Eight carriers are flying 26 Geared Turbofan Engine powered aircraft across the globe. GTF Engines have earned more than 30,000 revenue hours and powered more than 13,000 flights.

“Pratt & Whitney is honored to support VivaAerobus on its first A320neo passenger flights using the revolutionary technology in our Geared Turbofan Engine,” said Rick Deurloo, senior vice president, Commercial Engine Sales, Marketing and Customer Support at Pratt & Whitney.

“The PurePower Engine is transforming aviation through its reduced fuel burn, which will help VivaAerobus control its operating expenses.”

The PurePower Geared Turbofan Engine backlog continues to grow. Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower Engine has more than 8,400 engine orders, including options, from more than 80 customers in 30 countries.