Global Engine Stand Utilization Hits Record Levels in 2026

Global MRO facilities are facing severe infrastructure strain as airlines simultaneously manage early-life maintenance for new-generation engines and extend the life of mature narrowbody fleets.

According to operational data released on July 17, 2026, by EngineStands, utilization rates for engine stands supporting both legacy and new-generation powerplants reached record levels in the first half of 2026. The data highlights the physical infrastructure demands resulting from ongoing aerospace supply-chain constraints and delayed new aircraft deliveries.

New-generation engine demands drive utilization

The Pratt & Whitney PW1100G recorded a 95% stand utilization rate in the first half of 2026, the highest across the EngineStands portfolio. Despite the high demand, the average project duration for PW1100G stands dropped to 123 days, down from 245 days in 2024. This efficiency improvement correlates with an approximate 15% decline in PW1100G aircraft groundings during the same period. Groundings for the engine type previously peaked at 648 aircraft, or 28% of the global fleet, in March 2025.

Demand for CFM International LEAP-1A stands also remained high, reaching 71% utilization, with average project durations shortening by approximately 8%. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted the long-term trajectory of these requirements in a June 24, 2026, study. IATA forecasts that LEAP engine shop visits will increase from 600 to 800 in 2025 to 5,000 annually by 2040.

“Resolving today’s disruption is the immediate priority. But long-term resilience will depend on a more transparent, competitive and collaborative aftermarket,” said IATA Director General Willie Walsh.

Legacy fleets compound maintenance constraints

Because new aircraft deliveries remain insufficient to meet market demand, operators are heavily utilizing mature aircraft. The Airbus A320ceo and Boeing 737 Next Generation (737NG) currently account for approximately 60% of the global in-service fleet. This reliance is driving sustained demand for legacy engine support infrastructure.

Stand utilization for the CFM International CFM56-5A/B rose to 92% in the first half of 2026, an increase from 77% in 2025. The CFM56-7B saw 77% utilization, with average project durations shortening by approximately 17%. The IAE V2500 recorded a 76% utilization rate, though project durations for this engine type lengthened by roughly 9%.

EngineStands data illustrates the rapid accumulation of maintenance requirements for these active fleets. A Boeing 737NG operating five to six cycles per day can consume 450 cycles in a single summer season. Similarly, an Airbus A320 flying 8 to 10 hours daily can consume a 750 flight-hour light check interval in just 75 to 94 days.

Financial results reflect aftermarket pressure

The intense demand for engine maintenance is clearly visible in manufacturer financial results. On July 16, 2026, GE Aerospace reported its second-quarter results, showing a 27% year-over-year increase in Commercial Engines & Services segment revenue, which reached $9.73 billion. The company also reported a 24% increase in LEAP engine deliveries during the quarter.

“GE Aerospace delivered a strong second quarter with revenue and EPS both up more than 20% driven by robust commercial services growth,” said GE Aerospace CEO H. Lawrence Culp Jr.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that the global MRO sector is caught in a structural squeeze. The simultaneous need to support aging CFM56 and V2500 engines alongside the intensive early-life maintenance requirements of the PW1100G and LEAP platforms is unprecedented. The shortening of stand rental durations for the PW1100G suggests that Pratt & Whitney and its MRO network are becoming more efficient at processing shop visits, which aligns with the reported 15% reduction in grounded aircraft. However, the high utilization rates across all engine types indicate that physical infrastructure and supply chain capacity will remain a critical bottleneck for the foreseeable future.

Sources: EngineStands