Engine Overview
The GE CF6 family is the cornerstone of the widebody, high bypass ratio turbofan engine business at GE. For more than 30 years, the GE CF6 family of engines has established an impressive operational record. The engine family has compiled more than 325 million flight hours with more than 260 customer since it entered commercial revenue service in 1971.
The CF6 traces its beginnings to the early 1960's and the GE TF39 engine. In 1965, GE was awarded the contract to develop the engines for the USAF's Lockheed C-5A "Galaxy" transport. The technology and design philosophy incorporated into this powerplant launched GE into the high bypass commercial market.
Today, GE's strong commercial customer base is testament to our ability to design and build engines that exceed our customer's expectations.
Starting in 1971 with the 40,000 lb. thrust CF6-6 and continuing today with our newest, highest thrust CF6 engine, the 72,000 lb. thrust CF6-80E1, more CF6 engines have been produced and have flown more hours than any other high bypass engine family ever produced. These engines have been among the most utilized and reliable in the industry.
But the CF6 engine program is not one to rest on past accomplishments. GE designers and engineers are constantly improving the performance and reliability of this proven industry leader.
New technology and materials are being infused into this mature engine line to insure that the CF6 continues to set the pace for engines in its thrust class for years to come. Improvements such as a low emissions combustor and advancements in the high pressure turbine technology will maximize customer value well into the 21st century.
While today's CF6 engines look different than the CF6-6 that took to the skies in 1971, the remarkable achievement is that the engine line remains in production today—40 years later—and production is projected to continue through 2024. To date, 7000 CF6 engine have been delivered, with over 250 operators in 87 countries in operation today. An astonishing 68 percent of all the CF6 engines delivered are still in service today. This 40 year product run is a testimony to the solid design characteristics, superb operational characteristics and a solid customer base, which continues to this day to rely on the CF6 to exceed their airlines operational needs.
