In a first for the airline in more than 20 years, Delta opened a new state-of-the-art “test cell” on Thursday. Capable of running a mounted, stationary engine at full power with some 150,000 pounds of thrust, it will be the world’s largest test cell and will allow Delta to try out new engines that have yet to be designed or built. Currently, the Delta test cell has a capacity of 68,000 pounds thrust while the GE90 that is part of Delta’s Boeing 777-200LR fleet, is rated up to 115,000 pounds of thrust.
Delta TechOps leaders and employees turned out to cut the ribbon and talk a little about what it means for the Atlanta-based airline.
“This new test cell is not only great for the future of Delta, but for our future aircraft maintenance technicians and engineers,” said Don Mitacek, Senior Vice President — TechOps. “The quality of work and expertise of our people are the reason why we are able to confidently invest so heavily in our future. They are really leaving a legacy behind with the new test cell and engine shop — both facilities are a reflection of the accomplishments and dedication of our people.”
The test cell will be paired with Delta’s new 127,000-square-foot engine repair shop and will allow the airline to repair and test much of its machinery in-house. Passengers never know it but planes are routinely going in and out of maintenance and the fewer time planes are in the shop the more they can be ferrying passengers through the friendly skies.
“Delta continues to lead the industry in innovation and reliability. This impressive new technology allows Delta to build and maintain better engines and prepares them to meet growing industry demands,” said Senator Perdue, who turned out for the opening. “Delta’s leaders and employees are some of the best in the business, and their continued investment will help attract even more highly-skilled technicians and engineers as they expand operations. I am proud Delta calls Georgia home and appreciate the significant impact they have on our state every day.”
Delta signed an agreement in October 2015 with Rolls-Royce to become an Authorized Maintenance Center for Rolls-Royce engines. Delta provides service for the latest generation of Rolls-Royce Trent XWB, Trent 1000, Trent 7000 and BR715 engines. Delta uses the BR715 but Airbus, American Airlines and United uses the others. The maintenance agreement means Delta business is not only good for them but good for the airline industry as a whole. Some 7,000 engines are already committed to the engine shop.
Delta Techops is composed of some 10,000 technicians, engineers and other support employees that provide service to the more than 850 aircraft in the Delta fleet. The Maintenance Repair and Overhaul line of business for Delta is expected to surpass $1 billion in the next five years.
“These investments are about expanding Delta’s business opportunities today while also setting us up for long-term growth,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “Building on the expertise of the world’s best professionals, we will be positioned to grow with the industry’s evolving technology and next generation engines and aircraft.”
