Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

Xiamen Airlines has signed a multi-year agreement for ST Engineering to support the CFM Leap-1A engines powering the Chinese carrier’s Airbus A320 fleet. Under the contract announced at the Singapore Airshow on Wednesday, the group’s commercial maintenance, repair, and overhaul operation will handle the first Performance Restoration Shop Visits (PRSV) for the turbofans.
ST Engineering is preparing to provide PRSV cover for both the Leap-1A engines and the Leap-1Bs that power Boeing 737 Max narrowbodies that Xiamen also has in its fleet. The Singapore company provides full overhaul support for the CFM turbofans.
Xiamen has sent engines to ST Engineering for over 25 years, starting with shop visits for the GE JT8D, as well as the CFM56-3 and -7B. The airline placed its first A320 narrowbody orders in 2022, having previously been an all-Boeing operation.
“The success of ST Engineering in winning this highly competitive bidding project on the first round PRSV of Xiamen Airlines’ Leap-1A fleet fully demonstrates its comprehensive competence in the engine maintenance industry, including quality, service, and pricing,” said Tang Jianqi, deputy general manager of engineering and maintenance at the carrier. “For airlines, engine overhaul strategy is one of the most critical decisions in engineering and maintenance.”

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