Maintenance-support provider Engine Assurance Program (EAP) has added to its menu of engines that it serves. Best known for supporting the Honeywell TFE731 turbofan, EAP now provides coverage for the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A/B, the Rolls-Royce Tay 611-8, and the GE CF34-3A/3A1. Those engines power the Learjet 60/60XR, Hawker 1000, Gulfstream GIV/SP, and Challenger 601-1A/3A.
EAP program director Sean Lynch said customers have been asking EAP to extend its menu to cover those engines. “They fit our mission of supporting older engine platforms and of helping owners save money,” he said. “No EAP clients have ever missed a trip because of an AOG issue, either. When a customer calls with an unscheduled engine issue, we jump into action until the engine is returned to service.”
EAP reckons its oversight helps operators save as much as $120 per engine per operating hour, increases dispatch reliability, and adds to an aircraft’s residual value. Coverage includes scheduled and unscheduled engine maintenance, including life-limited parts, line replaceable units, removal and replacement, shipping, rentals, line maintenance, and access to 24/7 AOG assistance. The program also offers catastrophic coverage and requires only 75 hours as a yearly minimum. The company also offers APU coverage.
Lynch said EAP has doubled its enrollment every year since it entered the engine support market in 2015 and continues to grow. “The most significant way to maintain an aircraft’s value is to maintain its engines, so the fact that EAP offers comprehensive coverage for 30 percent less cost [than competing support programs] is an excellent way to save money while preserving the value of the asset,” he said.
As part of its expansion, EAP added Jim Wilson as regional sales manager, based in Michigan. An ATP with 50 years experience and type ratings in several jets, Wilson also holds an A&P certificate. “We’re excited to have Jim and his expertise on the EAP team,” said Marco Cardenas, EAP sales director.