$250 Million Boost for Christchurch Engine Centre.
Christchurch, NZ — In a milestone investment for New Zealand’s aviation sector, the Christchurch Engine Centre is set to receive a $250 million expansion aimed at boosting the nation’s aircraft maintenance capabilities. The Christchurch Engine Centre, a collaborative operation between Air New Zealand and U.S.-based Pratt & Whitney, specializes in maintaining aircraft engines and will soon expand to accommodate new, advanced repair functions previously handled overseas.
The project, inaugurated by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon alongside Air New Zealand Chair Dame Therese Walsh and Pratt & Whitney President Shane Eddy, promises to establish Christchurch as a hub for next-generation engine maintenance in the Asia-Pacific region.
Dame Therese Walsh emphasized the expansion’s role in bringing back to New Zealand maintenance work previously outsourced. “This investment allows us to service key engines—such as the V2500 engines powering our A321ceo aircraft and the PW1100G-JM GTF engines on our A320/A321neo fleet. With the introduction of GTF repair capability in 2026, our Christchurch Engine Centre will be well-positioned to handle complex maintenance, repair, and overhaul work on these critical models,” she said.
The facility’s expansion, which includes advanced repair technology and additional workspaces, is projected to generate approximately 200 new high-skilled jobs within New Zealand’s aviation sector. Pratt & Whitney President Shane Eddy praised the Christchurch workforce’s track record in quality and performance, noting that this expansion aligns with anticipated growth across the Asia-Pacific.
“With this region expected to see the highest aviation growth over the next two decades, investing in Christchurch is a strategic imperative,” Eddy commented. “Our partnership with Air New Zealand in expanding the GTF MRO [maintenance, repair, and overhaul] network will ensure we can support the expanding fleet here and across Asia-Pacific.”
Prime Minister Luxon hailed the expansion as a significant step for New Zealand’s economy, underscoring how this project strengthens the country’s industrial aviation capacity. “This partnership marks a substantial investment in New Zealand’s aviation future, supporting both local expertise and economic growth,” he said.
The Christchurch Engine Centre expansion reinforces New Zealand’s position as a leader in aviation maintenance and reflects a broader commitment to job creation and skill development in high-tech industries. The upgraded facility is expected to start its new operations in 2026, establishing Christchurch as a key player in the global GTF engine service network.
