PARIS: Qatar receives first C-17 engines

The introduction of the C-17 into the Qatar fleet expands the international user community for the C-17, which already includes the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada. “ The C-17 is on the leading edge of transport operations all over the world,” said Bill Gostic, vice president, Pratt & Whitney Military Programs and Customer Support.  “The F117 engine reliability is world-class, contributing to the C-17's high mission-capable rate.  We are standing by ready to support Qatar as they introduce this new capability to their country.”

F117 engines have increased time on wing by more than 185 percent over the last 10 years under Pratt & Whitney’s fleet maintenance programme. The aircraft has a mission-capable rate of 85 percent and are regularly subjected to harsh operating conditions as a result of their ability to handle short-field, tactical missions, making maintenance even more critical to the health of the fleet.
    “A significant contributor to the C-17's high mission-capability rate is the outstanding reliability of its engines,” Gostic said.  “With fleet operations remaining high, Pratt & Whitney remains laser focused on continuing the level of quality and support our customers expect.”

    The on wing time of the Pratt & Whitney F117 engines has also increased as a result of the Pratt & Whitney EcoPower Engine Wash Service, which allows the aircraft to operate in a more efficient and environmentally responsible manner. These washes reduce engine fuel burn by as much as 1.2 percent, eliminate three pounds of carbon dioxide emissions for every pound of fuel saved, and decrease engine exhaust gas temperature, improving performance and increasing the amount of time an engine can stay on wing.  The patented collection system also purifies the waste wash water for reuse.