CEO Confirms Renewed Focus on Single-Aisle Segment
Rolls-Royce is actively pursuing a re-entry into the narrow-body jet engine market, according to CEO Tufan Erginbilgic. Speaking at the Paris Airshow, Erginbilgic reiterated that the single-aisle segment represents a major growth opportunity, emphasizing that “it is even more true now” than in the past. The company aims to rejoin the market through a partnership and is currently in discussions with multiple industry players, including Airbus and Boeing.
Strategic Timing Ahead of Fleet Renewal Cycle
The next generation of narrow-body aircraft is expected to arrive around 2035, replacing the dominant Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families. Rolls-Royce previously exited this market in 2011, ending its collaboration with Pratt & Whitney. Now, as global demand for single-aisle jets continues to grow, the British engine maker sees re-entry as potentially the most significant contributor to U.K. economic growth in the aerospace sector.
Ultrafan Project Positions Rolls for Competitiveness
To support its ambitions, Rolls-Royce is developing a smaller version of its Ultrafan demonstrator, designed for higher fuel efficiency. The Ultrafan is seen as a stepping stone toward re-entering the single-aisle space with a ducted engine that balances innovation with manageable risk. In contrast, GE Aerospace and Safran are working on open-fan technology under their RISE program, targeting 20% fuel savings by 2035. Rolls-Royce, however, questions the commercial viability and passenger acceptance of this design.
Weighing Efficiency Gains Against Market Risks
Erginbilgic acknowledged that open-fan technology might offer slightly better fuel savings — around 2–3% — but argued that the risks involved in overhauling aircraft design and passenger perception are substantial. “You’re going to change the whole aircraft configuration,” he warned. “Not everybody is comfortable with flying, so you need to make it as comfortable, as safe as possible.” Rolls is betting on a more traditional engine architecture with improved efficiency, prioritizing risk management and customer comfort over radical innovation.
