Rolls-Royce Secures LATAM Return with Trent 1000 XE Engine Deal
Rolls-Royce Holdings plc has secured a renewed partnership with LATAM Airlines Group, following an order to supply Trent 1000 XE engines to power three Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets.
The agreement marks a significant commercial win for the British engine manufacturer, as LATAM returns to Rolls-Royce for its long-haul fleet requirements. It also signals growing confidence in the performance and durability improvements made to the Trent 1000 engine family.
The Trent 1000 XE incorporates a series of technical upgrades stemming from a two-phase durability enhancement programme. Central to these improvements is a redesigned high-pressure turbine blade, which increases cooling airflow by 40 per cent and extends time-on-wing by up to three times compared to earlier versions. The enhancements are aimed at reducing maintenance frequency and improving operational reliability—critical factors for airlines operating in demanding environments.
Rolls-Royce says the upgraded engine is already delivering industry-leading reliability, with some customer fleets reporting no aircraft-on-ground (AOG) disruptions linked to engine performance.
Chief Executive Tufan Erginbilgic said the deal reflects renewed market trust in the Trent 1000 programme.
“We’re proud that LATAM Airlines has returned to Rolls-Royce as its Boeing 787 engine partner. This order demonstrates growing market confidence in the Trent 1000 XE and reflects the benefits that our ongoing transformation is delivering.”
He added that continued investment in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) infrastructure and improvements in engine longevity are strengthening Rolls-Royce’s competitive position in the widebody market.
LATAM Airlines Group CEO Roberto Alvo said the agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between the two companies.
“The incorporation of the Trent 1000 XE on our Boeing 787 aircraft supports our efforts to enhance operational efficiency, while providing optionality to capture growth opportunities as we continue developing our long-haul network.”
Confidence in the Trent 1000 XE is underpinned by operational data from similar upgrades deployed on the Trent 7000 engine, which has accumulated more than two million flying hours.
Rolls-Royce has also expanded its global MRO network, with new facilities in the UK, Singapore and Germany, alongside a larger spare engine pool aimed at reducing turnaround times and minimising disruption for airline customers.
The investment forms part of a broader £1 billion programme to develop and enhance the Trent engine family, as the company seeks to strengthen its position in the long-haul aviation market.
Rolls-Royce reported underlying revenues of £20.1 billion in 2025, with operating profits reaching £3.46 billion, reflecting ongoing improvements under its multi-year transformation strategy.