Italy’s ITA Airways Weighs Legal Action Against Pratt & Whitney Over Grounded Airbus Fleet

Italy’s national carrier, ITA Airways, is preparing to decide within the next six to eight weeks whether to pursue legal action against aerospace engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX, over ongoing engine issues that have grounded a significant portion of its aircraft fleet.

Speaking during a major international airline industry gathering in Rio de Janeiro, ITA Airways CEO Joerg Eberhart revealed that the airline is currently assessing the financial impact caused by the Pratt & Whitney engine problems. According to Eberhart, nearly 20% of the airline’s 80-aircraft fleet remains out of service due to engine-related complications affecting Airbus A320neo jets.

The disruption stems from problems involving Pratt & Whitney’s geared turbofan (GTF) engines, which power many Airbus A320neo aircraft worldwide. The issue has resulted in extended inspection and repair timelines, forcing hundreds of Airbus jets across the global aviation sector to remain grounded. The situation intensified after Pratt & Whitney disclosed a manufacturing defect in 2023 involving contaminated powdered metal used in engine components.

Eberhart stated that ITA Airways is currently calculating the total financial damage linked to the grounded aircraft, estimating losses of approximately €150 million ($171 million). While discussions with Pratt & Whitney are ongoing, the airline believes the compensation proposals offered so far do not adequately cover the damages incurred.

“We are quantifying the damage we are facing, which is about 150 million euros,” Eberhart said, adding that negotiations with the engine manufacturer have yet to produce a satisfactory solution.

RTX has not immediately commented on the possibility of legal action. However, the company has previously stated that Pratt & Whitney is implementing measures to accelerate engine inspections, maintenance, and repair operations to address the widespread impact on airlines operating GTF-powered aircraft.

The potential lawsuit highlights growing tensions within the aviation industry as airlines continue to face operational and financial challenges linked to Pratt & Whitney engine inspections and repair delays. As ITA Airways evaluates its next steps, the outcome could have broader implications for airline compensation claims and the future management of Airbus A320neo engine issues worldwide.