GENEVA, SWITZERLAND - GE Aviation has finalized the architectural design of its Passport engine for the Bombardier* Global 7000 and Global 8000 aircraft.

The "Tollgate 6" review, part of GE's New Product Introduction process, was held on April 27. With the design frozen, GE now begins the detailed design phase. Component fabrication will begin soon, leading to the start of assembly of the first full engine by year end. The first engine is scheduled to begin testing in 2013.

"With the engine architecture in place, the team is now focused on moving the Passport engine from CAD drawings to development assembly," said Brad Mottier, vice president and general manager of GE Aviation's Business and General Aviation organization. "The Passport engine will incorporate advanced technologies and materials to provide 8% lower specific fuel consumption than engines in its class, margin to emissions and noise regulations and world-class reliability and support."

The Passport engine for the Global 7000 and Global 8000 business jets will produce 16,500 pounds of thrust and incorporate a composite fan case that will reduce weight, a unique 52" front fan blisk for lower cabin noise and vibration and technologies from GE's eCore suite that reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency. The Passport's integrated propulsion system from Nexcelle, a joint venture between GE and Safran, will provide aerodynamic advantages and feature outward opening clamshell upper and lower cowl doors for easy maintenance access and high dispatch availability.

Since launching the engine in 2010, GE has conducted validation tests on the fan blisk design and other components with positive results. Testing was completed on two eCore demonstrators, which accumulated 150 hours. Another eCore demonstrator is scheduled to run next year.

GE Aviation, an operating unit of GE (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of jet, turboprop and turboshaft engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. GE Aviation has a global service network to support these offerings.