Project Overview
Client: Major Asian Carrier
Asset: LEAP-1A Aircraft Engine (ESN 63606)
Route: France to Hong Kong
Service Scope: Full project management and airfreight coordination
ETA Logistics was appointed to manage the complete airfreight movement of a LEAP-1A engine from France to Hong Kong. This high-value, time-critical shipment required specialist handling, OEM-compliant securement, and seamless coordination across multiple international stakeholders. Our team in Hong Kong took the lead and oversaw every stage of the operation, ensuring the engine travelled safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with aviation standards.
The Challenge
- Safely transporting a high-value LEAP-1A engine across a long intercontinental route via airfreight, requiring strict adherence to OEM handling standards.
- Meeting CFM-mandated requirements for shrink-wrapping, labelling, and securement on a certified engine transport cradle.
- Managing complex airport procedures at both the origin and destination, including export readiness, cargo acceptance, and ground-handling coordination.
- Providing detailed photographic documentation and real-time visibility at every stage of the movement to ensure full transparency for the client.
- Executing within tight operational timelines to minimise aircraft downtime and enable immediate setup upon arrival in Hong Kong.
Our Solution
ETA Logistics delivered full end-to-end project management for this intercontinental LEAP-1A engine movement, with our Hong Kong operations team coordinating every stage of the process:
- Close coordination with the French maintenance facility to ensure correct engine preparation, protective shrink-wrapping, and compliance with CFM handling standards.
- Arrangement of specialist road transport to the departure airport, using a certified engine cradle and vetted carrier experienced in high-value aerospace movements.
- Comprehensive management of all airfreight requirements, including export documentation, customs clearance, and cargo booking aligned with the client’s operational timeline.
- On-site supervision during loading in France, followed by receiving support, customs clearance, and final setup assistance upon arrival in Hong Kong.
- Continuous communication and detailed photographic reporting, providing full visibility of securement, condition, and handling throughout the entire journey.
Execution Highlights
The LEAP-1A engine underwent full preparation at the French maintenance facility. The unit was professionally shrink-wrapped, fitted with clear orientation labels (FWD/AFT, TOP/BOTTOM), and mounted securely onto a purpose-built transport cradle in accordance with CFM handling requirements. All preparation steps were verified and documented before release for airfreight.
- Engine fully protected and secured on the specialised cradle within the facility yard, confirming correct wrapping and restraint.
- Side-view inspection showing the complete assembly, including lifting points, cradle interface, and handling equipment positioned for transfer.
- Rear-view confirmation of correct labelling, alignment, and securement prior to departure for the airport.
Results
- On-time preparation and departure from France, aligned with the client’s operational schedule.
- Smooth customs clearance and delivery in Hong Kong, with no delays or administrative issues.
- Successful final setup of the LEAP-1A engine at the destination facility, ready for immediate use.
- Zero damage or incidents across the entire intercontinental journey.
- Full compliance with CFM handling guidelines and international air cargo regulations.
- Complete visibility for the client, supported by continuous updates and detailed photographic evidence at every milestone.
