TechnologyAirbus and CFM to test RISE propulsion technologies in Singapore
Airbus has signed an agreement with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore to carry out airport-based testing of next-generation propulsion technologies developed under the RISE program, which is being led by CFM International.
The memorandum of understanding brings together Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, CFM International, and Airbus to establish Singapore as a test environment for evaluating how new propulsion concepts could operate within existing airport infrastructure. The focus is on CFM’s Open Fan engine architecture, which is intended as a potential replacement for conventional turbofan engines on future narrowbody aircraft.
Under the agreement, the partners will assess the operational impact of Open Fan engines and other RISE-related technologies on airport activities, including ground handling, maintenance, safety procedures, and regulatory processes. The goal is to develop a readiness framework that could be used as a reference by aircraft manufacturers, airports, airlines, and regulators worldwide.
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As part of the cooperation, operational trials of RISE engine demonstrators are planned at Singapore Changi Airport or Seletar Airport. These trials are intended to validate procedures and assess the feasibility of integrating the new propulsion systems into routine airport operations.
The RISE program is a technology demonstration initiative launched by CFM to advance engine concepts aimed at reducing fuel consumption and emissions compared with current-generation engines. The Open Fan design differs from traditional turbofans by using an uncased fan configuration, which allows for a larger diameter and higher propulsive efficiency.
Airbus has said the work in Singapore will support its broader efforts to evaluate future propulsion systems against real-world operational requirements. For CFM, the agreement provides an opportunity to test how its technologies would interact with airport environments beyond laboratory and flight-test conditions.
No timeline was disclosed for when the airport trials would begin, and the agreement does not imply a commitment to any specific aircraft program.
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