SkyWest's New E175 Fleet to Use GE CF34 8E Engines

DALLAS — SkyWest (OO) has inked a new deal with GE Aerospace to supply CF34 8E engines and spare parts to power 60 new Embraer E175 regional jets. This agreement marks the latest commitment in a long-standing partnership that began in 1994, when the airline installed the CF34-3B engine on its CRJ200s.

The CF34 family has been the backbone of OO's fleet, with more than 1,200 engines in service, including the CF34-3 B, 8C, and the new 8E variants. Reiterating its reputation for dependability, GE Aerospace reports a remarkable dispatch reliability of 99.97% over a 12-month period.

Fleet Modernization, Sustainability

According to SkyWest's Chief Commercial Officer Wade Steel, the CF34 is "the workhorse of regional air travel." With strong operational commonality, the airline's fleet renewal strategy is maintained with the new engine order. 

Crucially, in line with industry-wide initiatives to lower carbon emissions, all CF34 engines are authorized for use with SAF (sustainable aviation fuel) blends.

Market Impact, Strategic Partnership

Russell Stokes, president of GE Commercial Engines & Services, emphasized the partnership's long-term character. The 60-engine spare parts agreement demonstrates both SkyWest's growth and GE's commitment to supporting regional carriers. 

Operating out of nearly 500 aircraft and reaching 265 North American destinations, OO carried 42 million passengers in 2024 under code-share agreements with United Airlines (UA), Delta Air Lines (DL), American Airlines (AA), and Alaska Airlines (AS).

In addition to supporting SkyWest's growing fleet of E175 aircraft, this engine purchase will improve the aircraft's efficiency, performance, and environmental compliance. GE's CF34 8E engines are expected to drive a new era of regional connectivity as OO continues its modernization.