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Pratt & Whitney has unveiled plans for a major production expansion at its manufacturing site in Columbus, Georgia. Announced on February 24, 2026, the initiative involves a $200 million capital investment aimed at increasing output for both commercial and defense engine programs. The project reflects growing demand across several key platforms. It also highlights the company’s continued focus on strengthening domestic industrial capacity.
Columbus has become one of Pratt & Whitney’s most strategically important locations in recent decades. The site combines advanced manufacturing with engine maintenance operations, serving customers worldwide. This latest investment builds on earlier facility upgrades completed at the same campus. The following sections outline what is being added, why it matters, and how it fits into broader aerospace trends.
Pratt & Whitney Expands Columbus Manufacturing With $200 Million Investment
As part of the expansion, Pratt & Whitney will install its seventh isothermal forging press at its Columbus Forge operation. Once completed, the equipment is expected to significantly raise production volumes for high-value engine components. These parts are essential to the assembly of both turbine and compressor sections. The addition is expected to increase the output of parts, such as the rotating compressor and turbine disks, by up to 30% to support programs such as the GTF and F135, among others. The isothermal forging press is expected to become operational in 2028.
The increased forging capability will likely support a range of engine programs currently in active production. By expanding in-house capacity, the company aims to reduce pressure on external suppliers while improving manufacturing flexibility. The move also positions the site to handle future increases in engine demand. In practical terms, this means faster throughput for critical hardware. Pratt & Whitney President Shane Eddy said:
“Since 2008, we have invested more than $1 billion to continue expanding the footprint and capabilities of our Columbus facility. This latest investment will increase output of critical parts for our growing military and commercial engine programs and underscores our ongoing commitment to ramp industrial capacity to support our customers.”
New Forging Capacity Aims To Support Rising Commercial And Military Engine Demand
The forging expansion follows a separate modernization effort completed at the Columbus Engine Center. That project expanded floor space and introduced advanced tooling designed to support next-generation engine maintenance. Together, the investments reflect a coordinated approach to production and lifecycle support. They also align with broader industry shifts toward digital and automated manufacturing.
Engines maintained at the Columbus campus power aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo and Airbus A220. The site also supports military fleets operated by the US and allied nations. Having forging, assembly, and overhaul functions located together improves efficiency across programs. This model is increasingly common at large aerospace hubs.
Over the years, Pratt & Whitney has steadily expanded its footprint in Columbus through repeated capital investments. What began as a smaller manufacturing operation has evolved into a multifunctional aerospace center employing thousands of workers. Local and state partnerships have played a key role in that transformation. The newest project continues this long-term growth trajectory.
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Columbus Facility Strengthens Role In Pratt & Whitney’s Long-Term Production Strategy
Demand for Pratt & Whitney’s geared turbofan engines continues to rise as airlines prioritize fuel efficiency. Hundreds of operators around the world now rely on the engine family for short- and medium-haul routes. As delivery numbers climb, so does the need for parts production and overhaul capacity. The Columbus expansion directly addresses that requirement.
On the defense side, the facility supports production tied to the F-35 Lightning II program. That aircraft remains central to long-term defense planning among NATO and partner nations. Engine deliveries are expected to continue well into the 2030s. Manufacturing investments today are designed to sustain that output over time.
Taken together, the Columbus projects illustrate how aerospace manufacturers are investing ahead of demand rather than reacting to shortages. With strong commercial backlogs and stable military programs, capacity planning has become a competitive advantage. For Pratt & Whitney, Columbus is positioned to remain a cornerstone of that strategy for years to come.
