The CFM56-5B is a high-reliability, two-shaft turbofan engine co-developed by CFM International (a 50/50 JV of Safran & GE Aerospace), certified in 1996 and optimized for the Airbus A320 family (A318-A321), being the only engine powering all variants with a single bill of materials. It delivers 22,000–33,000 lbf (97–147 kN) thrust, featuring a 4-stage low-pressure compressor, double annular combustor (DAC) cutting NOₓ emissions by up to 45%, and FADEC for precise control.

With a bypass ratio up to 6, overall pressure ratio 25.2:1, it operates stably with a 0.002 in-flight shutdown rate. Weighing 1,951 kg, 2,600 mm long, it offers low maintenance costs and long on-wing life, complying with ICAO emissions standards. It remains a staple for narrow-body fleets, valued for reliability and cost-efficiency in commercial aviation.