Abstract: A gas turbine engine system having improved thermal efficiency, which comprises: (1) an inlet air stream; and (2) a dry low emissions combustor assembly having an air inlet for receiving the inlet air stream, at least one bleed air port and an air outlet for discharging at least a portion of the received air from the inlet air stream. This system includes a source of warmer air capable of raising the ambient temperature of the inlet air stream received by the air inlet of the dry low emissions combustor assembly while operating at a partial load until the system reaches a new equilibrium state having improved thermal efficiency. Also disclosed is a method for improving the thermal efficiency of the dry low emissions combustor assembly, which comprises the step of including a source of warmer air with the inlet air stream received by the air inlet of the dry low emissions combustor assembly while operating at a partial load until the system reaches a new equilibrium state having improved thermal efficiency.