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DIMOR Group’s $12M Investment in Historic Aircraft Manufacturing

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DIMOR Group’s $12M Investment in Historic Aircraft Manufacturing

The DIMOR Group’s $12 million investment in expanding historic aircraft manufacturing in Battle Creek, Michigan, marks a significant milestone in the preservation and revival of aviation history. This expansion not only highlights the region’s rich aviation heritage but also aligns with the growing global interest in vintage and historically significant aircraft. By investing in the WACO Aircraft Cooperation’s campus, DIMOR Group is ensuring that the legacy of early 20th-century aviation pioneers continues to inspire future generations.

This project is more than just a financial investment; it is a commitment to preserving the “golden age of aviation.” The WACO biplane, first manufactured between 1919 and 1947, and the Junkers plane, introduced in 1915, are iconic symbols of this era. DIMOR Group’s initiative to build a 45,000 square foot JUNKERS Aircraft factory on the WACO campus is a testament to their dedication to historical accuracy and modern engineering. This expansion will bring the total campus size to 150,000 square feet, creating a hub for aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Reviving Aviation History

The WACO Aircraft Corporation has a storied history, with its biplanes being a significant part of the early aviation industry. The new JUNKERS Aircraft factory will complement this legacy by producing aircraft that pay homage to Hugo Junkers, a pioneering figure in aviation. These planes are not mass-produced on assembly lines but are handcrafted to their historical glory, incorporating modern aviation specifications and engineering. This meticulous approach ensures that each aircraft is a true representation of its historical counterpart while meeting contemporary safety and performance standards.

DIMOR Group’s CEO, Sergio Barreto, emphasized the company’s mission to spread the passion for aviating in its purest form. “With this substantial investment from our founder Dieter Morszeck, JUNKERS Aircraft in the United States is extremely excited to expand our footprint in Southwest Michigan,” Barreto said. This expansion is not just about building and selling aircraft; it is about reigniting the passion for aviation and preserving its rich history.

“We’re in the business of building and selling aircraft, but at our core, the mission really is to spread the passion for aviating in its purest form.” – Sergio Barreto, CEO of DIMOR Group



Economic and Workforce Impact

The $12 million investment is expected to have a significant economic impact on the Battle Creek region. The project is anticipated to create 40 new jobs over the next five years, providing employment opportunities and boosting the local economy. DIMOR Group has partnered with Owen-Ames-Kimball Co for the construction of the new factory and is collaborating with the Regional Manufacturing Technology Center at Kellogg Community College to offer skills training and workforce development programs. This initiative ensures that the local workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to support the expanded manufacturing operations.

In addition to job creation, the expansion will enhance the WACO campus’s capabilities. The new factory will feature state-of-the-art machinery, assembly fixtures, and new tooling, enabling increased metal forming and advanced aircraft production. The campus also houses CENTENNIAL Aircraft Services, a full-service Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) that offers sales, pilot amenities, and general aircraft services such as maintenance and fueling. This comprehensive approach ensures that the campus remains a vital hub for aviation activities.

The DIMOR Group’s investment is a strategic move that aligns with broader industry trends. The aerospace manufacturing sector is increasingly adopting new technologies such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), digitalization, and smart systems. These advancements are driving efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in aircraft production. By integrating these technologies into their operations, DIMOR Group is positioning itself as a leader in the revival of historic aircraft manufacturing while embracing modern advancements.

Conclusion

The DIMOR Group’s $12 million investment in expanding historic aircraft manufacturing in Battle Creek is a significant step towards preserving aviation history and promoting the passion for flying. By reviving the production of iconic aircraft like the WACO biplane and the Junkers plane, DIMOR Group is ensuring that the legacy of early aviation pioneers continues to inspire future generations. This project not only highlights the region’s rich aviation heritage but also contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and fostering workforce development.

Looking ahead, the expansion aligns with broader industry trends towards technological advancements and sustainability. As the aerospace manufacturing sector continues to evolve, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in shaping a smarter, cleaner, and more customer-focused industry. The DIMOR Group’s commitment to preserving aviation history while embracing modern engineering and technology sets a precedent for future projects in the field. This investment is a testament to the enduring appeal of historic aircraft and the importance of keeping their legacy alive.

FAQ

Question: What is the significance of the DIMOR Group’s investment in Battle Creek?
Answer: The investment aims to expand historic aircraft manufacturing, preserve aviation history, and boost the local economy by creating jobs and fostering workforce development.

Question: What types of aircraft will be produced at the new factory?
Answer: The factory will produce JUNKERS Aircraft, which pay homage to the legacy of Hugo Junkers, alongside the existing WACO biplanes.

Question: How will the expansion impact the local workforce?
Answer: The project is expected to create 40 new jobs over five years, with additional skills training provided through partnerships with local educational institutions.

Sources: ARC West Michigan, NMGAerospace, CapTechU, FOX 17 Online, ITONICS

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MRO & Manufacturing

ITP Aero Expands Repair Services for Pratt & Whitney GTF Engines

ITP Aero signs a five-year deal with Pratt & Whitney to provide advanced repairs for PW1500G and PW1900G engines at its Madrid facility starting in 2027.

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This article is based on an official press release from ITP Aero.

ITP Aero has announced a new long-term agreement with Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, to expand its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities for the Geared Turbofan (GTF) engine family. The five-year contracts focuses on providing complex component repair services for the Stator Assembly, Turbine Intermediate Case (TIC) Vane Pack on the PW1500G and PW1900G engines.

This expansion solidifies ITP Aero’s position within the global aerospace supply chain and the Pratt & Whitney GTF MRO network. According to the company’s press release, ITP Aero is one of the few companies globally equipped to perform these advanced repairs, which are expected to be fully industrialized to meet peak demand anticipated between 2026 and 2028.

The agreement builds upon ITP Aero’s existing role as a Risk and Revenue Sharing Partner (RRSP) in the GTF program, marking a significant step in the company’s lifecycle support for the engine family.

Expanding MRO Capabilities in Madrid

The advanced repair services will be integrated into ITP Aero’s broader MRO strategy. The company stated that its Ajalvir facility, located in Madrid, will serve as the hub for these operations. The facility is slated to provide full MRO services and testing capabilities for both the PW1500G and PW1900G engines.

First inductions at the Ajalvir site are planned for early 2027. This timeline aligns with the broader industry need for increased maintenance capacity as the in-service fleet of GTF engines continues to grow and mature. ITP Aero officially joined Pratt & Whitney’s global GTF MRO Network in June 2025, paving the way for this expanded scope of work.

Strengthening the GTF Partnership

ITP Aero’s involvement with the GTF engine family extends beyond maintenance and repair. In January 2026, the company achieved a manufacturing milestone by delivering its first combustor for the PW1500G and PW1900G engines. The addition of the TIC Vane Pack repair contract bridges the gap between the company’s manufacturing activities and its aftermarket service offerings.

The integration of complex component repair capabilities is designed to support the operational reliability of the in-service fleet. Company leadership emphasized the strategic importance of this dual role in both producing and maintaining critical engine components.

“Building on our role as an RRSP and our existing aftermarket services, we are adding complex component repair capability… to support the in‑service fleet.”

, Alan Jones, Executive Vice President of MRO at ITP Aero, in a company press release.

AirPro News analysis

The aerospace industry is currently facing significant demand for engine maintenance, particularly for new-generation powerplants like the Pratt & Whitney GTF. By securing this five-year contract, ITP Aero is positioning itself to capture a critical segment of the aftermarket revenue stream. The specific focus on the PW1500G and the PW1900G highlights the growing need for specialized repair capacity for modern commercial-aircraft engines.

Furthermore, the timeline for industrializing these repairs ahead of the 2026 to 2028 peak demand window suggests a proactive approach to supply-chain and maintenance bottlenecks that have challenged the aviation sector in recent years. We view this integration of manufacturing and MRO services as a stabilizing factor for the broader GTF operational ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engines are covered under the new ITP Aero and Pratt & Whitney agreement?

The five-year contract covers complex component repair services for the PW1500G and PW1900G engines, which are part of the Pratt & Whitney GTF family.

What specific component will ITP Aero repair?

According to the press release, ITP Aero will provide repair services for the Stator Assembly, Turbine Intermediate Case (TIC) Vane Pack.

Where will the MRO services take place?

The full MRO services and testing for these engines will be conducted at ITP Aero’s Ajalvir facility in Madrid, with first inductions planned for early 2027.

Sources

Photo Credit: ITP Aero

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MRO & Manufacturing

Eaton Expands Aerospace Service Agreement with Air Support in EMEA

Eaton broadens its partnership with Air Support to enhance localized repair services for engine fuel components across the EMEA region.

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This article is based on an official press release from Eaton.

Eaton Expands Aerospace Service Agreement with Air Support in EMEA

Intelligent power management company Eaton has officially announced the expansion of its authorized service center agreement with France-based maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider Air Support. According to a company press release, the expanded partnership reinforces Eaton’s strategy to deliver localized repair solutions and customer-centric aftermarket support across the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region.

Building on an initial collaboration established in 2025, Air Support will now provide localized repair and overhaul services for a broader range of engine fuel system components. The agreement is designed to make it more cost-effective for aviation customers to access high-quality, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) repairs closer to where their aircraft operate.

By expanding these regional capabilities, Eaton and Air Support aim to significantly reduce turnaround times (TAT) and freight costs for airlines. Furthermore, the localized service delivery model supports broader aviation sustainability goals by cutting down on the transportation-related carbon emissions typically associated with shipping heavy engine components to distant repair facilities.

Expanded Repair Capabilities and OEM Standards

Under the newly expanded agreement, Air Support retains its status as Eaton’s first and primary authorized aerospace service center in the EMEA region. The press release notes that the MRO provider is now officially authorized to provide repair and overhaul services for several critical engine fuel system components.

Specifically, the expanded scope includes the CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B main engine fuel pumps, the CF34-8 and CF34-10 engine fuel pumps, and the CFM56-5B gear motor. To ensure repairs meet strict factory standards, the agreement grants Air Support direct access to Eaton’s OEM repair protocols, the latest technical documentation, and a consistent supply of approved Eaton spare parts.

Critical Aircraft Applications

Supplementary industry research highlights the widespread operational footprint of the components covered under this agreement. The CFM56-5B is the primary engine option for the Airbus A320ceo family, while the CFM56-7B serves as the exclusive powerplant for the Boeing 737 Next Generation (NG) series.

Additionally, the CF34 engine family is a staple in regional aviation. The CF34-8 powers the Bombardier CRJ700/900/1000 series and the Embraer E170/175 regional jets, while the higher-thrust CF34-10 variant is utilized on the Embraer E190/195, the Embraer Lineage 1000, and the COMAC ARJ21. By targeting these specific engine platforms, the Eaton and Air Support partnership addresses the maintenance needs of some of the most heavily utilized commercial and regional aircraft fleets in the world.

Strategic Partnership and Industry Impact

The relationship between the two companies was formalized in April 2025 at the MRO Americas event in Atlanta, initially focusing on the CFM56-7B engine fuel pump. Since then, the collaboration has proven successful enough to warrant a rapid expansion of scope.

Eaton, a global entity that reported $27.4 billion in revenue in 2025, operates a vast network of repair stations worldwide. Partnering with Air Support, a leading independent MRO facility founded in 1992, allows Eaton to leverage regional expertise. According to industry data, Air Support generated $112 million in revenue in 2025, repairing over 15,000 engine components annually for more than 200 customers across 40 countries. The French facility holds PART-145 certifications from major civil aviation authorities, including EASA, the FAA, CAAC, and the CAA.

Executives from both companies emphasized the operational benefits of the expanded tie-up in the official press release.

“Our decision to expand this agreement reflects the results Air Support has delivered for our customers since the collaboration began. By expanding local repair capabilities in the region, we are helping customers reduce turnaround time and freight costs while maintaining the quality, reliability and technical standards they expect from Eaton.”

— Matt Norman, Vice President of Aftermarket and Commercial Services, Eaton’s Aerospace Group

“We are proud to continue growing our relationship with Eaton and honored by the trust reflected in this expanded agreement. The addition of new repair capabilities enables us to further support customers across EMEA with reliable, responsive service aligned with OEM standards.”

— Sabine Tertre, CEO, Air Support

AirPro News analysis

We observe that this expanded agreement underscores a growing and vital trend within the commercial aviation aftermarket: the strategic alignment of major OEMs with agile, independent MRO providers. As global supply chains remain under pressure, OEMs like Eaton are increasingly recognizing the value of decentralizing their repair networks.

By empowering established regional players like Air Support, which industry data notes maintains an impressive turnaround time of 20 days and an on-time delivery rate above 98%, OEMs can protect their brand reputation for reliability without having to build new, capital-intensive facilities from scratch. For airlines, this translates directly to minimized aircraft downtime, which is a primary driver of profitability. Furthermore, the environmental benefits of localized MRO services cannot be overstated; reducing the logistical footprint of heavy aircraft parts is a practical, immediate step toward the industry’s broader carbon-reduction targets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What new components are covered under the expanded Eaton and Air Support agreement?

The expanded agreement authorizes Air Support to repair and overhaul the CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B main engine fuel pumps, the CF34-8 and CF34-10 engine fuel pumps, and the CFM56-5B gear motor.

Why is localized MRO service important for airlines?

Localized Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services allow airlines to repair parts closer to where their aircraft operate. This significantly reduces freight costs, cuts down on transportation-related carbon emissions, and shortens turnaround times (TAT), thereby minimizing costly aircraft downtime.

What certifications does Air Support hold?

Based in France, Air Support holds PART-145 certifications from several major civil aviation authorities, including the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).


Sources: Eaton Press Release (Business Wire)

Photo Credit: Eaton

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MRO & Manufacturing

Joramco Achieves First Fully Paperless MRO in MENA Region

Joramco becomes the first MENA MRO to operate fully paperless with EASA-approved digital workflows, AI integration, and iPad use.

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This article is based on an official press release from Joramco.

On April 21, 2026, Amman-based maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider Joramco announced a major operational milestone, becoming the first MRO in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to achieve a fully paperless operation. According to the company’s press release, this comprehensive digital transformation is backed by full European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approval, ensuring that all new digital workflows meet strict international aviation safety and quality standards.

The transition replaces traditional paper-based task cards and documentation with a modernized, digital-first approach on the hangar floor. By integrating artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and secure digital workflows, Joramco aims to drastically improve operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and aircraft turnaround times.

We note that this development positions the Jordan-based facility as a highly competitive, technologically advanced hub for global airline outsourcing, capable of competing with larger, manufacturer-backed service providers across Europe and Asia.

Transitioning to a Digital Hangar Floor

Technology and Implementation

To execute this transition, Joramco collaborated with EmpowerMX, a leading aviation maintenance software provider. According to the official announcement, technicians on the hangar floor are now equipped with Apple iPads in place of traditional paper task cards. This hardware shift is supported by EASA-compliant biometric and secure digital sign-offs, ensuring that every maintenance action is securely recorded and authenticated.

Furthermore, the new system embeds AI and machine learning to run automated checks during the completion of paperwork. The company states that this technological integration is designed to eliminate common human errors, such as missing stamps or signatures, which can otherwise delay the release of an aircraft.

Operational Benefits

The shift to a paperless system unlocks several immediate operational advantages for the MRO provider. The press release highlights that the digital infrastructure allows for real-time tracking of aircraft status and instant access to critical maintenance documentation. Additionally, the system supports live manhour booking and progressive contract settlement for non-routine work, streamlining data sharing across various internal departments and improving overall transparency for airline clients.

Leadership and Strategic Growth

Executive Perspectives

The digitalization effort aligns with a broader push for operational excellence under Joramco’s current leadership. Adam Voss, who took over as Chief Executive Officer in September 2025, emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative.

“The Paperless Project is defining a new milestone in our journey to set new standards for the MRO industry. This transformation strengthens Joramco’s competitive edge and reinforces our commitment to exceeding client expectations.”

Adam Voss, Chief Executive Officer of Joramco, via the company’s press release.

The groundwork for this milestone has been in progress for some time. Speaking at the PAM MENA conference in Dubai in February 2026, Shakespear Nyamande, Head of Joramco’s Paperless Digitalisation Project, highlighted that harnessing data, automation, and AI is critical to minimizing errors and accelerating turnaround times.

Joramco’s Ongoing Expansion

Established in 1963 and operating out of a free-zone area at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Joramco employs approximately 1,500 technicians and engineers. Since 2016, the company has served as the engineering arm of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE). The facility services Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer fleets, handling everything from routine line maintenance to complex heavy maintenance “D-checks.”

The paperless initiative arrives during a period of aggressive physical expansion for the company. In 2025, Joramco opened “Hangar 7,” a $100 million investment that expanded its capacity to 22 parallel lines of maintenance, capable of housing widebody aircraft such as the Airbus A380. According to company timelines, further expansions are underway, including Hangar 8 scheduled for completion in 2026, and a dedicated paint facility, Hangar 9, slated for 2028.

Industry Context and Broader Significance

AirPro News analysis

We observe that the global aviation industry is currently navigating a severe shortage of widebody maintenance slots alongside persistent supply chain bottlenecks. Because Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) delivery delays have forced airlines to operate older aircraft for longer periods, the global demand for heavy maintenance and cabin refurbishments has surged.

Joramco’s digital transformation directly addresses these industry-wide pain points. By utilizing AI and biometric sign-offs to accelerate turnaround times, the facility can service more aircraft efficiently, helping to alleviate the MRO capacity crunch. Furthermore, the aviation sector is under immense pressure to modernize and reduce its environmental footprint. Transitioning to a paperless system not only conserves physical resources but also optimizes labor hours and mitigates the operational risks inherently associated with manual documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be a paperless MRO?

A paperless Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility replaces physical task cards, manuals, and paper sign-offs with digital devices (like iPads) and secure software. This allows technicians to access manuals, log hours, and sign off on maintenance tasks digitally, improving accuracy and speed.

Who provided the software for Joramco’s digital transition?

Joramco partnered with EmpowerMX, a prominent aviation maintenance software provider, to implement its digital workflows and AI-driven automated checks.

Is Joramco’s paperless system regulatory approved?

Yes. According to the company, the fully paperless operation has received full approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), ensuring all digital processes and biometric sign-offs meet international aviation safety standards.


Sources: Joramco Press Release

Photo Credit: Joramco

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