MRO & Manufacturing
Turkish Airlines Rolls-Royce Launch Engine Hub in Türkiye
Turkish Airlines and Rolls-Royce partner to build a $700M aircraft engine maintenance facility in Türkiye, boosting exports and MRO leadership by 2027.
In a move set to reshape the aircraft maintenance landscape in the EMEA region, Turkish Airlines and Rolls-Royce have announced a strategic partnership to establish a state-of-the-art engine maintenance facility in Türkiye. With operations slated to begin in 2027, this joint venture is poised to become one of the largest Rolls-Royce authorized engine maintenance centers in Europe, focusing on servicing the Trent XWB-84, Trent XWB-97, and Trent 7000 engines, key components in Airbus A350 and A330neo aircraft.
This collaboration not only strengthens Turkish Technic’s capabilities but also underscores Türkiye’s growing ambitions to become a global aviation hub. Leveraging its geographic position and advanced infrastructure, the country is taking a bold step to claim a larger share of the estimated $124 billion global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) market projected by 2030.
Türkiye’s strategic location bridging Europe, Asia, and the Middle East has long made it a natural candidate for aviation leadership. The country’s investments in infrastructure, most notably the Istanbul Airport, one of the busiest in the world, have laid the groundwork for expansion into high-value aviation services. Turkish Airlines, with its vast network spanning over 340 destinations in more than 120 countries, is among the most globally connected airlines and a cornerstone of this vision.
By entering into a partnership with Rolls-Royce, Turkish Airlines is leveraging its subsidiary, Turkish Technic, to expand its engine maintenance capabilities. This move aligns with national goals to increase high-value-added exports and technical expertise in aviation, positioning Türkiye as a key player in the global MRO market.
The facility is expected to create employment for approximately 1,000 people and maintain up to 200 engines annually. Once operational, it will not only serve Turkish Airlines’ own fleet but also provide services to global clients, with an estimated 65% of its output aimed at export markets.
“This center, which will also support Turkish Airlines’ A350 fleet, reflects our confidence in Turkish Technic’s potential to become a global leader in engine maintenance,” Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace, Rolls-Royce According to projections, the facility could contribute an estimated $700 million annually to Türkiye’s economy through exports. This is a significant boost, particularly in a sector where high-tech services and skilled labor are in demand. Turkish Technic anticipates a substantial increase in annual revenue as a result of the new facility, further cementing its role as a regional leader in engine maintenance.
The global aircraft MRO market is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.7%, and Türkiye is strategically positioning itself to capture a meaningful share of this expansion. The partnership also supports Rolls-Royce’s broader strategy of decentralizing its maintenance operations to reduce turnaround times and improve service delivery across continents.
With the facility expected to remain operational until at least 2048, the long-term economic benefits are substantial. This includes not only direct revenue but also the development of a skilled labor force and ancillary industries that support aviation maintenance. Industry analysts have praised the move as both timely and strategically sound. John Moore, an aviation analyst at GlobalData, remarked, “Collaborations like the one between Turkish Airlines and Rolls-Royce are critical for regional MRO growth. Türkiye’s strategic location and investment in aviation infrastructure make it an ideal candidate to become a leading MRO hub.”
Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of Turkish Airlines, echoed this sentiment during the signing ceremony, emphasizing that the partnership would enhance Türkiye’s aviation ecosystem and strengthen operational capabilities. He highlighted the project as a cornerstone of the country’s long-term aviation strategy.
The deal also aligns with broader industry trends. As the aviation sector recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic and next-generation aircraft enter service, the demand for specialized engine maintenance is surging. This facility will be well-positioned to meet that demand, particularly for fuel-efficient engines like the Trent series, which are central to airlines’ sustainability goals.
“This collaboration with Rolls-Royce will not only strengthen our operational capabilities but also contribute to the growth of Türkiye’s aviation ecosystem,” Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman, Turkish Airlines One of the key advantages of this partnership is the localization of MRO services, a trend gaining traction across the aviation industry. By bringing maintenance capabilities closer to operational hubs, airlines can reduce downtime, lower logistics costs, and improve fleet reliability. For Rolls-Royce, this partnership extends its global service network and enhances support for its TotalCare customers in the region.
Localized MRO capabilities are particularly critical for wide-body aircraft, which require specialized tools and expertise. The new facility in Türkiye will be equipped to handle the complex needs of the Trent engine family, offering comprehensive services that meet international standards.
This model also provides a template for future collaborations between OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and airline-affiliated MRO providers, especially in emerging markets with strong infrastructure and workforce potential.
With aviation under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, the role of MRO facilities in supporting sustainable operations is more important than ever. The Trent engines serviced at the new center are known for their fuel efficiency and lower emissions, aligning with global efforts to make aviation more environmentally responsible.
By ensuring these engines are maintained at peak performance, the facility contributes indirectly to sustainability goals. Additionally, the partnership may pave the way for future innovations in engine diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and digital twin technologies, all of which are becoming integral to modern MRO operations. Türkiye’s emphasis on technological advancement in aviation maintenance also supports its broader industrial strategy, which includes digital transformation and the development of high-tech sectors.
The partnership between Turkish Airlines and Rolls-Royce marks a significant milestone in Türkiye’s journey to becoming a global aviation powerhouse. By establishing a world-class engine maintenance facility, both companies are addressing the growing demand for specialized MRO services while contributing to economic development and technological progress in the region.
Looking ahead, this collaboration could serve as a blueprint for similar ventures worldwide. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, strategic alliances like this one will be essential in meeting operational, economic, and environmental goals on a global scale.
What engines will the new facility service? When will the maintenance center become operational? How will this partnership benefit Türkiye? Why is Türkiye a strategic location for MRO services? Sources: Türkiye Today, Fortune Business Insights, GlobalData, Turkish Airlines Official Website, Rolls-Royce Official Website
Turkish Airlines and Rolls-Royce Unite to Establish Major Aircraft Engine Maintenance Hub in Türkiye
Strategic and Economic Significance
Türkiye’s Emergence as an Aviation Hub
Economic Impact and Export Potential
Expert Endorsements and Industry Trends
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
Localized Service, Global Reach
Sustainability and Technological Advancement
Conclusion
FAQ
The facility will service Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84, Trent XWB-97, and Trent 7000 engines, used in Airbus A350 and A330neo aircraft.
Operations are scheduled to begin in 2027, with the agreement lasting until 2048.
The facility is expected to contribute an estimated $700 million annually through exports, create around 1,000 jobs, and elevate Türkiye’s status in the global MRO market.
Its geographic position between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, combined with advanced infrastructure and a growing aviation sector, makes Türkiye an ideal hub for aircraft maintenance.
Photo Credit: TurkishAirlines
MRO & Manufacturing
Hartzell Propeller Opens Innovation Center with JobsOhio Grant
Hartzell Propeller launches a 150,000 sq ft Innovation Center in Ohio with $2M JobsOhio grant, focusing on carbon fiber and Advanced Air Mobility R&D.
This article is based on an official press release from Hartzell Propeller.
Hartzell Propeller has formally opened its new Innovation Center in Piqua, Ohio, supported by a $2 million grant from JobsOhio. The facility represents a significant expansion of the company’s headquarters and is designed to accelerate research and development in advanced manufacturing and aviation technology.
According to the company, the new center will serve as a hub for carbon fiber composite manufacturing and the development of next-generation propulsion systems, including those for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector. The opening ceremony, held on February 20, 2026, highlighted the company’s ongoing collaboration with state economic development programs to secure Ohio’s position in the aerospace industry.
The $2 million award was provided through the JobsOhio Research & Development Center Grant Program, an initiative aimed at fostering corporate R&D within the state. In its press release, Hartzell Propeller stated that the grant complements its own substantial capital commitment. The company has already invested $30 million in the facility and equipment, with plans to invest an additional $10 million over the next five years.
The Innovation Center is located at 1900 Covington Avenue, adjacent to Hartzell’s existing main facilities. The expansion adds more than 150,000 square feet to the company’s operational footprint. JJ Frigge, President of Hartzell Propeller, emphasized the scale of this upgrade in a statement:
“Purpose-built to support the next chapter of advanced propeller innovation, this facility more than quadruples our carbon fiber production footprint and reinforces our ‘Built on Honor’ commitment to quality, performance, and support.”
The new building will house several critical functions under one roof. According to Hartzell, these include:
A primary driver for the new center is the emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market. Hartzell Propeller noted that the facility will enable critical R&D for electric propulsion, citing its ongoing collaboration with Beta Technologies. In July 2025, Hartzell received FAA Part 35 Type Certification for a propeller designed specifically for electric aircraft, a milestone achieved through its work with Beta.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine attended the opening, framing the investment as a continuation of the state’s aviation legacy.
“The newest investment establishing Hartzell’s Innovation Center demonstrates how legacy suppliers are leading the charge in next-generation aviation and supporting Ohio’s position as a leader in aerospace innovation and advanced air mobility,” DeWine said.
JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef added that the decision to build in Piqua aligns with the state’s broader strategy, noting that Ohio has invested more than $1.2 billion in advanced aerospace manufacturing and infrastructure over the last five years. The establishment of the Hartzell Propeller Innovation Center signals a strategic pivot for the legacy manufacturer. By consolidating carbon fiber production and R&D in a dedicated 150,000-square-foot facility, Hartzell is effectively separating its advanced composite operations from traditional metal manufacturing. This distinction is crucial as the industry shifts toward electric and hybrid-electric propulsion, where weight savings and aerodynamic efficiency, primary benefits of carbon fiber, are paramount.
Furthermore, the involvement of JobsOhio highlights the competitive nature of the AAM supply chain. State governments are increasingly willing to subsidize R&D infrastructure to ensure that established aerospace hubs, like Ohio, retain their relevance as the market transitions away from conventional combustion engines. For Hartzell, the grant likely serves as both financial support and a validation of its long-term bet on the electric aviation sector.
What is the value of the grant awarded to Hartzell Propeller? Where is the new Innovation Center located? What activities will take place at the new facility?
Hartzell Propeller Opens Innovation Center with $2M JobsOhio Grant
Investment and Facility Expansion
Consolidating Operations
Focus on Advanced Air Mobility
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
JobsOhio awarded Hartzell Propeller a $2 million grant through its Research & Development Center Grant Program.
The center is located at 1900 Covington Avenue in Piqua, Ohio, adjacent to the company’s main headquarters.
The center will house all carbon fiber blade production, WhirlWind Propellers manufacturing, the Hartzell Service Center, and R&D operations focused on Advanced Air Mobility.
Sources
Photo Credit: Hartzell Propeller
MRO & Manufacturing
GE Aerospace Expands Manufacturing and Supply Chain in India
GE Aerospace invests $44 million in Pune facility and partners with 2,200+ suppliers to build a global aerospace supply chain hub in India.
This article is based on an official press release from GE Aerospace and additional industry data.
GE Aerospace is aggressively expanding its manufacturing footprint in India, signaling a strategic shift that positions the nation not merely as a consumer market but as a critical node in the global aerospace supply chain. According to an official company release, the engine manufacturer has cultivated a network of over 2,200 suppliers in the region, supported by significant capital investments in its Pune multi-modal facility.
The expansion comes as the aviation industry seeks to diversify supply lines and increase production capacity for next-generation engines. Leading this transition on the ground are industry veterans like Srinivasan Dwarakanath, Director General of the Aerospace India Association (AIA), who characterizes the current environment as a pivotal “inflection point” for Indian manufacturing.
Historically known for its strength in software and engineering services, India is now moving rapidly into complex hardware manufacturing. GE Aerospace reports that its sourcing from India has grown substantially, driven by a tiered supply chain that includes both massive conglomerates and specialized Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
At the heart of this strategy is GE’s multi-modal facility in Pune. In November 2025, the company announced a $14 million expansion of the site, bringing the total investment to $44 million over two years. This facility is unique within GE’s global network, capable of producing diverse components for different business units under one roof.
GE Aerospace has established deep partnerships with Indian manufacturers to produce critical components for its most popular engine programs, including the LEAP engine used in the Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo. The supply chain is anchored by several key players:
A long-standing partner, TASL manufactures compressor casings, high-pressure turbine components, and combustion chambers. In late 2022, GE extended a contract with TASL valued at over $1 billion. The company operates a Centre of Excellence in Hyderabad specifically dedicated to aero-engine components.
Representing the specialized MSME sector, Raghu Vamsi supplies precision connectors, fuel nozzles, and valve actuators. The company recently launched a ₹300 crore ($36 million) integrated facility in Hyderabad to expand capacity for global OEMs.
“It’s not just about growth but about evolving together. There’s a degree of complexity and capability that we have traversed as a GE Aerospace partner.”
, Preeti Vamsi, Director, Raghu Vamsi
Godrej manufactures complex assemblies, including ventilation systems for LEAP engines. In late 2025, the company secured a contract with Safran,GE’s partner in CFM International,for titanium-based engine parts, further integrating into the global supply web.
Srinivasan Dwarakanath, formerly the CEO of Airbus India Operations and now a key industry advocate, notes that the interest from global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) is unprecedented. He predicts that India’s aerospace exports could grow tenfold to $20 billion annually within the next decade.
“We are at an inflection point… I have not ever seen so much inbound interest for manufacturing from global OEMs. India, with its sophisticated technological foundation and manpower, is ready for aerospace.”
, Srinivasan Dwarakanath, Director General, Aerospace India Association
This growth aligns with the Indian government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, which push for the localization of defense and aerospace production. The Aerospace India Association is currently working to localize the sourcing of raw materials, such as titanium and steel, to further secure the supply chain.
The aggressive expansion of GE Aerospace in India reflects a broader “China Plus One” strategy adopted by major Western industrial firms. By diversifying manufacturing bases, companies aim to insulate themselves from geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions that have plagued the industry in recent years.
However, the transition from low-value components to critical rotating parts,like those produced by TASL,requires rigorous quality control and certification processes. GE’s investment in training 5,000 associates suggests a long-term commitment to bridging the skills gap, ensuring that Indian manufacturing meets the exacting standards of global aviation regulators. If successful, this ecosystem could serve as a blueprint for other aerospace giants looking to leverage India’s industrial capacity.
What is the significance of the Pune facility? Who are the major suppliers for GE in India? How much has GE invested in the Pune facility recently?
GE Aerospace Accelerates India Strategy: Building a Global Supply Chain Hub
From Engineering Services to High-Value Manufacturing
Key Infrastructure Investments
The Supplier Ecosystem
Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL)
Raghu Vamsi
Godrej Aerospace
Industry Leadership and Strategic Context
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The Pune multi-modal facility is GE’s first factory globally capable of producing products for multiple business units in one location. It exports components for major engine programs like the GEnx and LEAP.
Key suppliers include Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), Raghu Vamsi, Godrej Aerospace, Mahindra Aerostructures, and Belcan.
GE Aerospace announced a $14 million expansion in November 2025, bringing the total investment in the site to $44 million over two years.
Sources
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
MRO & Manufacturing
Gama Aviation Gains EASA Part 147 Approval for King Air Training
Gama Aviation receives EASA Part 147 approval to provide King Air 200 and 300 series maintenance training from UK facilities in Bournemouth and Glasgow.
This article is based on an official press release from Gama Aviation.
Gama Aviation has announced a significant expansion of its engineering training capabilities after receiving European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part 147 approval. According to the company’s official statement, this certification authorizes Gama Aviation to deliver type training for the Beechcraft King Air 200 and 300 series aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 engines.
The approval allows the aviation services company to provide both theoretical and practical training, conduct examinations, and issue certificates of recognition. These services will support multiple engineering license pathways, specifically B1 (Mechanical), B2 (Avionics), and Type C (Base Maintenance). To maximize accessibility for operators and engineers across the United Kingdom, the company confirmed that training will be delivered from its facilities in both Bournemouth and Glasgow.
This regulatory milestone represents a strategic move to bring critical training infrastructure in-house. By securing Part 147 approval, Gama Aviation aims to support the progression of engineering licenses and ensure that operators can maintain resilient technical teams. The company emphasized that this development aligns with its broader Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) strategy.
Paul Kinch, Managing Director of MRO at Gama Aviation, highlighted the importance of the King Air platform in a statement included in the press release:
“This approval is another important step in the continued development of our maintenance training capability. King Air aircraft remain a cornerstone of many corporate and special mission fleets, and it is essential that operators have access to trusted, high-quality training to support safe and efficient operations.”
Kinch further noted that expanding the Part 147 scope allows the company to invest in the expertise required for current operations while anticipating future fleet requirements.
The training programs are designed to combine classroom learning with hands-on practical experience. Olusegun Johnson, Training Manager, Part 147 at Gama Aviation, stated that the organization’s focus is on preparing engineers for the “realities of the maintenance environment.”
“By offering training in both Bournemouth and Glasgow, we are making it easier for customers to access approved courses while maintaining the quality, consistency and regulatory compliance they expect from Gama Aviation.”
While the official press release focuses on the regulatory approval, AirPro News notes that this development occurs against the backdrop of a wider industry engineering shortage and specific operational commitments held by Gama Aviation. The decision to establish training capabilities in Glasgow is likely strategically aligned with Gama Aviation’s long-standing relationship with the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS). According to industry records, Gama Aviation has supported the SAS for over 30 years. In July 2024, the company signed a deal to purchase three new King Air 360C aircraft to support this contract. By localizing training in Glasgow, Gama Aviation effectively insulates its critical air ambulance operations from external labor shortages, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified engineers to maintain these life-saving aircraft.
The aviation sector is currently navigating a severe workforce shortage, with a significant portion of the licensed engineering population nearing retirement. Furthermore, regulatory complexities following Brexit have complicated the flow of licensed engineers between the UK and the EU. By securing EASA approval to train B1, B2, and Type C engineers internally, Gama Aviation is not only reducing its reliance on third-party providers like FlightSafety International or CAE but also potentially creating a new revenue stream by offering these high-demand courses to external operators.
The Beechcraft King Air series remains the most popular business turboprop globally, with over 7,000 units delivered and approximately 825 operating within the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region. These aircraft are frequently utilized for special missions, including surveillance and air ambulance services, due to their versatility and short-runway performance.
Gama Aviation’s entry into the training market places it alongside other established providers. Competitors such as 2Excel Engineering have also recently sought to bolster domestic training capabilities, highlighting the high demand for “home-grown” UK-based training solutions for this ubiquitous airframe.
Gama Aviation Secures EASA Part 147 Approval for King Air Maintenance Training
Strengthening Technical Infrastructure
Practical Training Focus
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Context and Industry Impact
Supporting Critical Services
Addressing the Engineering Skills Gap
Market Landscape
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Gama Aviation
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