MRO & Manufacturing
Asia Digital Engineering Gains EASA and FAA MRO Certifications
Malaysia’s ADE secures global aviation certifications, expands Kuala Lumpur facility, and positions for MRO market growth through digital innovation.
Asia-Pacific Digital Engineering (ADE), a subsidiary of Malaysia-based Capital A and a sister unit of low-cost airline group AirAsia, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving dual certifications from two of the world’s most stringent aviation regulatory bodies, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These certifications mark a pivotal moment in ADE’s evolution from a regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) provider to a globally recognized player in the aviation maintenance sector.
The EASA Maintenance Organisation Approval and the FAA Repair Station Certificate validate ADE’s compliance with rigorous safety, airworthiness, and operational standards. These endorsements not only enable ADE to work on aircraft registered in Europe and the US but also elevate its credibility among international carriers, leasing companies, and aviation stakeholders. The certifications come at a time when the global MRO industry is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by technological innovation and increasing demand for efficient and compliant maintenance services.
This development is particularly significant for Malaysia and the broader Asia-Pacific region, which is poised to become the largest aviation market by 2030. As regional aviation expands, local MRO providers like ADE are stepping up to meet international standards and serve a global clientele.
With EASA and FAA certifications in hand, ADE now gains access to a broader international market. These certifications are considered gold standards in the aviation maintenance industry, enabling ADE to service aircraft registered in the EU and US, two of the largest aviation markets globally. This move significantly expands ADE’s potential customer base, which includes major airlines operating Boeing and Airbus fleets.
Previously focused on servicing AirAsia carriers within Southeast Asia, ADE can now offer its MRO services to international airlines. According to ADE chief Mahesh Kumar, “These milestones reinforce our position as a leading MRO in the region and underscore Malaysia’s growing role as a major hub for aviation maintenance.”
The certifications add to ADE’s existing approvals from regulatory bodies in Singapore, India, Indonesia, and Thailand, making it one of the few Asia-based MRO providers with such a comprehensive portfolio of international approvals.
“These certifications are more than a badge of compliance, they are a testament to ADE’s rigorous adherence to the world’s most stringent safety, airworthiness, and operational standards,” Asia Digital Engineering In tandem with regulatory approvals, ADE has also expanded its physical infrastructure. In September 2024, the company inaugurated a 14-line MRO hangar at its Kuala Lumpur headquarters, now the largest of its kind in Malaysia. This facility significantly boosts ADE’s maintenance capacity and positions it to handle a larger volume of aircraft from global clients.
The new hangar is equipped with advanced technologies aligned with ADE’s digital engineering strategy. These include predictive maintenance tools, digital twin systems, and integrated data analytics platforms designed to minimize aircraft downtime and enhance operational efficiency. This infrastructure investment aligns with the company’s broader vision of becoming a digital-first MRO provider capable of delivering high-quality, efficient, and scalable maintenance solutions to a global clientele.
The global MRO market was valued at approximately USD 90.85 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.75% from 2025 to 2030, reaching USD 120.96 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by increasing air traffic, aging aircraft fleets, and the need for more sophisticated maintenance solutions. ADE’s certifications and infrastructure expansion position it well to capitalize on these trends.
Moreover, the aviation industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with MRO providers increasingly adopting AI, machine learning, and automation to streamline operations. ADE’s focus on digital engineering places it at the forefront of this evolution, enabling it to offer predictive maintenance and data-driven insights that reduce costs and improve aircraft availability.
According to Dr. Maria Sanchez, an aviation maintenance expert at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), “The integration of digital engineering in MRO is a game-changer. Providers like ADE who combine regulatory approvals with advanced technology will lead the next phase of aviation maintenance, improving safety and operational efficiency worldwide.”
While EASA and FAA certifications open new doors, they also come with heightened expectations for ongoing compliance and quality assurance. Maintaining these certifications requires continuous audits, training, and process improvements. For ADE, this means establishing robust internal systems to ensure that all operations consistently meet international standards.
Furthermore, as ADE expands into new markets, it must navigate a complex web of local regulations, customer expectations, and cultural nuances. This requires not only technical expertise but also strategic partnerships and localized knowledge to deliver services effectively across different jurisdictions.
Nonetheless, ADE’s track record of securing multiple certifications across Asia suggests that it is well-prepared to meet these challenges head-on.
The MRO industry is highly competitive, with established players in Europe, North America, and the Middle East. To differentiate itself, ADE must leverage its cost advantages, digital capabilities, and strategic location in Asia-Pacific. The region’s proximity to fast-growing aviation markets like China, India, and Southeast Asia gives ADE a logistical edge over some of its Western counterparts. Additionally, the growing trend of airline outsourcing for maintenance services presents a significant opportunity. Airlines are increasingly turning to third-party MRO providers to reduce operational costs and focus on core competencies. This shift bodes well for companies like ADE that offer scalable, tech-enabled solutions.
Alfred Chua, aerospace analyst at FlightGlobal, noted: “ADE’s achievement in securing both EASA and FAA certifications underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the highest global standards. This positions ADE as a competitive player capable of servicing a diverse range of aircraft across multiple jurisdictions.”
Looking ahead, ADE is expected to pursue new partnerships and contracts with international airlines and leasing companies. These collaborations will likely focus on long-term maintenance agreements that provide stable revenue streams and operational synergies.
The company also aims to further enhance its digital engineering capabilities, incorporating more AI-driven tools and predictive analytics into its service offerings. This aligns with broader industry goals of reducing aircraft downtime, improving safety, and achieving sustainability targets.
As the aviation industry continues to rebound from pandemic-related disruptions, the demand for reliable, efficient, and compliant MRO services is set to rise. ADE appears well-positioned to meet this demand and play a key role in shaping the future of aviation maintenance in Asia and beyond.
Asia Digital Engineering’s attainment of EASA and FAA certifications marks a defining moment in the company’s journey. These endorsements not only validate its operational excellence but also unlock new opportunities in the global aviation maintenance market. Coupled with strategic infrastructure investments and a focus on digital innovation, ADE is poised to become a formidable player in the international MRO landscape.
As the aviation industry embraces digital transformation and navigates complex regulatory environments, companies like ADE that combine compliance with innovation will lead the way. The certifications are not just a milestone, they are a launchpad for future growth, partnerships, and global recognition.
What are EASA and FAA certifications? Why are these certifications significant for ADE? How does ADE plan to use these certifications?
Asia Digital Engineering Secures EASA and FAA Certifications: A Strategic Leap in Global MRO
Certifications and Global Expansion
Unlocking Global Markets
Enhancing Operational Capacity
Strategic Alignment with Industry Trends
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Regulatory Complexity and Compliance
Competition in the MRO Sector
Future Outlook and Strategic Goals
Conclusion
FAQ
These are regulatory approvals granted by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and the US Federal Aviation Administration, respectively. They allow MRO providers to perform maintenance on aircraft registered in these jurisdictions.
They enable ADE to expand its services internationally, particularly to Europe and the US, and validate its adherence to global safety and operational standards.
ADE aims to attract international clients, secure long-term maintenance contracts, and enhance its digital engineering capabilities to become a global MRO leader.
Sources
Photo Credit: AirAsia
MRO & Manufacturing
Bombardier Acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions to Expand US Service Network
Bombardier acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions, adding a Delaware facility and mobile repair units to enhance its U.S. aftermarket services.
On February 9, 2026, Bombardier announced the acquisition of Velocity Maintenance Solutions, a specialized provider of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services based in Wilmington, Delaware. The transaction, executed through Bombardier’s U.S. subsidiary Learjet Inc., represents a strategic expansion of the manufacturer’s aftermarket footprint in the high-traffic Northeast corridor.
The acquisition provides Bombardier with immediate access to a 35,000-square-foot facility at New Castle Airport (ILG) and a fleet of mobile repair units designed for rapid response. While financial terms of the deal remain confidential, the move aligns with the company’s stated objective to grow its services revenue and secure a stronger domestic presence in the United States.
According to the company’s official statement, the acquisition is designed to bolster support for Bombardier’s growing fleet of business jets, including the ultra-long-range Global 8000. By integrating Velocity Maintenance Solutions, Bombardier aims to capture more of the lifecycle maintenance market, a sector that offers stable margins compared to the cyclical nature of aircraft sales.
The deal includes significant physical and operational assets that will be integrated into Bombardier’s service network:
Paul Sislian, Executive Vice President of Bombardier Aftermarket Services, highlighted the cultural fit between the two organizations in the press release.
“Velocity Maintenance Solutions’ capabilities and customer-focused culture make it an excellent fit for Bombardier… This acquisition is part of our commitment to continually elevate our service standards.”
Velocity Maintenance Solutions has established itself as an agile player in the MRO space since its emergence around 2021. As an FAA Part 145 Repair Station, the company is authorized to perform scheduled maintenance, structural repairs, and avionics upgrades.
Prior to the acquisition, Velocity serviced a diverse range of aircraft, including models from Embraer, Dassault Falcon, Gulfstream, and Textron, in addition to Bombardier jets. The facility is known for its 24/7 emergency support capabilities, a critical service for business jet operators requiring immediate dispatch reliability.
This acquisition arrives during a complex period for the aerospace industry, characterized by both consolidation and geopolitical friction. By executing the purchase through Learjet Inc., a heritage U.S. brand based in Wichita, Kansas, Bombardier reinforces its status as a significant U.S. employer. This distinction is increasingly vital as the company navigates trade tensions, including recent tariff threats from the U.S. administration regarding Canadian aerospace products.
Expanding physical infrastructure within the United States serves a dual purpose: it insulates the company’s service supply chain from potential cross-border friction and strengthens its eligibility for U.S. defense contracts. Furthermore, in an industry facing a chronic shortage of skilled labor, acquiring a “turnkey” operation with a certified workforce allows Bombardier to bypass the long lead times associated with recruiting and training new technicians. The location in Wilmington also places Bombardier in direct competition with other major service providers at New Castle Airport, including a Dassault Falcon service center, signaling an aggressive push to dominate the Northeast service market.
The acquisition was made by Learjet Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of Bombardier.
The existing team of technicians and support staff at Velocity Maintenance Solutions will be retained and integrated into Bombardier’s workforce.
While the press release emphasizes support for Bombardier’s fleet, Velocity has historically serviced various manufacturers. OEMs often honor existing third-party contracts during transition periods, though the long-term focus typically shifts to the parent company’s products.
Bombardier Acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions to Densify U.S. Service Network
Expanding the Aftermarket Ecosystem
Target Profile: Velocity Maintenance Solutions
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic and Political Context
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the acquiring entity?
What happens to the current workforce?
Will Velocity continue to service non-Bombardier aircraft?
Sources
Photo Credit: Velocity Maintenance Solutions
MRO & Manufacturing
Satair and Joramco Extend 25-Year Partnership at MRO Middle East 2026
Satair and Joramco renew their 25-year supply agreement at MRO Middle East 2026, supporting Joramco’s maintenance operations and new contracts.
This article is based on an official press release from Satair and additional industry reporting regarding MRO Middle East 2026.
At the MRO Middle East 2026 exhibition in Dubai, Satair, an Airbus Services company, and Joramco (Jordan Aircraft Maintenance Limited) officially announced the renewal of their long-standing Consumables and Expendables Supply Agreement. The deal marks the continuation of a strategic partnership that has spanned more than a quarter of a century, reinforcing the critical role of integrated supply chains in the growing Middle Eastern aviation maintenance sector.
According to the announcement, the renewed agreement is designed to secure a consistent flow of essential spare parts for Joramco’s base maintenance operations in Amman, Jordan. By locking in this supply chain solution, Joramco aims to minimize “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG) risks and reduce the complexity of material management for its expanding customer base.
The partnership between Satair and Joramco is one of the most enduring in the region. For over 25 years, Satair has served as a primary provider of consumables and expendables, high-volume, low-cost parts essential for routine maintenance, to the Jordan-based MRO provider.
In the official release, the companies highlighted the operational benefits of the extension. The agreement allows Joramco to leverage Satair’s global distribution network, ensuring that parts are available precisely when needed. This “just-in-time” capability is vital for MROs (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul providers) striving to offer competitive turnaround times to airlines.
A primary focus of the renewal is the mitigation of supply chain disruptions. By outsourcing the management of consumables to Satair, Joramco can focus its internal resources on heavy maintenance and engineering tasks rather than logistics. The agreement reportedly covers a comprehensive range of Airbus and Boeing fleet requirements, aligning with Joramco’s diverse capabilities.
“This continued partnership with Satair ensures we have the right parts at the right time, allowing us to deliver superior turnaround times to our global customers.”
, Statement attributed to Joramco leadership regarding the renewal
The renewal comes amidst a flurry of activity at MRO Middle East 2026, where both companies have announced significant independent expansions. The event, held on February 4–5, 2026, has served as a platform for major industry shifts in the region. According to industry reporting from the event, Joramco has also secured a major five-year heavy maintenance agreement with the German leisure carrier Condor. This deal will see Joramco performing base maintenance on Condor’s entire Airbus fleet, including the A320ceo, A320neo, and A330neo. Additionally, Joramco celebrated the first graduates of its Structured On-the-Job Training (SOJT) program, a move aimed at addressing the global shortage of skilled aviation technicians.
Simultaneously, Satair has expanded its footprint in the sustainability sector. Reports from the event indicate Satair signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GAMECO (Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Co.) to enter the Used Serviceable Material (USM) market, addressing the rising demand for cost-effective and sustainable parts solutions.
The renewal of the Satair-Joramco agreement highlights a critical trend in the post-2025 aviation landscape: the prioritization of supply chain resilience. In an era where global parts shortages have frequently grounded fleets, MRO providers are increasingly moving toward long-term, integrated agreements with major distributors rather than relying on spot-market purchasing.
Furthermore, the Middle East’s trajectory as a global MRO hub is evident in these announcements. Joramco’s ability to secure European contracts like the Condor deal, backed by a robust supply chain from Satair, suggests that regional players are successfully competing on a global scale by combining geographic advantages with high-grade logistical reliability.
Satair and Joramco Extend 25-Year Supply Chain Partnership at MRO Middle East 2026
Strengthening a Quarter-Century Alliance
Operational Efficiency and AOG Reduction
Broader Context: MRO Middle East 2026 Developments
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Satair
MRO & Manufacturing
Joramco Renews Maintenance Agreement with mas Cargo Airline for 2026
Joramco extends its maintenance contract with Mexican cargo airline mas for heavy checks on Airbus A330 freighters throughout 2026 at its Amman facility.
This article is based on an official press release from Joramco.
Joramco, the Amman-based aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility and engineering arm of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), has officially announced the renewal of its maintenance agreement with mas (formerly MasAir), a prominent Mexican cargo airline. The agreement was finalized and signed during the MRO Middle East 2026 exhibition in Dubai, marking a continuation of the strategic partnership between the two entities.
Under the terms of the renewed contract, Joramco will perform heavy base maintenance checks on the mas fleet of Airbus A330 freighters. The work is scheduled to take place throughout 2026 at Joramco’s facility at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan. This announcement underscores the MRO provider’s increasing traction in the global cargo sector and its ability to secure recurring business from international carriers outside its traditional regional stronghold.
According to the company’s announcement, the new deal focuses specifically on heavy base maintenance, often referred to as C-checks, for the carrier’s Airbus A330 fleet. These checks are critical for ensuring the continued airworthiness and operational reliability of the freighter aircraft, which are essential to mas’s global logistics network.
This renewal follows a successful initial collaboration established relatively recently. Joramco and mas first formalized their partnerships in October 2025 at the MRO Europe exhibition in London. That initial agreement covered maintenance checks that began in December 2025. The rapid renewal, signed just four months later, suggests a successful execution of the initial checks and a deepening of the business relationship.
In a statement regarding the renewal, Joramco’s leadership highlighted the significance of the repeat business.
“We are pleased to welcome more aircraft from mas at Joramco. This agreement reaffirms Joramco’s position as a trusted Global MRO provider of choice.”
, Adam Voss, CEO of Joramco
The agreement with mas aligns with Joramco’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint. By securing a renewal with a Latin American carrier, the Jordan-based MRO is demonstrating its competitiveness on a global scale, attracting airframes from the Americas to the Middle-East for heavy maintenance. The timing of this renewal is notable within the wider context of the MRO industry’s capacity constraints. In late 2025, Joramco inaugurated “Hangar 7,” a significant infrastructure expansion that reportedly increased its capacity to 22 parallel maintenance lines. This expansion appears to be paying dividends, allowing the facility to accommodate the “more aircraft” referenced by CEO Adam Voss.
Furthermore, the cargo market remains a demanding sector requiring high asset utilization. For a specialized Cargo-Aircraft airline like mas, which operates a modernizing fleet of Airbus A330 Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) aircraft, securing reliable MRO slots is a strategic priority. The quick transition from an initial contract in late 2025 to a full-year renewal for 2026 indicates that Joramco has successfully met the technical and turnaround time requirements demanded by the cargo carrier.
Joramco: A subsidiary of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), Joramco has operated for over 60 years. Based in Amman, Jordan, it provides airframe maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer aircraft.
mas: Headquartered in Mexico City, mas (formerly MasAir) is a specialized cargo airline operating scheduled and charter freight services across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The airline has been actively expanding its capacity with Airbus A330 freighters to support its international network.
Sources:
Joramco Extends Maintenance Partnership with mas Cargo Airline for 2026
Scope of the Renewed Agreement
Strategic Context and Capacity Expansion
AirPro News Analysis
About the Companies
Photo Credit: Joramco
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