MRO & Manufacturing
Sikorsky and Partners Open S-92 Helicopter Center of Excellence in Brazil
Sikorsky, Heli-One, and Milestone launch an S-92 Helicopter Center of Excellence in Brazil to enhance maintenance and reduce downtime.
Strategic Cooperation: Sikorsky, Heli-One, and Milestone Establish S-92® Helicopter Center of Excellence in Brazil
In a strategic move reflecting the evolving needs of the global Helicopters services industry, Sikorsky (a Lockheed Martin company), Heli-One (a division of CHC Helicopter Group), and Milestone Aviation announced on July 24, 2025, the creation of a Center of Excellence (CoE) for S-92® helicopters in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The initiative is designed to strengthen operational support across South America, enhancing maintenance capabilities and reducing fleet downtime for one of the most widely used helicopters in offshore oil and gas missions.
This collaboration addresses a growing demand in Brazil’s offshore energy sector, where the S-92 has become a critical asset for crew transport and search-and-rescue (SAR) operations. With over 30 S-92 helicopters currently operating in the region, the establishment of a dedicated CoE marks a significant step toward localized, efficient, and scalable maintenance and logistics support.
The announcement also aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing the importance of regional maintenance hubs to mitigate supply chain challenges and improve aircraft availability. As operators face increasing logistical complexities, this initiative aims to provide timely access to parts, technical expertise, and scheduled maintenance services, all within Brazil’s borders.
Background: The S-92 and Its Role in Brazil
Developed by Sikorsky and introduced in 2004, the S-92 helicopter is a twin-engine, medium-lift aircraft known for its robust safety credentials and versatility. With more than 2.2 million fleet flight hours logged globally, the S-92 supports a range of missions, including offshore oil transport, executive transport, and SAR operations. Its performance in high-demand environments has made it a preferred choice for operators in regions with expansive offshore energy infrastructure.
In Brazil, the S-92 plays a vital role in supporting the operations of Petrobras, the state-owned oil company, and other operators such as CHC Brazil, Lider Aviation, and Omni Helicopters. These helicopters are primarily used to ferry personnel between the mainland and offshore oil platforms located in deepwater fields, including the pre-salt reserves off the southeast coast.
Before the CoE initiative, support for the S-92 fleet in Brazil was limited to a Forward Stocking Location (FSL) in Rio de Janeiro. While helpful, this setup lacked the embedded maintenance and repair capabilities required for rapid response and high availability. Maintenance tasks often required international logistics, contributing to longer downtimes and increased operational costs.
About the Partners
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is the original equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of the S-92. The company has consistently invested in technological upgrades to improve the helicopter’s safety and performance. One such innovation is the Phase IV main gearbox, designed to eliminate “land immediately” requirements during oil-loss emergencies.
Heli-One is the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) arm of CHC Helicopter Group. With over two decades of experience and support for more than 250 aircraft globally, Heli-One brings extensive technical knowledge and infrastructure to the CoE. It will lead the operations of the new center in Rio de Janeiro.
Milestone Aviation is the world’s leading helicopter leasing company, financing fleets for operators worldwide. In Brazil, Milestone recently leased seven helicopters, including S-92s, to Omni Helicopters International for Petrobras-related missions. This marks Milestone’s first major placement in the Brazilian market.
The Center of Excellence Initiative
The newly announced Center of Excellence will be based in Rio de Janeiro and led by Heli-One. It is designed to provide comprehensive support for the S-92 fleet in Brazil and across South America. The center will offer services such as access to critical spare parts, scheduled maintenance, and optimized supply chain solutions.
The CoE aims to reduce aircraft downtime and improve mission readiness by embedding services closer to operators. Key components like gearboxes, main rotor blades, and dampers will be stocked locally, allowing for quicker turnaround times on maintenance and repairs. This localized approach is expected to alleviate the parts supply bottlenecks that have affected global S-92 operations in recent years.
According to the announcement, the CoE will also integrate Sikorsky’s Phase IV gearbox technology, which is currently undergoing certification. This upgrade enhances the safety profile of the S-92 and reflects a broader commitment to continuous improvement and fleet modernization.
“We are committed to providing rigorous and dependable capabilities that ensure the continued success of the S-92 helicopter,” said Leon Silva, VP of Global Commercial and Military Systems at Sikorsky.
Strategic Importance for Brazil
Brazil’s offshore oil and gas sector is among the most active in the world, with Petrobras leading exploration and production in deepwater and ultra-deepwater fields. The logistical demands of these operations necessitate reliable helicopter transport, especially for platforms located hundreds of kilometers offshore.
CHC Brazil, one of the major operators of the S-92 in the region, recently secured two new contracts with Petrobras for operations in the Roncador field. These Contracts have led to a 33% expansion of CHC’s local fleet, underlining the growing reliance on the S-92 platform.
With over 30 S-92 aircraft operating in Brazil, the CoE is poised to become a critical asset in maintaining fleet availability and operational continuity. By reducing the need for international logistics, the center supports Brazil’s broader goal of developing self-sustaining aerospace capabilities.
Global Industry Context
Globally, the helicopter MRO industry is experiencing transformation, driven by increasing fleet sizes and the need for faster maintenance turnaround. The civil helicopter MRO market is projected to reach $9.2 billion by 2025, with Latin America identified as a high-growth region due to expanding offshore energy activities.
The S-92 has faced challenges in recent years, including parts shortages and long maintenance cycles. In 2024, it was reported that up to 7% of the global S-92 fleet was grounded due to Supply-Chain constraints. These challenges have prompted OEMs and MRO providers to rethink support strategies, leading to the emergence of regional Centers of Excellence.
StandardAero’s MRO facilities in Canada serve as an example of this trend, consolidating services to improve efficiency and reduce downtime. The new CoE in Brazil follows a similar model, tailored to the specific needs of the South American market and its offshore energy sector.
“The time is right for establishing an S-92 Center of Excellence in Brazil as more customers select the aircraft for rescue and recovery,” said Tom Burke, CEO of CHC Helicopter Group.
Future Outlook
The establishment of the CoE represents a long-term investment in the sustainability of Brazil’s helicopter operations. As offshore energy projects expand and become more complex, the demand for reliable aerial transport will only increase. The CoE positions Brazil as a regional hub for S-92 support, potentially attracting additional operators and investment.
Moreover, the Partnerships between Sikorsky, Heli-One, and Milestone demonstrates a collaborative approach to addressing industry-wide challenges. By pooling resources and expertise, the companies aim to set a benchmark for future MRO collaborations in the region and beyond.
While the initiative is still subject to internal approvals, its successful implementation could serve as a model for other regions facing similar logistical and operational constraints.
Conclusion
The strategic cooperation between Sikorsky, Heli-One, and Milestone to establish a Center of Excellence for S-92 helicopters in Brazil marks a significant milestone for the region’s aviation and energy sectors. By localizing critical maintenance and supply chain services, the initiative aims to enhance fleet readiness, reduce downtime, and support the growing demands of offshore operations.
As the global helicopter industry continues to evolve, the Brazilian CoE could become a blueprint for how OEMs, MRO providers, and lessors collaborate to deliver integrated, efficient, and reliable support solutions. The move underscores the importance of regional hubs in meeting the operational needs of modern aviation fleets.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the Center of Excellence in Brazil?
The CoE aims to provide localized maintenance, repair, and supply chain services for the S-92 helicopter fleet operating in Brazil and South America.
Who will lead the operations of the CoE?
Heli-One, the MRO division of CHC Helicopter Group, will lead the CoE operations in Rio de Janeiro.
How many S-92 helicopters operate in Brazil?
Over 30 S-92 helicopters are currently in operation in Brazil, primarily supporting offshore oil and gas missions.
Why is the S-92 important for Brazil’s offshore sector?
The S-92 provides reliable transport for personnel and equipment to offshore oil platforms, which are often located far from the mainland.
What challenges does the CoE aim to address?
The CoE addresses parts shortages, long maintenance cycles, and the need for faster, localized support to reduce fleet downtime.
Sources
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
MRO & Manufacturing
SABIC Launches ULTEM SU3102P Oligomer for Aerospace Composites
SABIC unveils ULTEM SU3102P reactive oligomer, enhancing aerospace composites with higher loading, toughness, and manufacturing efficiency.
SABIC Introduces ULTEM SU3102P Reactive Oligomer for Aerospace Composites
Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) has officially launched the ULTEM™ SU3102P reactive oligomer, a new polyetherimide (PEI) toughening agent engineered specifically for thermoset composites in the aerospace sector. According to a company press release, the material is designed to optimize the manufacturing of both primary and secondary Commercial-Aircraft structures by providing higher loading capacities and enhanced processing efficiency.
The aerospace industry is currently managing a significant increase in global passenger and cargo air traffic. This operational surge places pressure on aircraft Manufacturers to scale capacity and throughput while strictly adhering to safety, cost, and Sustainability mandates. To achieve these targets, the sector relies heavily on advanced composite materials for “lightweighting”, reducing the overall weight of an aircraft to lower fuel consumption and minimize carbon emissions.
However, engineering materials that are simultaneously lighter, thinner, and sufficiently durable to withstand extreme flight conditions remains a persistent challenge. SABIC states that its new oligomer addresses this industry gap by improving the durability and manufacturability of aerospace composites. The innovation recently earned a Gold award in the Materials Science category at the 2026 Edison Awards.
Technical Specifications and Manufacturing Integration
Based on the manufacturer’s specifications, the ULTEM SU3102P is a low molecular weight reactive oligomer based on PEI functionalized with amine groups. It is targeted for use in critical aerospace structures, including wings, fuselage frames, spoilers, and interior cabin components. Like other materials in the ULTEM portfolio, the company notes that the SU3102P oligomer features inherent flame retardance, high strength, high heat and chemical resistance, and a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE).
A key operational advantage highlighted in the press release is the material’s compatibility with existing production lines. SABIC describes the oligomer as a “drop-in” solution, meaning aerospace manufacturers can integrate it without requiring costly equipment upgrades. It is reportedly compatible with a broad spectrum of thermoset resin systems, including epoxy, cyanate ester, benzoxazine, bismaleimide, phenolic, phenoxy, and urethane. The material is currently available globally for both sampling and commercial-scale orders.
Performance Metrics vs. Industry Standards
SABIC claims that the ULTEM SU3102P oligomer significantly outperforms reactive polyethersulfone (rPES), which is currently considered the industry standard. According to the company’s published data, the new thermoplastic solution is capable of achieving unprecedented loadings of up to 50% by weight. In contrast, traditional rPES typically permits loadings of only 7% to 12%.
Furthermore, the manufacturer reports that the new oligomer improves the toughness-stiffness balance of composite materials by up to 140% compared to rPES. This enhancement is intended to help composites better resist fracture and impact damage, potentially reducing aircraft maintenance downtime and improving overall safety. Despite the high loading capabilities, SABIC states that the oligomer maintains a low formulation viscosity, which can boost the productivity and energy efficiency of thermoset composite prepregs by up to 30%.
Industry Impact and Corporate Recognition
The launch of this material aligns with broader industry efforts to streamline supply chains and reduce the environmental footprint of aerospace manufacturing.
“As global air traffic increases significantly with more passengers and cargo, the industry faces pressure to build capacity and throughput within its existing footprint, while still meeting cost, safety and sustainability goals. Our new ULTEM oligomer can help designers create lighter, thinner and tougher composite structures, increase manufacturing efficiency and cut emissions. This addition to our ULTEM portfolio builds on a long history of success in aerospace applications and demonstrates our strong commitment to materials innovation.”
— Sergi Monros, Vice President of SABIC Polymers, Specialties Business Unit
The product’s development was recognized at the 2026 Edison Awards, where the ULTEM SU3102P reactive oligomer was named a Gold winner in the Materials Science category. According to the company, the 2026 ceremony marked the sixth consecutive year SABIC has been honored at the Edison Awards. In 2026 alone, the corporation secured five awards across multiple categories, including Material Science, Energy & Climate Resiliency, and Clean Water, Food & Agriculture.
AirPro News analysis
At AirPro News, we note that the introduction of a “drop-in” toughening agent with a 50% loading capacity represents a notable shift in composite material science. For aerospace original equipment OEMs and tier-one suppliers, the ability to improve material toughness by a claimed 140% without overhauling existing thermoset resin equipment is a critical capital expenditure saver. Furthermore, the reported 30% boost in energy efficiency during the prepreg manufacturing process directly supports the aviation sector’s aggressive net-zero carbon targets for 2050. If the commercial application of ULTEM SU3102P matches SABIC’s laboratory metrics, it could accelerate the adoption of thinner, lighter composite structures in next-generation aircraft designs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the ULTEM SU3102P reactive oligomer?
It is a new polyetherimide (PEI) toughening agent developed by SABIC, designed to make thermoset composites used in aerospace manufacturing lighter, stronger, and more durable.
How does it compare to existing materials?
According to SABIC, it outperforms the industry standard (rPES) by allowing up to 50% by weight (compared to 7-12%) and improving the toughness-stiffness balance by up to 140%.
Do manufacturers need new equipment to use it?
No. The company states it is a “drop-in” solution compatible with existing manufacturing processes and a wide range of thermoset resin systems.
Sources
Photo Credit: SABIC
MRO & Manufacturing
IVP Launches Refurbished Hangar Complex at Subang Airport in 2026
IVP, a subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional, inaugurated a refurbished hangar complex at Subang Airport to boost Malaysia’s aerospace MRO capabilities.
On May 4, 2026, Impeccable Vintage Properties (IVP), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund Khazanah Nasional Berhad, officially inaugurated its newly refurbished hangar complex at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang. The launch marks a critical step in transforming the airport into a premier destination for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services in Southeast Asia.
According to reporting by Business Today, the development is strategically positioned to elevate Selangor and Malaysia as a central aerospace hub. By upgrading legacy infrastructure to meet modern aviation standards, IVP aims to attract high-value aviation activities and international operators to the region.
The revitalization of the Subang aerospace complex represents a coordinated national effort. The project aligns directly with the Malaysia Aerospace Blueprint 2030 and the Selangor Aerospace Action Plan 2020–2030, reflecting a broader governmental push to capture a larger share of the lucrative Asia-Pacific MRO market.
The New Hangar Facilities and Key Tenants
The newly launched facilities have already secured commitments from major regional and global aviation players. Business Today reports that the complex is anchored by key industry operators, including Malaysia Airlines Engineering Services (MABES) and Base Maintenance Malaysia (BMM).
Industry records indicate that BMM, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC), previously signed a 15-year lease agreement for two hangars at the site, establishing SIAEC’s third base maintenance hub in the Asia-Pacific region. These hangars are capable of accommodating widebody aircraft, significantly boosting regional airframe check capacity.
In addition to airframe maintenance, the complex houses GE Aerospace Engine Services Malaysia (GEESM). This facility serves as a specialized center of excellence for LEAP engine maintenance, catering to the growing fleet of next-generation narrowbody aircraft operating in the region.
The Engine Ground Run Bay
A standout technical feature of the IVP complex is its specialized testing infrastructure. Business Today highlights that the site features Subang Airport’s only dedicated engine ground run (EGR) bay. This unique addition enables operators to conduct on-wing engine testing for widebody aircraft safely and efficiently, reducing downtime for airlines and streamlining the MRO process.
Ongoing Refurbishments and Future Expansion
While the May 4 launch represents a major operational milestone, the transformation of the 100-acre Subang site is an ongoing process. The property, which was formerly owned by Malaysia Airlines and largely underutilized before IVP took over in 2021, contains approximately 27 buildings and facilities.
According to IVP statements cited by Business Today, refurbishment works on the remaining hangar assets are actively progressing. The company has targeted the end of 2026 for the full completion of these upgrades.
Infrastructure and Sustainability Upgrades
Beyond the hangars themselves, IVP is investing in comprehensive infrastructure enhancements. Upcoming additions include a dedicated component workshop and a centralized storage facility, which will further support the complex’s MRO ecosystem.
Modernization efforts also extend to environmental sustainability. The newly launched complex incorporates several green design elements. Business Today notes that the facility features energy-efficient systems, advanced water management measures, and critical flood mitigation infrastructure, ensuring the site remains resilient against extreme weather events.
Economic Impact and Strategic Alignment
The redevelopment of the Subang aerospace corridor is expected to yield significant economic dividends for Malaysia. Officials anticipate that the expanded MRO hub will generate numerous high-skilled employment opportunities, particularly in technical and engineering disciplines.
By providing world-class infrastructure, IVP allows its tenants to focus entirely on their core MRO operations. This plug-and-play model is designed to strengthen local aviation supply chains and reinforce Subang’s position as a strategic aerospace corridor.
“The development is expected to support the creation of high-skilled jobs, strengthen aviation supply chains, and reinforce Subang’s position as a strategic aerospace corridor,” noted officials in the Business Today report.
AirPro News analysis
The official launch of IVP’s hangar facilities at Subang Airport underscores a highly competitive race for MRO dominance in the Asia-Pacific region. With neighboring hubs facing land constraints and rising costs, Malaysia is aggressively positioning Subang as a viable, high-quality alternative. By leveraging the financial backing of Khazanah Nasional Berhad and securing blue-chip tenants like SIAEC and GE Aerospace, IVP has successfully validated its infrastructure-as-a-service model.
The inclusion of specialized assets, such as the dedicated widebody engine ground run bay, demonstrates a clear understanding of airline operational needs. As the global commercial fleet continues to expand, particularly in Southeast Asia, the demand for localized, comprehensive MRO services will only intensify. If IVP can meet its end-of-2026 completion targets for the remaining facilities, Subang is well-positioned to capture a substantial share of this growth, fulfilling the ambitious targets set out in the Malaysia Aerospace Blueprint 2030.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Impeccable Vintage Properties (IVP)?
Impeccable Vintage Properties (IVP) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund. IVP was mandated to redevelop a 100-acre site at Subang Airport into a premier aerospace and MRO hub.
Who are the main tenants at the new Subang hangar complex?
Key anchor tenants include Base Maintenance Malaysia (BMM), a unit of SIA Engineering Company; Malaysia Airlines Engineering Services (MABES); and GE Aerospace Engine Services Malaysia (GEESM).
When will the entire Subang MRO complex be completed?
While initial hangar facilities were officially launched on May 4, 2026, IVP targets the end of 2026 for the full completion of refurbishments on the remaining hangar assets and supporting infrastructure.
Sources
Photo Credit: Impeccable Vintage Properties (IVP)
MRO & Manufacturing
ITP Aero Opens New Aerospace Manufacturing Facility in Hyderabad
ITP Aero expands in Hyderabad with a new facility for aviation engine components, creating 350+ jobs and boosting local aerospace capabilities.
ITP Aero Expands Indian Footprint with New Hyderabad Facility
Global aerospace propulsion leader ITP Aero has officially broken ground on a new manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, India. According to a company press release, the new site is slated to become fully operational in 2027 and will focus on producing commercial aircraft engine components, including fabrications and machining parts. This strategic move is designed to support the increasing global demand across the civil aerospace market.
This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s 15-year history in the region. We note that the development is expected to generate over 350 new skilled jobs within the next five years. These new positions will supplement the 250 manufacturing roles already established by the company in Hyderabad, directly contributing to the region’s economic development and strengthening local aerospace capabilities.
Strategic Growth and Leadership in India
Strengthening Local Capabilities
The new facility underscores ITP Aero’s long-term commitment to the Indian aerospace ecosystem. To spearhead this next phase of regional growth, the company recently appointed Sandeep Sharma as Managing Director for India. According to the official announcement, Sharma brings more than two decades of aerospace sector experience to the role, having previously held leadership positions across supply chain, business development, finance, and customer service at Pratt & Whitney.
“Hyderabad has been part of our industrial journey for 15 years, we have seen this site grow and evolve alongside our business. This expansion is a source of pride, reflecting what we have achieved together and our confidence in the region’s people and manufacturing capabilities.”
, Carlos Alzola, Managing Director of ITP Aero Group, in a company statement
Government Support and Economic Impact
The expansion is also receiving strong backing from local authorities, who view the investment as a catalyst for regional industrial growth. Sridhar Babu, Minister of Industries of Telangana, highlighted the economic benefits of the project during the groundbreaking event.
“We welcome ITP Aero’s decision to expand its footprint in Hyderabad, building on a trusted partnership of 15 years in Telangana. The new facility, expected to be fully operational in 2027, will create more than 350 skilled jobs and further strengthen our growing aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.”
, Sridhar Babu, Minister of Industries of Telangana
Robust Financial Momentum
Record Revenues and Future Investments
The groundbreaking in Hyderabad aligns with a period of strong financial performance for the company. In its official release, ITP Aero reported 2025 revenues of €1.88 billion, representing a 17% increase, alongside an EBITDA of €379 million, up 28%. These figures reflect robust growth and a solid financial foundation for future expansion.
Looking to the future, the aerospace manufacturer has committed €1.2 billion toward research and development and capital expenditures by 2030 across its global operations, signaling a heavy investment in next-generation technologies and capacity building.
AirPro News analysis
We view ITP Aero’s continued investment in Hyderabad as a clear indicator of India’s growing prominence in the global aerospace supply chain. By expanding its manufacturing footprint for commercial aviation engine components, the company is strategically positioning itself to meet rising global demand while leveraging a highly skilled local workforce. The substantial €1.2 billion global R&D and capital expenditure commitment further suggests that ITP Aero is preparing for next-generation aerospace requirements, ensuring its facilities worldwide are equipped to handle advanced manufacturing processes and sustainable aviation technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the new ITP Aero facility in Hyderabad open?
According to the company, the new manufacturing site is expected to be fully operational in 2027.
How many jobs will the new facility create?
The expansion is projected to create more than 350 new skilled jobs over the next five years, adding to the 250 existing manufacturing roles in the region.
What will the new site manufacture?
The facility will produce commercial aviation engine components, specifically focusing on fabrications and machining parts to support the civil aerospace market.
Who is leading ITP Aero’s operations in India?
Sandeep Sharma was recently appointed as Managing Director India, bringing over 20 years of aerospace industry experience to the role.
Sources
Photo Credit: ITP Aero
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