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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What is the purpose of the Center of Excellence in Brazil? Who will lead the operations of the CoE? How many S-92 helicopters operate in Brazil? Why is the S-92 important for Brazil’s offshore sector? What challenges does the CoE aim to address?
Strategic Cooperation: Sikorsky, Heli-One, and Milestone Establish S-92® Helicopter Center of Excellence in Brazil
Background: The S-92 and Its Role in Brazil
About the Partners
The Center of Excellence Initiative
Strategic Importance for Brazil
Global Industry Context
Future Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
The CoE aims to provide localized maintenance, repair, and supply chain services for the S-92 helicopter fleet operating in Brazil and South America.
Heli-One, the MRO division of CHC Helicopter Group, will lead the CoE operations in Rio de Janeiro.
Over 30 S-92 helicopters are currently in operation in Brazil, primarily supporting offshore oil and gas missions.
The S-92 provides reliable transport for personnel and equipment to offshore oil platforms, which are often located far from the mainland.
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
Aeromed Group Expands Global Reach with Gemspring Capital Investment
Aeromed Group grows internationally with Gemspring Capital investment and acquires three aerospace companies, expanding workforce and capabilities.
This article is based on an official press release from Aeromed Group and Gemspring Capital.
Aeromed Group, a Charlotte-based supply chain solution provider for the aerospace and defense sectors, has announced a significant expansion of its operational capabilities and international footprint. On March 3, 2026, the company confirmed a strategic minority investment from Gemspring Capital Management, a move designed to fuel its ongoing “buy-and-build” growth strategy.
Coinciding with this investment, Aeromed Group has completed the acquisitions of three specialized defense and aerospace companies: HITEK Electronic Materials Ltd., NorcaTec LLC, and Kit Pack Company, Inc. According to the official announcement, these transactions collectively add more than 150 employees to the group’s workforce and extend its service reach to over 70 countries.
The capital injection from Gemspring Capital provides Aeromed with the resources to integrate its new assets and pursue further growth. While financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, the deal underscores a shift in Aeromed’s strategy from pure distribution to technical manufacturing and complex sustainment solutions.
Jay Reynolds, Managing Director at Gemspring Capital, highlighted the strategic fit in a statement regarding the deal:
“Aeromed is a high-quality business with a differentiated value proposition serving OEMs and MROs across global commercial and defense markets.”
The three acquired entities bring distinct technical competencies that broaden Aeromed’s portfolio beyond standard parts distribution.
These acquisitions mark the latest phase in a rapid expansion period for Aeromed Group. Over the past two years, the company has aggressively targeted businesses that complement its core supply chain offerings.
According to historical company data, Aeromed acquired AIReps, Inc. in June 2025, adding expertise in aerospace hardware. Prior to that, in June 2024, the group acquired Aerospace Products International (API) and HB Aerospace, strengthening its position in chemical distribution and fastener networks, respectively.
From Distribution to Sustainment: The acquisition of HITEK and NorcaTec suggests a deliberate pivot by Aeromed Group leadership. By moving into electromagnetic shielding and engineered sustainment for legacy platforms, the company is climbing the value chain. Rather than simply moving parts, they are now embedding themselves into the technical maintenance and manufacturing cycles of military assets. The Legacy Market Opportunity: With defense budgets under constant scrutiny and new platform deliveries often facing delays, militaries globally are flying older aircraft for longer. The addition of Kit Pack and NorcaTec positions Aeromed to capture high-margin revenue from the “aftermarket” support of these aging systems, a sector that requires specialized sourcing and engineering knowledge that generalist distributors often lack.
Aeromed Group Expands Global Reach with Gemspring Capital Investment and Triple Acquisition
Strategic Investment and Acquisitions
Expanding Technical Capabilities
Historical Growth Context
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Montage
MRO & Manufacturing
Veryon and Airbus Helicopters Expand Partnership with Shared Delegation Model
Veryon and Airbus Helicopters renew partnership, introducing a Shared Delegation Model and enhanced CAMO services with integrated maintenance data platforms.
This article is based on an official press release.
Aviation management software provider Veryon has announced the renewal and significant expansion of its partnership with Airbus Helicopters. The agreement, finalized on March 3, 2026, introduces new capabilities designed to streamline maintenance operations and enhance data connectivity for helicopter operators worldwide.
According to the company’s announcement, the expanded collaboration focuses on two primary advancements: the authorization of Airbus Helicopters to use Veryon Tracking+ for Continuing Airworthiness Management Organization (CAMO) services, and the introduction of a “Shared Delegation Model.” This new model aims to help operators transition from fully outsourced maintenance management to internal self-reliance.
As an “Elite Airbus Helicopters Partner,” Veryon, formerly known as ATP, continues to integrate its software ecosystem directly into the manufacturer’s global support network. The move signals a broader industry shift toward unified digital platforms that serve as a “single source of truth” for aircraft maintenance data.
The centerpiece of this renewed agreement is the Shared Delegation Model, a framework designed to support operators who may currently lack the internal infrastructure to handle complex airworthiness compliance but wish to build that capability over time.
Under traditional outsourcing models, a third party handles all CAMO tasks, leaving the operator with little visibility or control. Veryon’s press release outlines that the new model allows operators to begin by outsourcing these tasks to Airbus and Veryon. However, unlike standard contracts, this arrangement uses the Veryon platform as a training ground.
Operators can use the software to learn regulatory and maintenance processes, gradually taking over airworthiness management duties as their internal expertise grows. This approach is particularly targeted at operators in tourism and remote regions who require high safety standards but may face challenges in staffing full-time technical back-office teams immediately.
In addition to the delegation model, the partnership authorizes Airbus Helicopters to utilize Veryon Tracking+ (formerly Rusada Envision) to deliver CAMO services to a broader range of aircraft. This authorization allows the manufacturer to offer “turnkey” maintenance management, effectively handling the regulatory paperwork for customers who prefer to focus solely on flight operations. The integration also emphasizes data connectivity. By linking Veryon’s platforms with Airbus systems, the companies aim to eliminate data silos, such as disparate spreadsheets and paper logs, that often plague maintenance departments. Bethany Little, CEO of Veryon, highlighted the operational benefits of this unification in the company’s statement.
“This expanded partnership… provides our OEM customers with tools to unify data from multiple sources and deliver operators the insights they need to maximize aircraft availability.”
, Bethany Little, CEO of Veryon
The following section contains analysis by AirPro News based on industry trends and the provided source material.
This partnership reflects a critical evolution in the aviation maintenance sector. Manufacturers like Airbus are increasingly moving beyond hardware production to become digital enablers. By partnering with specialized software firms like Veryon rather than building proprietary tools from scratch, OEMs are acknowledging a “best-of-breed” strategy.
We observe two key industry drivers behind this expansion:
Veryon, headquartered in the United States, rebranded in 2023 following the acquisitions of Flightdocs and Rusada. The company currently serves over 5,500 customers and supports approximately 75,000 maintenance professionals globally.
The partnership leverages Veryon’s integration with Airbus Skywise, an open data platform. This connectivity ensures that maintenance data entered into Veryon’s system automatically updates Airbus records, reducing the risk of manual entry errors and ensuring that supply chain requests are triggered more efficiently.
It is a collaborative framework where operators initially outsource airworthiness management to Airbus/Veryon but use the software to train their own staff, eventually transitioning to self-managed operations.
The deal primarily utilizes Veryon Tracking+ (a comprehensive MRO solution formerly known as Rusada Envision) and Veryon Tracking (formerly Flightdocs), along with integrations into Airbus’s Skywise platform. While available to all customers, the expanded services are particularly beneficial for smaller operators, tourism fleets, and those in remote locations who need “turnkey” maintenance support or a pathway to building their own CAMO capabilities.
Veryon and Airbus Helicopters Expand Partnership with New ‘Shared Delegation’ Model
Introducing the Shared Delegation Model
Enhancing CAMO Services and Data Unity
AirPro News Analysis: The Strategic Shift to Digital MRO
Company Background and Integration
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shared Delegation Model?
What software is involved in this partnership?
Who benefits most from this expansion?
Sources
Photo Credit: Veryon
MRO & Manufacturing
Takeover Bids Heat Up for UK Aerospace Supplier Senior Plc
Senior Plc receives takeover proposals from Blackstone-Tinicum and Advent International, sparking a bidding contest in UK aerospace sector.
This article summarizes reporting by Bloomberg News and official statements from Senior Plc.
A potential takeover battle has emerged for Senior Plc, a critical British manufacturer of high-tech components for the aerospace and defense sectors. On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, the company confirmed it has received a preliminary, non-binding acquisition proposal from a consortium comprising Tinicum Incorporated and Blackstone. This development follows reporting by Bloomberg News that identified Blackstone as a key suitor.
The interest in Senior Plc has intensified rapidly, with US private equity firm Advent International also confirming its pursuit of the company. Following the public disclosure of these approaches, shares in Senior Plc surged approximately 20%, signaling strong market anticipation of a competitive auction process. The company’s board had previously rejected five earlier proposals in January and February 2026, stating that the offers “fundamentally undervalued” the business and its future prospects.
According to regulatory filings, the competing parties now face strict deadlines under UK takeover rules. Advent International must announce a firm intention to make an offer or withdraw by March 27, 2026, while the Blackstone and Tinicum consortium has until March 31, 2026, to formalize its bid.
The competing bids represent distinct strategic approaches to capitalizing on the aerospace supply chain recovery. The consortium bid pairs Blackstone, the world’s largest alternative asset manager, with Tinicum Incorporated, a family investment office with a growing footprint in aerospace manufacturing.
Reporting indicates that this joint bid is a continuation of an existing partnership. In November 2025, Tinicum acquired the aerospace division of TriMas Corporation for approximately $1.45 billion, a deal in which Blackstone participated as a minority investor. Tinicum has been aggressively consolidating the sector, recently adding Leggett & Platt’s Aerospace Products Group to its portfolio.
Industry observers note that Senior Plc’s expertise in “fluid conveyance” (such as air ducts and fuel hoses) and thermal management systems would complement Tinicum’s existing assets in fasteners and components. This alignment suggests a strategy focused on building a massive, integrated Tier 1 supplier capable of servicing major OEMs like Boeing and Airbus.
Advent International is a familiar name in the UK defense and industrial landscape. The firm has a track record of executing high-profile acquisitions, including the £4 billion takeover of Cobham in 2020 and the £2.6 billion purchase of Ultra Electronics in 2022. Advent typically employs a strategy of acquiring complex conglomerates and streamlining operations to unlock value. Senior Plc has already undertaken significant restructuring efforts that may make it an attractive target for private equity. In December 2025, the company completed the sale of its lower-margin Aerostructures division to Sullivan Street Partners, pivoting its focus toward its high-margin Flexonics and Aerospace fluid divisions.
Senior Plc remains a vital link in the global aerospace supply-chain, providing components for major commercial platforms including the Boeing 787, Airbus A320neo, and Airbus A220, as well as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. The company’s recent financial performance reflects the broader industry recovery.
According to the company’s 2025 annual report:
The company has also secured significant new business recently, including a multi-year contract with Airbus signed in December 2025 and an $80 million contract with Collins Aerospace awarded in mid-2025.
The aggressive interest in Senior Plc underscores a critical trend we are monitoring in 2026: the “supply chain crunch” valuation premium. As Airbus and Boeing struggle to ramp up production rates to meet record backlogs, the value of reliable, established Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers has skyrocketed. Financial buyers are betting that ownership of these bottleneck assets will provide strategic leverage and steady returns as the cycle matures.
Furthermore, while Senior Plc is less sensitive from a national security perspective than previous targets like Ultra Electronics (which handled nuclear submarine technology), UK regulators remain vigilant regarding foreign ownership of defense assets. However, given Advent’s previous successful navigation of the UK’s National Security and Investment Act, and the Tinicum consortium’s industrial logic, we expect regulatory hurdles to be surmountable, provided specific undertakings regarding UK jobs and R&D are agreed upon.
What is the “Put Up or Shut Up” (PUSU) deadline? Why did Senior Plc reject previous offers?
Bidding War Erupts for UK Aerospace Supplier Senior Plc
The Suitors: Strategic Consolidation vs. Buy-and-Build
The Blackstone and Tinicum Consortium
Advent International
Target Profile: Senior Plc’s Financial Standing
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Under UK takeover rules, a potential bidder must clarify their intentions by a specific date to prevent prolonged uncertainty for the target company. Advent must declare a firm intention to offer by March 27, 2026, and the Blackstone/Tinicum consortium by March 31, 2026.
The Board stated that the five previous preliminary proposals received in early 2026 failed to reflect the true value of the company, particularly following its successful restructuring and the sale of its Aerostructures division.
Sources
Photo Credit: Senior plc
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