MRO & Manufacturing
HAECO and Liebherr Strengthen Maintenance for COMAC Aircraft
HAECO and Liebherr-Aerospace partner to enhance hydraulic maintenance for COMAC’s C909 and C919, boosting China’s aerospace MRO capabilities.
As China’s aviation sector continues its rapid ascent, the development and maintenance of indigenous aircraft have become national priorities. The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) sits at the heart of this ambition, with its flagship models, the C919 and C909, representing key milestones in the country’s push to reduce reliance on Western aerospace giants like Boeing and Airbus.
To support the operational longevity and reliability of these aircraft, COMAC has increasingly sought to establish a robust Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem. A recent partnership between HAECO, a leading MRO service provider, and Liebherr-Aerospace, a recognized Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs), marks a significant step in this direction. Their collaboration focuses on the maintenance of hydraulic components for both the C909 and C919 aircraft, aiming to deliver localized, efficient, and high-quality support.
This article explores the implications of this partnership, the strategic motivations behind it, and how it fits into the broader context of China’s aerospace ambitions and global MRO market trends.
COMAC’s C919 is China’s first domestically developed narrowbody jet, designed to compete with the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX. Alongside it, the C909, formerly known as the ARJ21, serves as a regional jet aimed at short-haul routes. These aircraft are central to China’s strategy to build a self-reliant aviation sector, both in manufacturing and ongoing operational support.
As of 2024, there are 20 C919s in active service and 151 C909s, including seven operated by international carriers. COMAC has ambitious plans to scale production, with targets to deliver 30 C919s in 2025 and ramp up to 200 annually by 2029. These figures underscore the urgent need for a reliable and scalable MRO infrastructure to support fleet growth.
Historically, Chinese airlines have depended on foreign MRO providers, particularly for advanced systems like hydraulics and avionics. This reliance has posed challenges, including high costs, longer turnaround times, and limited control over critical maintenance processes. The partnership between HAECO and Liebherr-Aerospace seeks to address these gaps by localizing component maintenance capabilities within China.
Driven by strong domestic demand and state-backed investment, COMAC’s production capabilities have expanded significantly. The C919 has amassed over 1,000 Orders, primarily from Chinese carriers such as Air China and China Eastern Airlines. Meanwhile, the C909 continues to serve as a testbed for operational procedures and maintenance routines that will be applied to the C919.
COMAC plans to invest approximately $4.7 billion in 2025 to enhance its production infrastructure and supply chain partnerships. This includes expanding its collaboration with key players like HAECO and Liebherr-Aerospace, ensuring that maintenance services can keep pace with delivery schedules and airline operational needs. By integrating MRO capabilities into its aircraft lifecycle, COMAC aims to offer airlines a comprehensive support package, potentially making its aircraft more attractive to international buyers who prioritize service reliability and cost-efficiency.
HAECO brings decades of MRO experience, with facilities across Asia and a reputation for high-quality service delivery. Its financial performance in 2024 reflects strong growth, with a recurring profit of HK$672 million, up from HK$465 million the previous year. This financial strength allows HAECO to invest in expanding its component maintenance capabilities, including hydraulic systems critical to aircraft operation.
Liebherr-Aerospace, on the other hand, is a globally recognized OEM specializing in flight control and hydraulic systems. In 2024, the Liebherr Group reported revenues of €14.6 billion, with aerospace identified as a key growth driver. The company’s expertise in designing and manufacturing complex systems complements HAECO’s maintenance capabilities, creating a synergistic partnership.
The agreement between the two companies builds on an existing collaboration for landing gear maintenance on the C909, extending their cooperation to more complex hydraulic components. These include systems responsible for flight control surfaces, landing gear actuation, and braking, areas where maintenance precision is critical for safety and performance.
“This partnership combines HAECO’s MRO know-how with our OEM capabilities, delivering efficient solutions for China’s commercial jets.”, Eric Thévenot, General Manager, Liebherr-Aerospace China
The HAECO-Liebherr agreement is not just a bilateral business deal; it reflects broader shifts in the global aviation landscape. As China seeks to reduce its dependence on foreign aerospace suppliers, the localization of MRO services becomes a strategic imperative. This is particularly relevant in the context of geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions that have affected the aviation industry globally.
According to market research from Spherical Insights, China’s aerospace MRO market is projected to reach $65.6 billion by 2035, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6%. Key growth areas include engine overhaul, component repair, and avionics maintenance. The HAECO-Liebherr partnership is well-positioned to capture a share of this expanding market by offering OEM-backed, in-country maintenance solutions.
Moreover, the collaboration aligns with a global trend toward regionalizing MRO services. Airlines are increasingly seeking maintenance providers that can offer quick turnaround times and reduce logistical complexities. By establishing hydraulic component support within China, HAECO and Liebherr not only meet COMAC’s needs but also position themselves as potential service providers for other regional operators flying the C909 and C919.
Industry experts view the partnership as a model for future collaborations between OEMs and MRO providers. By combining design expertise with operational know-how, such alliances can deliver more efficient and reliable maintenance outcomes. Sandra Nieuwenhuijzen, HAECO Group Director of Component and Engine Services, emphasized this point, stating that the collaboration will enhance operational efficiency and reliability for COMAC and its operators. Analysts also note that the partnership addresses a critical bottleneck in China’s aerospace strategy: the lack of mature, localized MRO capabilities. By investing in these services now, COMAC can ensure that its aircraft remain competitive not just in terms of purchase price but also in lifecycle support, a key consideration for airlines.
Finally, the agreement may encourage other OEMs to explore similar partnerships in China and other emerging markets, further decentralizing the global MRO landscape and fostering innovation through cross-border collaboration.
The partnership between HAECO and Liebherr-Aerospace represents a strategic milestone in China’s journey toward aerospace self-sufficiency. By localizing critical maintenance services for COMAC’s C909 and C919 aircraft, the collaboration enhances operational reliability and reduces dependence on foreign MRO providers. This move not only supports COMAC’s production targets but also strengthens its value proposition to both domestic and international customers.
Looking ahead, the success of this partnership could serve as a blueprint for other nations seeking to build indigenous aerospace capabilities. As the global aviation industry continues to evolve, collaborations that combine OEM precision with MRO agility will likely become the norm rather than the exception.
What aircraft are covered under the HAECO-Liebherr partnership? Why is this partnership significant? What are COMAC’s production targets for the C919? Who are the key players in this partnership? What is the projected size of China’s MRO market? Sources:
HAECO and Liebherr-Aerospace Strengthen COMAC Aircraft Maintenance Capabilities
Background: COMAC’s Fleet and China’s Aviation Strategy
COMAC’s Production and Fleet Expansion
HAECO and Liebherr: Strategic Fit
Strategic Implications and Industry Trends
Expert Commentary and Industry Reactions
Conclusion: A Step Toward Aerospace Independence
FAQ
The agreement covers hydraulic component maintenance for COMAC’s C909 and C919 aircraft.
It supports China’s goal of building a self-reliant aviation industry by localizing critical MRO services.
COMAC aims to produce 30 C919 aircraft in 2025 and scale up to 200 annually by 2029.
HAECO, a leading MRO provider, and Liebherr-Aerospace, an OEM specializing in hydraulic systems.
The market is expected to reach $65.6 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 11.6%.
HAECO Press Release,
Aviation Week,
Spherical Insights,
Liebherr Group Report,
ePlane AI
Photo Credit: HAECO
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
MRO & Manufacturing
Embraer and Hindalco Sign MoU to Explore Aerospace Aluminum in India
Embraer and Hindalco sign MoU to assess manufacturing aerospace-grade aluminum in India, supporting local supply chains and Embraer’s aircraft bid.
This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.
On February 20, 2026, Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hindalco Industries Ltd., the metals flagship of the Aditya Birla Group. The agreement establishes a framework to evaluate the manufacturing of aerospace-grade aluminum raw materials within India, marking a significant step in Embraer’s efforts to diversify its global Supply-Chain.
According to the company’s official statement, the partnership aims to identify local partners capable of supplying high-performance materials for the aerospace sector. This initiative directly supports the Indian government’s “Make in India” program, which encourages multinational corporations to manufacture products domestically.
The collaboration focuses on conducting exploratory activities to assess the feasibility of producing specific aluminum alloys required for Manufacturing. By tapping into Hindalco’s established industrial capabilities, Embraer seeks to build a more resilient and localized supply network.
Roberto Chaves, Executive Vice President of Global Procurement and Supply Chain at Embraer, emphasized the long-term strategic value of the agreement in a statement released by the company:
“This joint action reinforces our focus to identifying local partners that can become our suppliers and, in doing so, accelerate the development of the Indian industrial base. The initiative enhances Embraer’s engagement to advancing the aerospace ecosystem in India, creating long-term value across the entire supply chain.”
Hindalco Industries is recognized globally for its Sustainability practices, having been ranked as the world’s most sustainable aluminum company by the S&P Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for five consecutive years (2020–2024). The company’s subsidiary, Hindalco-Almex Aerospace Limited (HAAL), is currently the only manufacturer of aerospace and defense-grade aluminum alloys in India, holding the critical AS9100 Certification.
While the press release focuses on material sourcing, industry observers note that this move aligns with Embraer’s broader campaign to secure defense Contracts in India. Embraer is currently positioning its C-390 Millennium aircraft for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) tender.
To bolster its bid, Embraer has previously partnered with Mahindra to establish a local assembly line should the C-390 be selected. Integrating Hindalco into the supply chain for raw materials would significantly increase the indigenous content of the aircraft, making the proposal more attractive under India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) defense procurement policies. The partnership also addresses environmental goals shared by both entities. Embraer has committed to achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040. Hindalco’s focus on “green aluminum” and its subsidiary Novelis’s leadership in aluminum recycling provide a pathway for Embraer to reduce the lifecycle carbon footprint of its aircraft. The use of recycled secondary aluminum and lightweight alloys is a growing trend in aerospace engineering designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
We view this MoU as a calculated geopolitical and logistical maneuver by Embraer. Post-pandemic supply chain disruptions have forced major OEMs to move away from single-source dependencies. By establishing a foothold in India, Embraer is not only mitigating risk but also aggressively courting the Indian defense sector.
For Hindalco, this validates its transition from a raw material supplier to a specialized aerospace partner. If this exploratory phase leads to a definitive supply agreement, it could position India as a critical node in the global high-tech manufacturing network, moving the country beyond simple assembly roles and into the production of complex, high-value metallurgical components.
What is the primary goal of the MoU? Who is Hindalco Industries? How does this relate to the C-390 Millennium? Is this a binding manufacturing contract?
Embraer and Hindalco Sign Strategic MoU to Explore Aerospace Aluminum Manufacturing in India
Strengthening the Supply Chain
Strategic Context: The C-390 Millennium Bid
Sustainability Alignment
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The Memorandum of Understanding aims to evaluate the feasibility of manufacturing aerospace-grade aluminum in India to support Embraer’s global supply chain.
Hindalco is an Indian aluminum and copper manufacturing company, part of the Aditya Birla Group. It is a global leader in sustainable aluminum production and recycling.
Sourcing raw materials locally in India strengthens Embraer’s bid for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft contract by increasing the “indigenous content” of their proposal.
No. Currently, it is an MoU to conduct “exploratory activities” and assess potential business opportunities. Definitive agreements would likely follow successful evaluations.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer
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