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.
HAECO and Liebherr-Aerospace Strengthen COMAC Aircraft Maintenance 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.
Background: COMAC’s Fleet and China’s Aviation Strategy
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.
COMAC’s Production and Fleet Expansion
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 and Liebherr: Strategic Fit
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
Strategic Implications and Industry Trends
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.
Expert Commentary and Industry Reactions
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.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Aerospace Independence
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.
FAQ
What aircraft are covered under the HAECO-Liebherr partnership?
The agreement covers hydraulic component maintenance for COMAC’s C909 and C919 aircraft.
Why is this partnership significant?
It supports China’s goal of building a self-reliant aviation industry by localizing critical MRO services.
What are COMAC’s production targets for the C919?
COMAC aims to produce 30 C919 aircraft in 2025 and scale up to 200 annually by 2029.
Who are the key players in this partnership?
HAECO, a leading MRO provider, and Liebherr-Aerospace, an OEM specializing in hydraulic systems.
What is the projected size of China’s MRO market?
The market is expected to reach $65.6 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 11.6%.
Sources:
HAECO Press Release,
Aviation Week,
Spherical Insights,
Liebherr Group Report,
ePlane AI
Photo Credit: HAECO
MRO & Manufacturing
Collins Aerospace Invests $26.5M to Expand Largo Facility
Collins Aerospace invests $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida facility, creating 100+ jobs and boosting FAA radar production by 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from RTX.
Collins Aerospace, a business unit of aerospace and defense giant RTX, has announced a $26.5 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Largo, Florida. The strategic capital injection is designed to accelerate the manufacturing of commercial aviation radars and multi-domain security solutions tailored for defense customers.
According to the official company press release, the expansion project will generate over 100 new highly skilled jobs. These positions will span various disciplines, including engineering and factory operations, further bolstering the local high-tech workforce.
We understand that the investments comes at a critical time for both commercial aviation and military defense sectors, which are increasingly reliant on advanced, interoperable surveillance systems.
Boosting Radar Production and Security Solutions
The $26.5 million investment will primarily fund the development of a new, state-of-the-art Radar-Systems production area within the existing Largo footprint. According to the company, this new section of the facility is targeted to become fully operational by late 2026.
A key focus of the expanded facility will be manufacturing equipment for the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Radar System Replacement Program. Specifically, the Largo site will produce the Condor Mk3 cooperative surveillance radar and the ASR-XM non-cooperative radar system, both of which are critical for modernizing national airspace infrastructure.
“As global airspace becomes more congested and contested, customers need secure, interoperable systems for seamless coordination. This expansion strengthens our ability to deliver critical capabilities that keep airline passengers safe and military operators mission-ready, faster.”
In the company press release, Nate Boelkins, president of Avionics at Collins Aerospace, highlighted the dual-use nature of the technology, emphasizing its importance for both commercial passenger safety and military mission readiness.
Economic Impact and RTX’s Footprint in Florida
The Largo facility expansion represents a continued commitment by RTX to the state of Florida. The aerospace conglomerate has maintained a significant operational presence in the state for more than four decades. Currently, RTX employs more than 7,000 people across eight major locations throughout Florida.
The local economic impact extends beyond the immediate creation of over 100 engineering and factory jobs. Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly stated in the release that the expansion strengthens Florida’s position as a hub for aviation manufacturing and national security initiatives.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that this $26.5 million investment aligns with broader aerospace industry trends focused on modernizing aging air traffic control infrastructure and enhancing multi-domain defense capabilities. RTX, which reported 2025 sales exceeding $88 billion and employs over 180,000 people globally, is strategically allocating capital to facilities that directly support high-priority government Contracts, such as the FAA’s radar replacement efforts. By expanding domestic manufacturing capacity in Florida, Collins Aerospace is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for advanced, secure surveillance technologies without relying heavily on outsourced production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment by Collins Aerospace in the Largo facility?
Collins Aerospace is investing $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida manufacturing site.
When will the new radar production area be operational?
According to the official press release, the new radar production area is expected to become fully operational by late 2026.
How many jobs will the expansion create?
The project is projected to create over 100 new highly skilled jobs, primarily in engineering and factory operations disciplines.
What specific systems will be produced at the expanded facility?
The facility will produce commercial aviation radars and defense security solutions, including the Condor Mk3 cooperative surveillance radar and the ASR-XM non-cooperative radar system for the FAA’s Radar System Replacement Program.
Sources
Photo Credit: RTX
MRO & Manufacturing
Satair Finalizes Acquisition of Unical Aviation and ecube
Satair completes acquisition of Unical Aviation and ecube, expanding its global Used Serviceable Material and aircraft lifecycle solutions.
This article is based on an official press release from Satair.
Satair, an Airbus company, has officially finalized its Acquisitions of Unical Aviation Inc. and its subsidiary, ecube. Announced in a company press release on May 11, 2026, the milestone merges Unical’s extensive parts inventory and ecube’s disassembly expertise with Satair’s existing operations.
The integration forms a massive end-to-end global provider of Used Serviceable Material (USM) and aircraft lifecycle solutions. According to industry data, the combined Unical and ecube entities bring seven operational sites across North America and Europe, a 2024 combined revenue of $298 million, and a workforce of 413 employees into the Airbus subsidiary’s portfolio.
This strategic move highlights a broader aviation industry shift toward the circular economy, as Airlines and maintenance providers increasingly rely on USM to navigate supply chain bottlenecks, reduce costs, and meet Sustainability targets.
Industrializing the Aircraft Lifecycle
The acquisition significantly expands Satair’s industrial footprint. By integrating Unical and ecube’s major operational sites in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Spain, Satair aims to provide a seamless, “one-stop shop” for material flow. According to the press release, this flow encompasses everything from aircraft storage and disassembly to technical repair management and global distribution.
The combined operations will now begin a coordinated integration process, focusing on aligning efforts across Satair, Unical, ecube, and VAS Aero Services to deliver a well-connected customer experience.
Leadership Restructuring
To ensure strategic alignment across its USM business units, Satair announced key leadership changes in its official statement. Sharon Green, who has served as CEO of Unical since late 2021, will now take on the dual role of CEO for both Unical and VAS Aero Services. Meanwhile, Tommy Hughes, the former CEO of VAS Aero Services, transitions to his full-time responsibilities as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Satair. Richard Stoddart remains at the helm as CEO of Satair and Head of Airbus Material Services.
“Bringing Unical and ecube into our business isn’t just about getting bigger, it’s about leveraging the circular economy to the benefit of our customers,” stated Richard Stoddart, CEO of Satair, in the official release.
The Road to Acquisition
The path to this finalized deal, initially announced in November 2025, involves several years of strategic positioning by multiple entities. Satair made its initial major push into the USM market in July 2022 with the acquisition of VAS Aero Services.
Unical Aviation, founded in 1990, underwent its own transformation under the stewardship of private equity firm Platinum Equity, which acquired the supplier in August 2021. During this four-year period, industry reports note that Unical relocated its headquarters to Coolidge, Arizona, modernized its technology, and acquired ecube in 2024 to bring teardown capabilities in-house.
“Unical is exiting our stewardship as a stronger, more competitive platform, and we believe it is well placed to continue building momentum under Satair and Airbus,” noted Jacob Kotzubei, Co-President of Platinum Equity, according to industry research.
ecube’s Role in the Circular Economy
ecube brings specialized expertise in aircraft storage, disassembly, and transition services to the Satair portfolio. Operating out of St Athan (Wales), Castellón (Spain), and Coolidge (Arizona), the company is noted in industry reports for enabling the reuse or recycling of at least 93% of materials from every disassembled aircraft.
Market Implications and Growth
The timing of Satair’s expansion aligns with surging demand in the Used Serviceable Material sector. Industry estimates project the USM market will reach between $5.87 billion and $7.64 billion in 2025, with potential growth up to $10.86 billion by 2033.
“I’m proud of what our teams have built and confident that together we will deliver a true end-to-end lifecycle solution that improves material availability, extends asset life, and creates meaningful value for customers worldwide,” added Sharon Green in the company statement.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that airlines and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operators are increasingly turning to USM to combat material inflation and offset long lead times for new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) parts. Utilizing USM can save airlines up to 30–40% on MRO expenses, particularly for high-value components like engines and avionics. Furthermore, this acquisition heavily supports the aviation industry’s sustainability goals. By industrializing the USM lifecycle, companies can maximize the lifespan of existing assets, reduce waste, and establish responsible material practices that lower the carbon footprint of aircraft maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What companies did Satair acquire?
Satair, an Airbus company, acquired Unical Aviation Inc. and its subsidiary, ecube.
When was the acquisition finalized?
The transaction officially closed following regulatory approvals on May 11, 2026.
How does this impact the aviation supply chain?
It creates a unified global provider for Used Serviceable Material (USM), offering airlines a “one-stop shop” for aircraft storage, disassembly, and parts distribution, which helps alleviate supply chain shortages and reduce maintenance costs.
Sources
- Satair Press Release
- Industry Research Report
Photo Credit: Satair
MRO & Manufacturing
Liebherr-Aerospace Expands MRO in Shanghai with Sustainable Coating
Liebherr-Aerospace expands its Shanghai facility with a REACH-compliant coating process for aircraft heat transfer equipment, approved by CAAC, EASA, and FAA.
This article is based on an official press release from Liebherr-Aerospace.
Liebherr-Aerospace Expands MRO Footprint in China with Sustainable Coating Technology
On May 11, 2026, Liebherr-Aerospace announced a major expansion of its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities at its Shanghai facility. According to the company’s press release, this development centers on a newly dedicated 800-square-meter area designed specifically for the testing, re-coring, and maintenance of aircraft heat transfer equipment.
A key highlight of this expansion is the introduction of a REACH-compliant Trivalent Chromium System (TCS) and Post Application Conversion Sealer (PACS) coating process. Liebherr states it is the first MRO provider to offer this environmentally friendly coating service to airline customers within China, marking a significant step forward in regional aviation sustainability.
By localizing these advanced chemical and mechanical processes, Liebherr aims to reduce turnaround times and eliminate the carbon footprint associated with shipping parts overseas. This move aligns with broader industry trends prioritizing supply chain resilience and environmental responsibility.
Technical Advancements and Environmental Compliance
The newly introduced TCS and PACS processes represent a shift away from legacy chromium-based treatments, which have historically posed severe environmental and health risks. As detailed in the company’s announcement, the TCS enhances metal corrosion resistance and paint adhesion, while the PACS seals and reinforces the protective layer to ensure long-term durability.
Crucially, this new process complies with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals), a stringent European Union regulatory framework designed to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals. Prior to its industrialization in Shanghai, the coating process underwent extensive validation at Liebherr’s Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) site in Toulouse, France.
Regulatory Approvals
Ensuring that localized MRO services meet global safety standards is paramount for aviation suppliers. The press release confirms that the new coating process has secured critical certifications from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). Furthermore, the process holds global recognition from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Strategic Implications for the Asian Market
The 800-square-meter expansion allows Liebherr to perform all upcoming maintenance work for heat transfer equipment entirely in-house in Shanghai. This localization strategy directly benefits Chinese airlines operating Airbus, Boeing, and COMAC fleets by mitigating international transportation delays and reducing reliance on European or American facilities for specialized chemical treatments.
Leadership Perspective
The company views this milestone as a testament to its cross-border collaboration and its commitment to future-proofing its services for the Asian market.
“This milestone highlights the strong collaboration between our teams in China and our OEM organization. By introducing the REACH-compliant TCS/PACS coating process, we are strengthening the sustainability of our services while maintaining the highest technical standards. Ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory frameworks also prepares our customers in China for future environmental requirements.”
, Eric Thévenot, General Manager, Customer Services & MRO, Liebherr China Co., Ltd.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Liebherr-Aerospace’s Shanghai expansion is a calculated component of a much larger, multi-year global MRO strategy designed to capture surging post-pandemic aviation demand. Industry data indicates that earlier in 2026, Liebherr successfully industrialized this exact TCS/PACS process at its MRO site in Singapore.
The concurrent expansion of facilities in Saline (Michigan, USA), Lindenberg (Germany), Guaratinguetá (Brazil), and the opening of a new service center in Dubai indicate a clear industry shift toward localized, OEM-quality maintenance. For the rapidly growing Chinese commercial aviation market, having in-country access to REACH-compliant, CAAC-approved MRO services not only streamlines daily operations but also insulates regional supply chains against global logistical disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TCS/PACS process?
TCS (Trivalent Chromium System) and PACS (Post Application Conversion Sealer) form an environmentally friendly, REACH-compliant coating process used to protect aircraft heat transfer equipment from corrosion, replacing highly toxic legacy chromium-based treatments.
Where is Liebherr’s new MRO expansion located?
The 800-square-meter expansion dedicated to heat transfer equipment maintenance is located at Liebherr’s existing facility in Shanghai, China.
Which regulatory bodies have approved this new process?
The new coating process has been approved by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Sources
Photo Credit: Liebherr-Aerospace
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