MRO & Manufacturing
Airbourne Colours Hangar 9 Nears Completion at Teesside Airport UK
Airbourne Colours expands with Hangar 9 at Teesside Airport, enhancing UK aircraft painting capacity and supporting regional economic growth.
Airbourne Colours’ Hangar 9 at Teesside Airport Nears Completion: A Strategic Boost for UK Aviation
The near completion of Hangar 9 at Teesside International Airport marks a pivotal development for both Airbourne Colours and the broader Tees Valley region. This expansion, led by the UK’s only privately-owned aircraft painting specialist, comes amid surging demand for aircraft maintenance and overhaul services across Europe. The project is not only a testament to the resilience and ambition of regional enterprise but also highlights the evolving role of regional Airports in the UK’s aviation and economic landscape.
Over the past decade, Teesside Airport has undergone a remarkable transformation from the brink of closure to a thriving hub for aviation services. Airbourne Colours’ investment, its second major hangar in as many years, signals growing confidence in Teesside’s future as a center for high-value, skilled employment and specialized aviation activity. The story of Hangar 9 is one of strategic vision, public-private collaboration, and the power of local roots to drive global competitiveness.
Background: Teesside Airport’s Revival and Airbourne Colours’ Growth
Teesside International Airport, acquired by the Tees Valley Combined Authority in 2019, was once facing permanent closure. Public intervention and a ten-year turnaround plan have since reversed its fortunes, with passenger numbers rising from 128,000 in 2017 to 227,000 by 2023. The airport’s strategic pivot towards business aviation, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services has been crucial to its resurgence.
Central to this transformation is Airbourne Colours, founded by Teessider Steve Darbyshire. The company, now employing over 150 people and serving major Airlines like easyJet, Jet2, and Lufthansa, invested £6.5 million in its first Teesside hangar, which opened in October 2024. Demand has outstripped capacity, with a full order book for the next two years, prompting the construction of Hangar 9, a second, larger facility scheduled to open in November 2025.
The airport’s inclusion in the Teesside Freeport, the UK’s largest, has provided additional incentives for investment. Companies operating within the Freeport benefit from tax breaks, simplified customs, and access to a skilled local workforce. This environment has attracted not only Airbourne Colours but also other aviation firms, contributing to over 900 jobs supported by the airport and an annual economic impact exceeding £50 million.
Strategic Investments and Infrastructure
Hangar 9 is part of a broader £12.5 million infrastructure program at Teesside Airport, which includes new taxiways, roads, and business park development. The hangar will accommodate the largest narrow-body aircraft, such as the Airbus A321 and Boeing 737 MAX 10, reflecting the needs of a modern, evolving airline fleet. Construction is being managed by S&A Fabrications, a local contractor that also delivered Airbourne Colours’ first facility.
This strategic investment is designed to maximize synergies among the airport’s tenants. Alongside Airbourne Colours, Willis Aviation Services is building a twin-bay hangar for MRO operations, and Draken is expanding its defense aviation services. The coordinated approach ensures infrastructure supports multiple business lines, amplifying the airport’s economic and operational impact.
The airport’s transformation has been recognized nationally, with awards and increased attention from industry leaders. The business park’s first unit is now complete, and the long-term plan is to create thousands of jobs and attract further high-value manufacturing and service companies to the region.
“The airport’s strategic shift to specialized aviation services has been crucial to its resurgence, creating new value propositions and sustainable financial foundations.”
Hangar 9: Technical Capabilities and Economic Impact
Hangar 9 is engineered to handle the most in-demand aircraft in the European market. Its advanced design incorporates state-of-the-art ventilation, lighting, and environmental controls necessary for modern aircraft painting and refinishing. The facility’s scale and technical sophistication enable Airbourne Colours to serve the growing market for fleet upgrades, airline rebrandings, and routine maintenance.
The economic impact extends far beyond construction costs. The project is expected to create dozens of new skilled jobs, with additional employment generated through supply chains and support services. Airbourne Colours’ partnership with Hartlepool College of Further Education is already preparing the next generation of aircraft painters, with trainees earning salaries well above the regional average upon graduation.
The skills pipeline is supported by public funding from the Tees Valley Combined Authority, ensuring that local residents benefit directly from new opportunities. The airport’s Freeport status further enhances the business case, streamlining international trade and reducing operational costs for companies serving global airline customers.
Market Demand and Competitive Positioning
The European aircraft painting and MRO market is experiencing strong demand, driven by fleet modernization, regulatory changes, and the return of aircraft to service post-pandemic. Airbourne Colours is one of the few independent providers capable of handling Commercial-Aircraft at scale, giving it a competitive edge in a concentrated market.
The company’s focus on narrow-body aircraft aligns with industry trends, as short and medium-haul routes remain the backbone of European air travel. Its operational flexibility, customer service, and technical expertise have secured long-term contracts with leading airlines, ensuring high utilization rates for its facilities.
Teesside’s geographic location offers logistical advantages, with easy access to major European aviation hubs and lower operating costs than more congested airports. The Freeport incentives further enhance its attractiveness to international customers, supporting the airport’s ambition to become a one-stop shop for airline maintenance and overhaul.
“Our order book is full for the next two years. The demand for quality aircraft painting in Europe has never been higher.” — Steve Darbyshire, Managing Director, Airbourne Colours
Workforce Development and Regional Benefits
One of the standout features of the Hangar 9 project is its emphasis on workforce development. Through its partnership with Hartlepool College, Airbourne Colours is offering specialized training programs that address industry needs and provide pathways to well-paid careers. The initial cohort of 24 trainees exemplifies how targeted skills investment can drive social mobility and economic inclusion.
The airport’s cluster of aviation businesses creates further opportunities for apprenticeships and on-the-job training. Willis Aviation Services, for example, has committed to enrolling apprentices across its sites, while Draken’s defense contracts provide additional technical roles. This concentration of expertise supports a resilient, adaptable workforce capable of meeting industry demands.
The multiplier effect of these investments is significant. Local suppliers, logistics providers, and service businesses all benefit from increased activity at the airport. The integration of aviation services with broader manufacturing and engineering capabilities enhances the region’s reputation as a destination for advanced industry.
Regulatory Compliance and Environmental Considerations
Aircraft painting operations are subject to rigorous regulatory oversight, including Civil Aviation Authority standards, environmental controls, and health and safety requirements. Hangar 9 incorporates advanced systems to manage emissions, waste, and chemical handling, ensuring compliance with evolving UK and international standards.
The Freeport designation introduces additional customs and trade procedures, but also simplifies many aspects of international operations. This regulatory environment supports efficient, cost-effective service delivery for both domestic and foreign airline clients.
As environmental concerns grow, facilities like Hangar 9 are investing in technology and best practices to minimize their ecological footprint. This positions Teesside as a leader in sustainable aviation services, capable of meeting the demands of airlines prioritizing green operations.
Conclusion: Strategic Outlook and Future Implications
The imminent completion of Hangar 9 at Teesside Airport is more than a business expansion, it is a symbol of regional renewal, strategic foresight, and the power of public-private collaboration. Airbourne Colours’ success story demonstrates how local entrepreneurship, when paired with supportive infrastructure and policy, can drive global competitiveness in high-value industries.
As the European aviation market continues to evolve, Teesside’s integrated approach, combining technical excellence, workforce development, and strategic investment, offers a blueprint for other regional airports. With a full order book, strong partnerships, and a growing reputation, Airbourne Colours and Teesside Airport are well-positioned to shape the future of UK aviation services and regional economic growth.
FAQ
Q: When will Hangar 9 at Teesside Airport open?
A: Hangar 9 is scheduled to open in November 2025.
Q: What types of aircraft will Hangar 9 accommodate?
A: The facility is designed for large narrow-body aircraft, including the Airbus A321 and Boeing 737 MAX 10.
Q: How is the local community benefiting from this development?
A: The project is creating skilled jobs, offering specialized training programs, and supporting local suppliers, contributing to regional economic growth.
Q: What incentives are available for businesses at Teesside Airport?
A: As part of the Teesside Freeport, businesses benefit from tax breaks, simplified customs, and investment rebates.
Q: Who is leading the Hangar 9 project?
A: Airbourne Colours, founded and led by Steve Darbyshire, is the company behind Hangar 9.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbourne Colours
MRO & Manufacturing
Aviation Aftermarket Consolidation Accelerates in 2026
Lessors, MROs, and parts traders are acquiring assets at pace in 2026 to secure supply chain access amid narrowbody fleet constraints.
The global aviation aftermarket is experiencing a wave of structural consolidation as lessors, maintenance providers, and manufacturers aggressively acquire assets and repair capacity to mitigate severe supply chain constraints.
According to a market overview published on August 28, 2026, by Locatory, the open market for aircraft parts and repairs is tightening. Driven by delayed retirements of narrowbody aircraft like the Boeing 737NG and Airbus A320ceo, companies are prioritizing guaranteed access to traceable inventory and repair slots to prevent Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations.
Strategic acquisitions reshape the supply chain
The push for inventory control has driven high-value acquisitions throughout 2026. On May 12, 2026, VSE Corporation acquired Precision Aviation Group (PAG) for $2.025 billion in cash and equity, scaling its global aftermarket platform for engines, avionics, and components.
On August 31, 2026, Altitude Parts acquired the aircraft parts inventory and warehouse operations of Fly Alliance. The transaction included 42,000 individual components sourced from 156 aircraft disassembly projects. This expansion brings the total value of assets at the Altitude Parts facility in Orlando to over $150 million.
Aircraft lessors are also moving downstream to secure lifecycle control. On August 3, 2026, ORIX Aviation signed an agreement to acquire aftermarket specialist AerFin, broadening its capabilities from leasing to end-of-life part-out solutions.
MRO providers secure long-term capacity
Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) providers are simultaneously locking in long-term repair capacity. On July 15, 2026, AvAir acquired Full Stop Technics. AvAir Chief Executive Officer Mike Bianco stated the deal “strengthens AvAir’s aftermarket platform by adding certified wheel and brake MRO capabilities” under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards.
Physical footprint consolidation is another strategy to improve turnaround times. On August 20, 2026, Ontic reported progress on merging its United Kingdom MRO operations into a single, purpose-built facility in Tewkesbury.
Locatory.com data indicates that engine Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are expanding their proprietary shop networks, while airlines are increasingly bringing maintenance operations in-house to bypass external bottlenecks.
AirPro News analysis
We observe a definitive shift in the aviation aftermarket from open-market sourcing to vertical integration. As new aircraft delivery delays force operators to extend the lifecycles of legacy narrowbody fleets, the demand for Used Serviceable Material (USM) has outpaced available supply. By acquiring independent parts traders and specialized repair shops, major lessors and MROs are effectively hoarding market access. We expect this consolidation velocity to persist through the end of the decade, leaving unaligned operators highly vulnerable to extended AOG events and premium pricing for critical components.
Sources: Locatory
Photo Credit: Locatory
MRO & Manufacturing
Bombardier Acquires MHICA Assets in Mississauga Ontario
Bombardier acquires MHI Canada Aerospace assets in Mississauga, adding 750 employees and aerostructures production for its business jets.
Bombardier Inc. is bringing a critical segment of its aerostructures supply chain in-house through the acquisition of MHI Canada Aerospace, Inc. (MHICA) assets in Mississauga, Ontario. Announced on September 1, 2026, the transaction transfers manufacturing control of key components for the Bombardier Global and Challenger business jet programs directly to the Canadian airframer.
In a press release issued on September 1, 2026, Bombardier confirmed the agreement with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), which will see approximately 750 skilled MHICA employees join the Bombardier workforce. The acquisition aligns with a broader aerospace industry trend of original equipment manufacturers vertically integrating their supply chains to mitigate production bottlenecks and ensure operational resilience.
Expanding Ontario manufacturing capacity
The transaction significantly increases Bombardier’s industrial footprint in the Toronto area. The acquired assets include a 270,000-square-foot manufacturing facility and a 70,000-square-foot logistics center in Mississauga.
MHICA has served as a long-time supplier for Bombardier. The Mississauga facilities produce major aerostructures, including wing assemblies, fuselage sections, and flight control installations for the Bombardier Global 5500, Bombardier Global 6500, and Bombardier Challenger 3500 business jets.
David Murray, Bombardier’s Executive Vice President of Manufacturing, Supply Chain Execution and BOE System, stated that the agreement represents a key step in the company’s long-term growth strategy.
“With this acquisition, we are deepening our core manufacturing expertise as well as our commitment to proactively develop the local workforce through multiple streams in component manufacturing and whole aircraft assembly,” Murray said.
Transition and supply chain strategy
The transaction is expected to close later in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Neither Bombardier nor MHI disclosed the financial terms of the acquisition.
To ensure continuity of operations, MHI will provide transitional support for an interim period following the closing. Hiroyuki Koguchi, Executive Vice President and Head of Commercial Aviation Systems at MHI, noted that the agreement ensures a stable future for the Mississauga workforce whose expertise has been central to the facility’s success.
Sandra Hodgkinson, Bombardier’s Senior Vice President of Strategy & M&A, described the move as a mutually beneficial agreement that reinforces the company’s supply chain and enhances its ability to meet sustained demand for its aircraft portfolio.
AirPro News analysis
We view this acquisition as a textbook defensive maneuver in the current aerospace manufacturing environment. By absorbing MHICA, Bombardier is insulating its most profitable business jet programs from the tier-one supplier volatility that has plagued the broader aviation industry over the past three years. Taking direct control of wing and fuselage production for the Bombardier Global 5500, Bombardier Global 6500, and Bombardier Challenger 3500 allows the airframer to dictate production pacing without relying on external contract negotiations or competing for supplier bandwidth. Securing 750 specialized aerospace workers in the highly competitive Ontario labor market may prove just as valuable as the physical manufacturing space.
Sources: Bombardier Inc.
Photo Credit: MHI Canada Aerospace, Inc.
MRO & Manufacturing
SIAEC Completes 30% Stake Acquisition in Arport AME Fujian
SIAEC finalizes RMB 129M acquisition of a 30% stake in Arport AME, forming an MRO joint venture across Fujian province.
SIA Engineering Company Limited (SIAEC) has finalized the acquisition of a 30% equity stake in Arport Aircraft Maintenance & Engineering (Fujian) Co., Ltd. (Arport AME) through its wholly-owned subsidiary, officially establishing a new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) joint venture in East China.
In a press release issued on August 26, 2026, SIAEC confirmed the completion of the transaction, which expands the company’s footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. The joint venture partners SIAEC with Xiamen Iport Group (IPORT Group) to capture growing commercial aviation maintenance demand across Fujian province.
Transaction details and equity structure
The finalization follows a public tender administered by the Xiamen Equity Exchange Centre, which SIAEC won in March 2026. According to historical reporting by Aviation Business News, SIAEC paid a subscription consideration of RMB 129 million for the shareholding.
Following the completion, Arport (Xiamen) International Airport Co., Ltd. retains a 38.5% stake in the enlarged share capital, while Arport (Fuzhou) International Airport Co., Ltd. holds the remaining 31.5%. SIAEC stated that the transaction is not expected to have a material impact on its consolidated net tangible assets or earnings per share for the financial year ending March 31, 2027.
Operational scope in Fujian province
The newly formalized joint venture will provide line maintenance and ground services across a network of regional airports. Operations will cover facilities in Xiamen, Fuzhou, Wuyishan, and Longyan.
Beyond immediate line maintenance capabilities, Arport AME is positioning itself for future base maintenance operations. The joint venture plans to offer base maintenance services at the upcoming Xiamen Xiang’an airport, targeting both domestic and international carriers operating within the East China market.
AirPro News analysis
We view this finalized joint venture as a calculated expansion by SIAEC into a high-growth regional market. By partnering with IPORT Group, which already controls the primary airport infrastructure in Fujian, SIAEC secures immediate operational access without the friction of building a network from scratch. The multi-year timeline from the initial September 2023 memorandum of understanding to this final completion highlights the regulatory and structural complexities of establishing foreign-backed MRO entities in China. The inclusion of base maintenance at the future Xiamen Xiang’an airport indicates a long-term strategy to capture heavy maintenance contracts rather than relying solely on transit line maintenance.
Sources: SIA Engineering Company Limited
Photo Credit: SIA Engineering Company Limited
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