MRO & Manufacturing
BCT Aviation Maintenance Expands EASA Approval for Boeing 737 C Checks
BCT Aviation Maintenance enhances EASA base maintenance approval for Boeing 737 C Checks at East Midlands Airport, strengthening UK MRO services.
BCT Aviation Maintenance’s Strategic Enhancement: EASA Base Maintenance Approval Expansion and Its Implications for the UK MRO Industry
BCT Aviation Maintenance’s recent achievement of enhanced EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) base maintenance approval to include C Check capabilities for Boeing 737 series aircraft marks a pivotal advancement in the UK’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector. This expansion, implemented at their Hangar 30 facility at East Midlands Airport, enables the company to deliver a broad spectrum of maintenance services, including 6 to 48-month checks, flight hour tasks up to 20,000 hours, and flight cycle tasks up to 10,000 cycles. This development underscores BCT Aviation Maintenance’s commitment to expanding its technical offerings within a UK MRO market valued at over USD 3.6 billion in 2023 and projected to grow further by 2030.
Strategically located at East Midlands Airport, the UK’s second-largest cargo hub, BCT Aviation Maintenance’s growth takes place within a broader European MRO market that is forecast to expand at over 5% CAGR through 2030. The company’s enhanced approval not only improves its competitive positioning but also reflects broader trends in the aviation maintenance industry, such as increasing regulatory requirements, technological advancements, and the need for skilled engineering talent.
This article explores the significance of BCT’s recent approval, the company’s background and capabilities, the regulatory environment, industry standards for C Check maintenance, and the strategic implications for both the company and the UK MRO sector as a whole.
Company Background and Strategic Positioning
BCT Aviation Maintenance has established a strong presence in the UK aviation maintenance sector over more than 20 years of operation. Founded in 1996 and still led by its original founder, Robert Brown, the company is headquartered at East Midlands Airport and has evolved from a regional provider into a global platform supporting airlines, lessors, and VVIP operators. BCT holds both UK CAA and EASA Part 145 certifications, a testament to its adherence to the highest safety and reliability standards in the industry.
The company operates across five locations in the UK and Ireland, serving a diverse portfolio of clients that includes over 50 airlines such as BA City Flyer and Air India. BCT’s workforce, numbering between 100 and 200 employees, is composed of highly experienced engineers with deep industry knowledge, enabling the company to service aircraft from all major manufacturers, including Boeing, Airbus, Embraer, BAe, ATR, Dornier, and Bombardier.
BCT’s service offerings are comprehensive, ranging from line and base maintenance to livery and paint support, end-of-lease services, and managed aircraft parking. The company’s regulatory credentials are further bolstered by FAA approval, received in 2020, allowing it to support aircraft registered in the United States. Its capabilities span a wide array of commercial aircraft, including the entire Boeing 737 series (Classic, NG, and MAX), as well as Airbus A320 family, A330, A340, and Embraer regional jets.
“BCT Aviation Maintenance has built its reputation on safety, reliability, and technical expertise, positioning itself as a trusted partner for airlines and lessors across the globe.”
EASA Part 145 Certification Framework and Regulatory Significance
The EASA Part 145 approval is a cornerstone of regulatory compliance for European aircraft maintenance organizations. It sets rigorous standards for facility infrastructure, personnel qualifications, equipment, documentation, and safety protocols. Organizations must demonstrate robust quality systems, detailed maintenance procedures, and comprehensive occurrence reporting to ensure ongoing compliance and operational safety.
Obtaining and maintaining Part 145 approval requires organizations to have qualified certifying staff, proper equipment, and clear operational procedures documented in a Maintenance Organization Exposition (MOE). The approval process also involves thorough business planning to demonstrate technical, financial, and operational readiness. Regulatory compliance is constantly monitored, and failure to adhere to these standards can result in loss of approval and reputational damage.
Recent regulatory updates, such as new Safety Management System (SMS) requirements and enhanced cybersecurity protocols, reflect the increasing complexity of aviation maintenance. Organizations must now implement systematic risk management, information security measures, and modernized training programs to keep pace with evolving industry standards and technological advancements.
“Without robust regulations and standards like EASA Part 145, maintenance organizations could compromise safety through cost-cutting, underscoring the importance of strong oversight in the aviation sector.”
C Check Maintenance Procedures and Industry Standards
C Check maintenance is a critical, in-depth inspection that occurs every 18 to 24 months for commercial aircraft such as the Boeing 737. This process involves removing the aircraft from service for one to four weeks to allow for detailed examination and servicing of structural, mechanical, and avionics systems. Tasks include inspecting exteriors, fluid levels, brakes, avionics, engines, landing gear, and performing necessary repairs or replacements.
Costs for C Check maintenance can be substantial. For Boeing 737NG aircraft, industry benchmarks place average C Check costs between USD 222,000 and 272,000, with older models incurring higher expenses due to increased wear and the need for more frequent repairs. The average cost per flight hour for C Check maintenance varies significantly by aircraft age and type, highlighting the importance of efficient scheduling and provider selection to manage operational economics.
BCT Aviation Maintenance’s expanded EASA approval covers 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 48-month checks, as well as up to 20,000 flight hour and 10,000 flight cycle tasks. The company also handles specialized structural inspections, providing operators with a one-stop solution for comprehensive Boeing 737 maintenance needs.
East Midlands Airport: Strategic Advantages and Market Context
East Midlands Airport offers significant advantages for BCT Aviation Maintenance. As the UK’s second-largest cargo hub, the airport handles over 440,000 tonnes of cargo annually and operates 24/7 without slot restrictions. Its central location means it is within a four-hour drive of 90% of England and Wales’ population, making it a crucial logistics and maintenance center for both passenger and cargo operations.
The airport’s infrastructure supports large aircraft operations, with a nearly 2,900-meter runway and extensive cargo facilities. Major cargo carriers such as DHL, UPS, FedEx, and Royal Mail operate from the airport, and recent investments, like UPS’s £138 million cargo hub, underscore its growing importance in the international logistics network. The airport’s five airside cargo terminals and over 2 million square feet of apron space further enhance its capacity.
BCT Aviation Maintenance’s recent contracts with Chinese and Ethiopian cargo carriers for Boeing 777F line maintenance highlight the company’s ability to capitalize on the airport’s expanding freight operations. The company’s long-standing presence at East Midlands Airport and its ability to provide rapid, reliable maintenance services are key factors in securing these high-profile contracts.
“East Midlands Airport’s status as a 24/7 cargo hub provides unrivaled operational flexibility for maintenance providers like BCT, supporting both current and future growth.”
UK and European MRO Market Dynamics
The UK MRO market is valued at over USD 3.6 billion, with projections indicating steady growth through the end of the decade. Engine overhaul services represent the largest segment, while modification services are growing rapidly as airlines upgrade and adapt their fleets. The UK accounts for more than 4% of the global MRO market, reflecting its established aviation industry and skilled workforce.
Europe’s broader MRO market is expected to reach nearly USD 25 billion by 2030, with independent maintenance shops and OEM-affiliated providers competing for market share. Germany leads the region, driven by the scale of Lufthansa Technik, while the UK maintains a strong position through both legacy and independent providers. Labor shortages and wage inflation, however, pose significant challenges, with a projected 19% shortage of licensed mechanics by 2028.
Technological advancements such as predictive maintenance, artificial intelligence, and sustainability initiatives are transforming the industry. Providers are investing in new capabilities to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and meet regulatory requirements for environmental performance. These trends require ongoing investment in workforce development and technology adoption to remain competitive.
Industry Workforce Challenges and Technological Developments
The aviation maintenance industry faces a global shortage of skilled engineers and technicians. In North America, shortfalls of up to 18,000 workers are projected, with similar trends emerging in Europe and the UK. The UK Civil Aviation Authority reports over 32,000 EASA/CAA licensed MRO engineers, but retirement rates and limited training pipelines suggest future shortages.
Technological innovations such as predictive maintenance and digital analytics are helping organizations manage workforce constraints by improving operational efficiency and early issue detection. Sustainability is also a growing focus, with MRO providers integrating eco-friendly practices, material recycling, and waste reduction as part of industry-wide commitments to net-zero emissions by 2050.
Investment in workforce development and technology adoption is essential for maintaining service quality and meeting evolving regulatory and market demands. BCT Aviation Maintenance’s experienced workforce and commitment to ongoing training position it favorably to address these challenges.
Conclusion
BCT Aviation Maintenance’s enhanced EASA base maintenance approval for Boeing 737 C Check services represents a significant strategic milestone for both the company and the UK MRO sector. This expansion enables BCT to deliver comprehensive, high-value maintenance solutions to a wider range of clients, leveraging its experienced workforce and strategic location at East Midlands Airport.
The company’s achievement reflects broader trends in the aviation maintenance industry, including regulatory evolution, technological innovation, and workforce challenges. As the MRO market continues to grow and evolve, organizations that invest in capability development, regulatory compliance, and service excellence, like BCT Aviation Maintenance, will be well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive environment.
FAQ
What does BCT Aviation Maintenance’s enhanced EASA approval include?
The approval covers base maintenance up to and including C Check for Boeing 737 series aircraft, including 6/12/18/24/36/48-month checks, up to 20,000 flight hour tasks, up to 10,000 flight cycle tasks, and structural inspections.
Why is East Midlands Airport significant for BCT Aviation Maintenance?
East Midlands Airport is the UK’s second-largest cargo hub, offering 24/7 operations, major cargo carrier presence, and strategic proximity to most of England and Wales, making it an ideal location for maintenance and logistics operations.
What are the main challenges facing the UK and European MRO industry?
The sector faces skilled workforce shortages, rising operational costs, technological change, and increasing regulatory requirements, all of which require ongoing investment and adaptation by MRO providers.
How does C Check maintenance differ from other maintenance checks?
C Check is a comprehensive, in-depth inspection performed every 18,24 months, requiring aircraft to be taken out of service for extensive examination and servicing, whereas A and B checks are lighter and more frequent.
What are the future implications for BCT Aviation Maintenance?
The company’s expanded capabilities position it for growth in a competitive market, especially as demand for comprehensive maintenance services and specialized cargo operations increases.
Sources:
BCT Aviation Maintenance
Photo Credit: BCT Aviation
MRO & Manufacturing
Avio Network Acquires JAT Tehnika to Expand MRO Services in Serbia
Avio Network finalized the acquisition of JAT Tehnika, enhancing its MRO capabilities with plans for modernization and expanded services in Serbia.
This article is based on an official press release from Avio Network.
On May 11, 2026, Belgrade-based Avio Network officially announced the completion of its acquisitions of JAT Tehnika, a prominent maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider located at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport in Surčin, Serbia. According to the official press release, this transaction is a cornerstone of Avio Network’s growth strategy, designed to significantly expand its technical capabilities, infrastructure, and market reach across Europe.
We note from supplementary industry research that the deal involves Avio Network acquiring a 99.38% stake in the historic MRO facility. The acquisition positions the company to capitalize on the post-pandemic recovery of the global airline industry, fleet expansions, and the corresponding surge in demand for cost-effective maintenance services.
The Details of the Acquisition
Transition of Ownership
The formal Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) was initially signed in December 2025, according to verified public data. Following regulatory clearance from Serbia’s competition authority, the deal was finalized in May 2026. The financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed.
In the company press release, Avio Network CEO Aleš Luci highlighted the strategic value of the purchase, emphasizing the immediate access to certified maintenance facilities and a highly skilled workforce.
“This acquisition represents a strategic investment in scalable infrastructure and proven operational excellence. JAT Tehnika brings a strong foundation… that are fully aligned with our vision of building a leading regional MRO platform.”
The press release confirms that JAT Tehnika will continue to serve its current clients without interruption during the transition period, with Avio Network planning to introduce additional commercial opportunities under its ownership.
Contrasting Profiles: From Niche Services to MRO Giant
Avio Network’s Rapid Ascent
Founded in 2017 and headquartered at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, Avio Network began as a niche aviation services provider focusing on aircraft washing and cleaning. Public industry data shows the company expanded its portfolio in 2022 by obtaining licenses for aircraft towing and pushback, eventually entering the line maintenance sector. Prior to this acquisition, Avio Network operated with approximately 90 employees, serving clients such as Air Serbia, easyJet, Lumiwings, Leav, and DAT.
JAT Tehnika’s Historic Legacy
In stark contrast to its new parent company’s relatively recent founding, JAT Tehnika boasts roots dating back to 1927 with the founding of the airline Aeroput. Established in its current corporate form in 2006, the facility spans approximately 480,000 square meters and features three hangars capable of accommodating both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft.
JAT Tehnika holds critical international certifications, including EASA PART-145, FAA FAR 145, and EASA PART-21J (European Design Certificate). Notably, in August 2023, the facility completed the first passenger-to-cargo conversion of a Boeing 767-300 aircraft in Europe, a milestone achieved in collaboration with Israeli Aerospace Industries.
Strategic Rationale and Market Context
Planned Investments
Avio Network plans to implement targeted investments aimed at modernizing JAT Tehnika’s facilities, improving digital capacities, and optimizing operational efficiency. The official release notes these upgrades will strengthen the company’s competitive position in both narrow-body and wide-body maintenance segments.
AirPro News analysis
At AirPro News, we view this acquisition as a fascinating shift in the Southeast European aviation landscape. The contrast in scale is particularly striking: a relatively young company with roughly 90 employees has successfully taken over a massive, historic MRO facility with nearly a century of legacy. This move signals a highly ambitious transition for Avio Network from line maintenance and ground handling into heavy, comprehensive MRO services.
Furthermore, this transaction must be viewed within the broader context of regional market restructuring. JAT Tehnika was previously owned by Avia Prime, a Czech-based aviation group controlled by Hartenberg Holding, which acquired the Serbian MRO during its 2019 privatization. Industry research indicates that Avia Prime is executing a strategic divestment from the Balkans; in late 2025, the group agreed to sell its Slovenian maintenance subsidiary, Adria Tehnika, to the European low-cost carrier easyJet.
This broader exit by Hartenberg Holding from the aviation sector underscores a shifting competitive landscape where major airlines are increasingly bringing maintenance in-house to control operating costs. By keeping JAT Tehnika under regional ownership, Avio Network is securing a strategically vital industrial asset for the Western Balkans, ensuring Belgrade remains a competitive hub for aircraft maintenance in Southeast Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of JAT Tehnika did Avio Network acquire?
According to public industry data, Avio Network acquired a 99.38% stake in JAT Tehnika.
Will current JAT Tehnika clients be affected by the change in ownership?
No. The official press release states that JAT Tehnika will continue to provide services to its current clients without interruption.
What are Avio Network’s future plans for the facility?
Avio Network has committed to targeted investments in the modernization of facilities, the improvement of digital capacities, and the optimization of operational efficiency.
Sources:
Photo Credit: JAT Tehnika
MRO & Manufacturing
NASA Ground Crews Maintain Diverse Fleet at Armstrong Flight Center
NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center ground crews maintain a diverse fleet including F-15s, Pilatus PC-12, and the X-59 Quesst with rigorous inspections and maintenance.
Keeping NASA Flying: The Unsung Heroes of Aircraft Readiness
Behind every high-speed research flight and high-altitude science campaign at NASA is a dedicated team of ground maintenance professionals. Based primarily at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, these specialized crews ensure that a highly diverse fleet of civilian, military, and experimental aircraft operate safely and reliably.
According to an official press release from NASA, maintaining this varied fleet requires immense agility. Because these aircraft fly at different speeds, carry highly specialized hardware, and operate under varying mission parameters, the ground crews must constantly adapt to new challenges to keep the agency’s aeronautics and science advancements on track.
The Anatomy of a NASA Ground Crew
Maintaining NASA’s fleet requires a highly coordinated team with specialized roles. The official agency report outlines a structured hierarchy designed to maximize safety and efficiency on the flightline.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
At the helm of each aircraft’s maintenance is the Crew Chief, who bears ultimate responsibility for the structural and operational integrity of the plane. They are supported by Avionics Technicians, who focus on navigation, communication, and flight control systems, as well as specialized Mechanics who handle physical repairs and part replacements. Quality Assurance Personnel oversee all work to ensure it meets strict safety standards.
“There is a crew chief assigned to every aircraft. The crew chief is responsible for the integrity of that aircraft, and at the end of the day, his signature and the pilot’s together are what constitutes that the aircraft is safe for flight,” stated Jose “Manny” Rodriguez, NASA Armstrong Gulfstream G-IV Crew Chief, in the NASA release.
Adapting to a Diverse and Expanding Fleet
As of 2026, NASA has expanded its fleet at the Armstrong Flight Research Center, requiring ground crews to adapt to new airframes and experimental technologies. Recent additions include two F-15 fighter jets and a Pilatus PC-12 turboprop.
The maintenance teams are also tasked with managing legacy high-altitude platforms like the ER-2 Earth resources aircraft, alongside cutting-edge experimental planes.
“It’s difficult at times to work with different airplanes from both the civilian and military sides, but it’s very rewarding to see that we have the capability and the expertise to keep these aircraft flying,” Rodriguez noted.
The X-59 Quesst and Experimental Maintenance
Ground crews are currently managing scheduled maintenance and rigorous inspections for NASA’s newest X-plane, the X-59 Quesst, which is designed for quiet supersonic flight. Teams frequently remove panels for thorough visual inspections of internal systems to confirm airworthiness.
“Inspections are a very important part of the airworthiness process for a brand new airplane. We have to inspect this aircraft more frequently than other aircraft,” explained David Mcallister, Operations Lead for the X-59.
Rigorous Maintenance Protocols
To ensure the safety of these multi-million dollar assets, ground crews perform continuous, rigorous maintenance. Routine tasks include checking ejection seats, fueling the aircraft, and constantly replacing parts that degrade with each flight, such as brakes, wheels, wiring, and hardware.
Once maintenance is complete, the aircraft is towed to the flightline. Before takeoff, the assigned NASA pilot and the crew chief conduct a final safety walk-around. Furthermore, maintenance crews actively track each flight to ensure mission completion. If an aircraft is forced to return to base early, the ground crew is immediately on standby to troubleshoot and repair the issue.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that NASA’s approach to fleet maintenance highlights a unique operational challenge rarely seen in commercial aviation. While commercial airlines typically operate standardized fleets to streamline maintenance and reduce costs, NASA’s Armstrong facility must maintain a mixed inventory of legacy military jets, civilian turboprops, and one-of-a-kind experimental X-planes.
This requirement for hyper-adaptability places an extraordinary burden on the ground crews. The successful integration of new assets like the F-15s and the Pilatus PC-12 in 2026, alongside the highly sensitive X-59 Quesst, underscores the elite training and flexibility of these aviation technicians. Their ability to pivot from standard civilian maintenance to experimental supersonic protocols on a daily basis is a critical, yet often overlooked, pillar of American aerospace innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are NASA’s primary aircraft maintenance operations located?
NASA’s primary aircraft maintenance operations are based at the Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California.
What new aircraft did NASA add to its Armstrong fleet in 2026?
According to the NASA release, the agency recently added two F-15 fighter jets and a Pilatus PC-12 to its fleet.
Who has the final say on whether a NASA aircraft is safe to fly?
The assigned NASA pilot and the Crew Chief must both sign off on the aircraft’s safety after conducting a final pre-flight walk-around.
Sources: NASA
Photo Credit: NASA
MRO & Manufacturing
CD Aviation Services Acquires STC for Twin Commander Engine Upgrade
CD Aviation Services acquires STC SA1024SO to authorize Honeywell TPE331-5-252K engine upgrades on Twin Commander 690 series, improving maintenance support.
CD Aviation Services (CDAS), a specialized turbine engine maintenance provider, has officially announced the acquisition of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA1024SO. According to the company’s press release, this certification authorizes the installation of Honeywell TPE331-5-252K engines on the Twin Commander 690, 690A, and 690B Commercial-Aircraft series. The STC, previously associated with Aero Air, LLC, provides a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved pathway for operators to upgrade their legacy powerplants.
For the legacy aviation community, this acquisition represents a critical development in maintaining the airworthiness of aging fleets. The core of the upgrade involves transitioning the aircraft’s fuel control system from the older Bendix configuration to the more widely supported Woodward system. By bringing this STC in-house, CDAS aims to directly support Twin Commander operators facing growing industry concerns over parts availability and maintenance bottlenecks.
As out-of-production aircraft continue to age, the availability of approved modifications is vital for their continued operation. The official announcement highlights that this STC not only modernizes the engine configuration but also aligns the aircraft with current industry maintenance standards, ensuring these vintage twin-turboprops remain viable for years to come.
Technical Details of the Engine Upgrade
Transitioning from Bendix to Woodward Fuel Systems
The primary technical shift facilitated by STC SA1024SO is the conversion from the Honeywell TPE331-5-251K engine to the TPE331-5-252K engine. According to the provided research data, the most significant change in this upgrade is the replacement of the legacy Bendix Fuel Control Unit (FCU) with a Woodward FCU. The conversion is performed in strict accordance with Honeywell Service Bulletin SB 72-0216, which outlines the necessary steps for transitioning between the two fuel control systems.
Understanding the differences between these two systems is essential to grasping the value of the STC. The legacy Bendix system, found on early TPE331-5 engines, was largely air-based. Historical maintenance data indicates that these units were prone to operational issues, such as moisture freezing within the system. Today, Bendix-equipped engines represent a minority in the active fleet, and operators face severe challenges due to decreasing parts availability and limited overhaul support.
Conversely, the Woodward FCU is a predominantly hydraulic system that has become the industry standard for these engines. While the Woodward system has faced its own historical airworthiness directives, such as AD 2006-15-08, which required a switch from steel to plastic fuel splines to prevent runaway engines, it is vastly more serviceable within the modern aviation maintenance network. Furthermore, upgrading to the Woodward system is a prerequisite for further engine enhancements, such as the -10 upgrade.
Impact on the Twin Commander Fleet
Extending the Lifespan of Legacy Aircraft
The Twin Commander 690 series consists of twin-turboprop executive business aircraft built primarily between 1972 and 1979. Known for their high-wing design, impressive climb rates, and cruise speeds of up to 250+ knots, these aircraft remain popular in the used market. Because the airframes have been out of production for decades, maintaining and upgrading their powerplants is critical for their continued airworthiness.
The acquisition of this STC by CDAS offers tangible benefits to operators of these vintage aircraft. By providing a legal and practical method to replace obsolete Bendix systems, the STC effectively extends the operational lifecycle of the Twin Commander 690 series. Operators will no longer have to hunt for scarce Bendix components, as the -252K configuration offers much broader parts availability across the global supply chain.
Additionally, the Woodward system is widely understood across the global maintenance network. This familiarity leads to expanded overhaul capabilities and potentially lower maintenance downtimes for operators, ensuring that these legacy aircraft can be serviced efficiently by authorized repair stations worldwide.
“This STC provides operators with a clear and practical path forward when evaluating engine upgrades or addressing long-term support concerns. Our focus is on delivering solutions that improve aircraft reliability, maintainability, and overall lifecycle support.”
About CD Aviation Services
Headquartered in Joplin, Missouri, CD Aviation Services has specialized in small turbine engine maintenance for over 20 years. According to company statements, they operate as a Honeywell Authorized Part 145 repair station, focusing specifically on Honeywell TPE331 and TFE731 engines, as well as GTCP36 series Auxiliary Power Units (APUs).
The strategic acquisition of STC SA1024SO expands the company’s in-house capabilities, allowing them to directly support Twin Commander operators rather than relying on third-party certificate holders. This move solidifies their position as a dedicated support hub for legacy Honeywell turbine engines.
AirPro News analysis
We view the acquisition of STC SA1024SO by CD Aviation Services as indicative of a broader trend within the aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector. As original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) naturally shift their focus toward newer platforms, specialized MROs are stepping in to acquire the intellectual property and certifications necessary to keep legacy fleets airborne. By taking ownership of this STC, CDAS is not merely offering a repair service; they are actively solving a critical Supply-Chain bottleneck regarding the obsolete Bendix FCU. This proactive approach is essential for the survival of out-of-production airframes like the Twin Commander 690, ensuring that operators have a predictable, FAA-approved path for modernization and continued Compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What aircraft does STC SA1024SO apply to?
According to the FAA-approved certificate details, the STC applies specifically to the Twin Commander 690, 690A, and 690B series aircraft.
What is the main difference between the Bendix and Woodward FCU?
The legacy Bendix Fuel Control Unit is an older, air-based system that suffers from parts scarcity and historical reliability issues (such as moisture freezing). The Woodward FCU is a newer, hydraulic-based system that serves as the current industry standard, offering better parts availability and broader maintenance support.
Why is this STC important for Twin Commander operators?
It provides a legal, FAA-approved method to upgrade from the TPE331-5-251K engine to the -252K configuration, allowing operators to abandon the obsolete Bendix fuel system in favor of the supportable Woodward system, thereby extending the aircraft’s operational lifespan.
Sources
Photo Credit: CD Aviation Services
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