MRO & Manufacturing
Diehl Aviation Expands Aerospace Manufacturing with Querétaro Facility
Diehl Aviation inaugurates a new plant in Querétaro, Mexico, enhancing aerospace production for North America and urban air mobility markets.
Diehl Aviation’s inauguration of its new manufacturing facility in Querétaro, Mexico, marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s global strategy and underscores Mexico’s ascent as a world-class aerospace manufacturing hub. The facility, developed with a double-digit million Euro investment and spanning over 8,200 square meters, with plans for further expansion, positions Diehl Aviation closer to major North American clients such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, and Embraer. This move is set against the backdrop of Mexico’s rapidly expanding aerospace sector, which ranks 12th globally and has been experiencing robust growth and export activity. The Querétaro site will initially produce overhead stowage compartments for the Airbus A220, with future plans to manufacture interior components for emerging urban air mobility platforms, signaling Diehl Aviation’s commitment to both established and next-generation aerospace markets.
This development is not just a reflection of Diehl Aviation’s growth ambitions but also of broader industry trends, including nearshoring, supply chain optimization, and the strategic importance of Mexico’s aerospace clusters. Querétaro, in particular, has emerged as a central node in the North American aerospace landscape, attracting significant foreign investment and fostering collaboration among industry, academia, and government. As Diehl Aviation integrates into this vibrant ecosystem, the implications for regional economic development, supply chain resilience, and technological advancement are substantial.
In this article, we explore the strategic rationale behind Diehl Aviation’s investment, the significance of Querétaro as an aerospace hub, the current state of Mexico’s aerospace industry, and the broader implications for global aerospace manufacturing and supply chains.
Diehl Aviation’s new manufacturing facility in Querétaro represents the company’s most significant step into the Americas to date. Located in the PyMe Industrial Park near Santiago de Querétaro, the facility initially offers over 8,200 square meters of production and office space, with a second expansion phase planned to add between 4,000 and 6,000 square meters. This substantial investment demonstrates Diehl Aviation’s long-term commitment to the region and confidence in Mexico’s aerospace capabilities.
The timeline for the Querétaro project began in 2024, with the company set to move into the facility in March 2025. Production started soon after the official inauguration, focusing on manufacturing overhead stowage compartments for the Airbus A220. These components are destined for Airbus assembly facilities in Mirabel, Quebec, and Mobile, Alabama, highlighting the facility’s role in serving North American markets. The workforce is expected to grow from about 20 employees at launch to around 500 over the medium term, reflecting a careful, phased approach to growth and training.
Beyond the Airbus A220 project, Diehl Aviation plans to expand the site’s capabilities to include interior components for Eve’s eVTOL aircraft, positioning the company to capitalize on the emerging urban air mobility market. The location in Querétaro offers operational advantages such as time zone alignment with final assembly lines in Brazil, Canada, and the U.S., reduced transport times to customers, and the ability to develop a robust local supply chain. These factors contribute to cost efficiency, supply chain resilience, and enhanced customer collaboration.
“The new site in Querétaro is a significant milestone for us. It allows us to be closer to our North American customers, optimize our supply chain, and tap into the region’s skilled workforce.” — Dr. Jörg Schuler, CEO, Diehl Aviation
The Querétaro facility is not just a manufacturing site, it is designed as a strategic customer collaboration hub. This approach enables Diehl Aviation to respond more quickly to customer needs, integrate feedback into product development, and strengthen relationships with major aerospace manufacturers in the Americas.
Querétaro has rapidly emerged as one of Mexico’s foremost aerospace clusters, attracting leading international companies and fostering a collaborative ecosystem that spans industry, academia, and government. Over 80 aerospace firms currently operate in the region, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs and contributing to the state’s reputation as a magnet for foreign direct investment (FDI). The region’s infrastructure is a key enabler of its aerospace success. The Querétaro Intercontinental Airport, specialized industrial parks, and the presence of the Aeronautical University of Querétaro (UNAQ) provide logistical, operational, and workforce development support. The inauguration of a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Laboratory at UNAQ further underscores the region’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in aviation.
FDI in Querétaro’s aerospace sector reached $292.8 million between 2006 and early 2024, ranking it among the top recipients nationally. Major manufacturers such as Bombardier, Safran, Airbus, and General Electric have established significant operations in the region. Bombardier’s facility, for example, employs approximately 1,200 people and manufactures complex components for business jets, demonstrating the depth of expertise and capability present in Querétaro.
Employment in Querétaro’s aerospace sector is on an upward trajectory, with projections indicating that the industry will exceed 12,000 jobs by 2024, an 18% increase over pre-pandemic levels. The Aerocluster Querétaro, the region’s aerospace industry association, has also grown, reflecting diversification into areas such as drone operations and advanced materials manufacturing.
“Querétaro’s aerospace cluster is a testament to Mexico’s ability to attract and retain world-class manufacturing operations, thanks to its skilled workforce, infrastructure, and collaborative environment.”
Mexico is now the 12th largest aerospace producer globally and the leading exporter of aerospace components in Latin America. The aerospace sector accounts for 29% of the country’s total exports and contributes 3.5% to GDP, reflecting its strategic importance to the national economy. The industry has maintained an impressive annual growth rate of over 14% for the past 15 years.
The sector’s value is projected to rise from US$11.2 billion in 2024 to US$22.7 billion by 2029, according to some estimates. This growth is fueled by Mexico’s strategic location, trade agreements such as the USMCA, and a skilled, competitively priced labor force. The industry directly employs about 60,000 workers and supports up to 1.4 million jobs across related sectors.
Mexico’s aerospace capabilities have evolved from basic assembly to the production of complex, high-value components such as wire harnesses, engines, fuselages, and interior systems. The adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies, including artificial intelligence, automation, and Industry 4.0 practices, has enhanced productivity, quality, and supply chain integration. These technological advancements, coupled with robust training programs and partnerships with educational institutions, have made Mexico a preferred destination for aerospace investment.
Foreign direct investment remains strong, with more than $3.7 billion invested since 2006 and over $750 million expected in 2024 alone. The country’s aerospace ecosystem is distributed across 19 states, with 386 companies operating 370 specialized plants as of mid-2024.
“Mexico’s aerospace industry has become a cornerstone of our manufacturing economy, driving exports, employment, and technological innovation.”
Diehl Aviation’s Querétaro facility is central to the company’s strategy of enhancing its market position and strengthening relationships with key customers. Proximity to major OEMs such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, and Embraer allows for faster response times, improved collaboration, and reduced lead times, all of which are critical in the highly competitive aerospace sector. The partnership with Airbus is particularly noteworthy. Diehl Aviation has been selected to develop and produce the Airspace XL Bins for the Airbus A220, offering 20% more stowage capacity than previous models. This marks Diehl Aviation’s first representation on the A220 platform and demonstrates its ability to deliver innovative, customer-focused solutions.
In addition to established markets, Diehl Aviation is positioning itself in the emerging eVTOL segment through its collaboration with Eve Air Mobility. The company will design and produce the entire interior for Eve’s eVTOL aircraft, including advanced lighting systems and eco-efficient materials. This partnership exemplifies Diehl Aviation’s commitment to innovation and its ability to adapt to evolving market demands.
The Querétaro facility is expected to serve as a collaborative space for customer engagement, similar to Diehl Aviation’s Customer Collaboration Space in Everett, Washington. Such facilities enable face-to-face meetings, technical demonstrations, and the integration of customer feedback into product development.
“Our proximity to key customers allows us to be more agile and responsive, which is essential in today’s dynamic aerospace market.”
The establishment of the Querétaro facility is a strategic response to supply chain challenges that have affected the aerospace industry since the COVID-19 pandemic. Diehl Aviation has implemented measures such as inventory buffers, dual sourcing, and supplier support to mitigate disruptions and ensure reliable delivery to OEMs.
The facility’s location reduces transit times and enhances supply chain resilience, while the phased approach to workforce development ensures that employees are properly trained to meet stringent safety and quality standards. The integration of advanced manufacturing technologies and best practices from Diehl Aviation’s global operations further supports operational excellence.
Sustainability is a core focus, with innovations such as ECO Thermoplastic Ducting and ECO Powder Coating being integrated into manufacturing processes. These technologies reduce weight, improve efficiency, and support environmental objectives without compromising performance.
“Sustainable manufacturing is not just an option; it’s a necessity for the future of aviation.”
Diehl Aviation’s entry into the eVTOL market, through its partnership with Eve Air Mobility, highlights the company’s forward-looking approach to technological innovation. The development of advanced interior systems for electric aircraft requires new design paradigms, materials, and safety systems tailored to urban air mobility.
Artificial intelligence and digitalization are increasingly integral to aerospace manufacturing. The Querétaro facility will leverage AI-driven automation, predictive maintenance, and Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance efficiency, quality control, and traceability. The company’s experience in avionics and cabin management systems, coupled with its involvement in major European and international aerospace programs, positions it to contribute to the development of autonomous flight systems and next-generation aviation technologies.
“By investing in advanced manufacturing and digitalization, we are building the foundation for the next era of aerospace innovation.”
Diehl Aviation’s Querétaro facility is expected to have a significant economic impact, both locally and nationally. The planned workforce expansion to 500 employees will contribute to regional employment growth, while the development of local supply chains will create additional opportunities for suppliers and service providers.
The aerospace sector’s multiplier effect extends to indirect and induced employment, supporting a wide range of industries beyond manufacturing. The facility’s contribution to Mexico’s export capacity, tax revenues, and regional competitiveness further underscores its importance to economic development.
High-profile investments like Diehl Aviation’s also serve as a catalyst for further FDI, signaling the region’s attractiveness to other international aerospace companies and strengthening Querétaro’s position as a global aerospace hub.
Diehl Aviation’s expansion into Mexico reflects broader global trends in aerospace manufacturing, including nearshoring, supply chain diversification, and increased demand for aerospace products and services. The USMCA framework provides additional advantages for companies serving North American markets, such as favorable tariffs and regulatory alignment.
The company’s investment supports its competitive positioning by enhancing proximity to customers, accessing skilled labor, and leveraging cost efficiencies. Sustainability, regulatory compliance, and technological innovation are increasingly important differentiators in the global aerospace industry.
As the industry evolves, Diehl Aviation’s strategic investments in Mexico and elsewhere will be critical to maintaining its leadership in an environment characterized by rapid change and high standards.
“Strategic investments in supply chain resilience and proximity are shaping the future of global aerospace manufacturing.”
Diehl Aviation’s Querétaro facility represents a significant step in the company’s global expansion and reflects the broader transformation of aerospace manufacturing in North America. The investment strengthens Diehl Aviation’s relationships with key customers, enhances supply chain resilience, and positions the company to capitalize on both established and emerging market opportunities. As Mexico’s aerospace industry continues its impressive growth, strategic investments like Diehl Aviation’s will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the sector. The Querétaro facility serves as a model for how international aerospace companies can leverage Mexico’s capabilities, infrastructure, and workforce to achieve operational excellence and drive innovation in a rapidly changing industry.
What products will Diehl Aviation manufacture at the Querétaro facility? Why did Diehl Aviation choose Querétaro for its new site? How will the new facility impact employment in the region? What is the significance of Mexico’s aerospace industry globally? How does Diehl Aviation address sustainability in its operations? Sources: Diehl Aviation
Diehl Aviation’s Strategic Expansion into Mexico: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Querétaro Facility and Its Impact on North American Aerospace Manufacturing
Diehl Aviation’s Strategic Investment in Querétaro
Querétaro as Mexico’s Aerospace Manufacturing Hub
Mexico’s Aerospace Industry Landscape and Growth Trajectory
Strategic Market Positioning and Customer Relationships
Supply Chain Optimization and Manufacturing Excellence
Technological Innovation and Future Market Trends
Economic Impact and Regional Development
Global Industry Context and Competitive Dynamics
Conclusion
FAQ
The facility will initially produce overhead stowage compartments for the Airbus A220 and plans to expand into manufacturing interior components for Eve’s eVTOL aircraft in the future.
Querétaro offers operational advantages such as proximity to major customers, skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and a collaborative aerospace cluster environment.
Diehl Aviation expects to grow its workforce from around 20 employees at launch to approximately 500 over the medium term, contributing to local employment growth and regional economic development.
Mexico is the 12th largest aerospace producer in the world and the leading aerospace exporter in Latin America, with strong growth, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and significant contributions to employment and exports.
The company integrates sustainable manufacturing technologies such as ECO Thermoplastic Ducting and ECO Powder Coating, aiming to reduce environmental impact while maintaining high performance.
Photo Credit: Diehl Aviation
MRO & Manufacturing
Bombardier Acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions to Expand US Service Network
Bombardier acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions, adding a Delaware facility and mobile repair units to enhance its U.S. aftermarket services.
On February 9, 2026, Bombardier announced the acquisition of Velocity Maintenance Solutions, a specialized provider of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services based in Wilmington, Delaware. The transaction, executed through Bombardier’s U.S. subsidiary Learjet Inc., represents a strategic expansion of the manufacturer’s aftermarket footprint in the high-traffic Northeast corridor.
The acquisition provides Bombardier with immediate access to a 35,000-square-foot facility at New Castle Airport (ILG) and a fleet of mobile repair units designed for rapid response. While financial terms of the deal remain confidential, the move aligns with the company’s stated objective to grow its services revenue and secure a stronger domestic presence in the United States.
According to the company’s official statement, the acquisition is designed to bolster support for Bombardier’s growing fleet of business jets, including the ultra-long-range Global 8000. By integrating Velocity Maintenance Solutions, Bombardier aims to capture more of the lifecycle maintenance market, a sector that offers stable margins compared to the cyclical nature of aircraft sales.
The deal includes significant physical and operational assets that will be integrated into Bombardier’s service network:
Paul Sislian, Executive Vice President of Bombardier Aftermarket Services, highlighted the cultural fit between the two organizations in the press release.
“Velocity Maintenance Solutions’ capabilities and customer-focused culture make it an excellent fit for Bombardier… This acquisition is part of our commitment to continually elevate our service standards.”
Velocity Maintenance Solutions has established itself as an agile player in the MRO space since its emergence around 2021. As an FAA Part 145 Repair Station, the company is authorized to perform scheduled maintenance, structural repairs, and avionics upgrades.
Prior to the acquisition, Velocity serviced a diverse range of aircraft, including models from Embraer, Dassault Falcon, Gulfstream, and Textron, in addition to Bombardier jets. The facility is known for its 24/7 emergency support capabilities, a critical service for business jet operators requiring immediate dispatch reliability.
This acquisition arrives during a complex period for the aerospace industry, characterized by both consolidation and geopolitical friction. By executing the purchase through Learjet Inc., a heritage U.S. brand based in Wichita, Kansas, Bombardier reinforces its status as a significant U.S. employer. This distinction is increasingly vital as the company navigates trade tensions, including recent tariff threats from the U.S. administration regarding Canadian aerospace products.
Expanding physical infrastructure within the United States serves a dual purpose: it insulates the company’s service supply chain from potential cross-border friction and strengthens its eligibility for U.S. defense contracts. Furthermore, in an industry facing a chronic shortage of skilled labor, acquiring a “turnkey” operation with a certified workforce allows Bombardier to bypass the long lead times associated with recruiting and training new technicians. The location in Wilmington also places Bombardier in direct competition with other major service providers at New Castle Airport, including a Dassault Falcon service center, signaling an aggressive push to dominate the Northeast service market.
The acquisition was made by Learjet Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of Bombardier.
The existing team of technicians and support staff at Velocity Maintenance Solutions will be retained and integrated into Bombardier’s workforce.
While the press release emphasizes support for Bombardier’s fleet, Velocity has historically serviced various manufacturers. OEMs often honor existing third-party contracts during transition periods, though the long-term focus typically shifts to the parent company’s products.
Bombardier Acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions to Densify U.S. Service Network
Expanding the Aftermarket Ecosystem
Target Profile: Velocity Maintenance Solutions
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic and Political Context
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the acquiring entity?
What happens to the current workforce?
Will Velocity continue to service non-Bombardier aircraft?
Sources
Photo Credit: Velocity Maintenance Solutions
MRO & Manufacturing
Satair and Joramco Extend 25-Year Partnership at MRO Middle East 2026
Satair and Joramco renew their 25-year supply agreement at MRO Middle East 2026, supporting Joramco’s maintenance operations and new contracts.
This article is based on an official press release from Satair and additional industry reporting regarding MRO Middle East 2026.
At the MRO Middle East 2026 exhibition in Dubai, Satair, an Airbus Services company, and Joramco (Jordan Aircraft Maintenance Limited) officially announced the renewal of their long-standing Consumables and Expendables Supply Agreement. The deal marks the continuation of a strategic partnership that has spanned more than a quarter of a century, reinforcing the critical role of integrated supply chains in the growing Middle Eastern aviation maintenance sector.
According to the announcement, the renewed agreement is designed to secure a consistent flow of essential spare parts for Joramco’s base maintenance operations in Amman, Jordan. By locking in this supply chain solution, Joramco aims to minimize “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG) risks and reduce the complexity of material management for its expanding customer base.
The partnership between Satair and Joramco is one of the most enduring in the region. For over 25 years, Satair has served as a primary provider of consumables and expendables, high-volume, low-cost parts essential for routine maintenance, to the Jordan-based MRO provider.
In the official release, the companies highlighted the operational benefits of the extension. The agreement allows Joramco to leverage Satair’s global distribution network, ensuring that parts are available precisely when needed. This “just-in-time” capability is vital for MROs (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul providers) striving to offer competitive turnaround times to airlines.
A primary focus of the renewal is the mitigation of supply chain disruptions. By outsourcing the management of consumables to Satair, Joramco can focus its internal resources on heavy maintenance and engineering tasks rather than logistics. The agreement reportedly covers a comprehensive range of Airbus and Boeing fleet requirements, aligning with Joramco’s diverse capabilities.
“This continued partnership with Satair ensures we have the right parts at the right time, allowing us to deliver superior turnaround times to our global customers.”
, Statement attributed to Joramco leadership regarding the renewal
The renewal comes amidst a flurry of activity at MRO Middle East 2026, where both companies have announced significant independent expansions. The event, held on February 4–5, 2026, has served as a platform for major industry shifts in the region. According to industry reporting from the event, Joramco has also secured a major five-year heavy maintenance agreement with the German leisure carrier Condor. This deal will see Joramco performing base maintenance on Condor’s entire Airbus fleet, including the A320ceo, A320neo, and A330neo. Additionally, Joramco celebrated the first graduates of its Structured On-the-Job Training (SOJT) program, a move aimed at addressing the global shortage of skilled aviation technicians.
Simultaneously, Satair has expanded its footprint in the sustainability sector. Reports from the event indicate Satair signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GAMECO (Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Co.) to enter the Used Serviceable Material (USM) market, addressing the rising demand for cost-effective and sustainable parts solutions.
The renewal of the Satair-Joramco agreement highlights a critical trend in the post-2025 aviation landscape: the prioritization of supply chain resilience. In an era where global parts shortages have frequently grounded fleets, MRO providers are increasingly moving toward long-term, integrated agreements with major distributors rather than relying on spot-market purchasing.
Furthermore, the Middle East’s trajectory as a global MRO hub is evident in these announcements. Joramco’s ability to secure European contracts like the Condor deal, backed by a robust supply chain from Satair, suggests that regional players are successfully competing on a global scale by combining geographic advantages with high-grade logistical reliability.
Satair and Joramco Extend 25-Year Supply Chain Partnership at MRO Middle East 2026
Strengthening a Quarter-Century Alliance
Operational Efficiency and AOG Reduction
Broader Context: MRO Middle East 2026 Developments
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Satair
MRO & Manufacturing
Joramco Renews Maintenance Agreement with mas Cargo Airline for 2026
Joramco extends its maintenance contract with Mexican cargo airline mas for heavy checks on Airbus A330 freighters throughout 2026 at its Amman facility.
This article is based on an official press release from Joramco.
Joramco, the Amman-based aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility and engineering arm of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), has officially announced the renewal of its maintenance agreement with mas (formerly MasAir), a prominent Mexican cargo airline. The agreement was finalized and signed during the MRO Middle East 2026 exhibition in Dubai, marking a continuation of the strategic partnership between the two entities.
Under the terms of the renewed contract, Joramco will perform heavy base maintenance checks on the mas fleet of Airbus A330 freighters. The work is scheduled to take place throughout 2026 at Joramco’s facility at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan. This announcement underscores the MRO provider’s increasing traction in the global cargo sector and its ability to secure recurring business from international carriers outside its traditional regional stronghold.
According to the company’s announcement, the new deal focuses specifically on heavy base maintenance, often referred to as C-checks, for the carrier’s Airbus A330 fleet. These checks are critical for ensuring the continued airworthiness and operational reliability of the freighter aircraft, which are essential to mas’s global logistics network.
This renewal follows a successful initial collaboration established relatively recently. Joramco and mas first formalized their partnerships in October 2025 at the MRO Europe exhibition in London. That initial agreement covered maintenance checks that began in December 2025. The rapid renewal, signed just four months later, suggests a successful execution of the initial checks and a deepening of the business relationship.
In a statement regarding the renewal, Joramco’s leadership highlighted the significance of the repeat business.
“We are pleased to welcome more aircraft from mas at Joramco. This agreement reaffirms Joramco’s position as a trusted Global MRO provider of choice.”
, Adam Voss, CEO of Joramco
The agreement with mas aligns with Joramco’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint. By securing a renewal with a Latin American carrier, the Jordan-based MRO is demonstrating its competitiveness on a global scale, attracting airframes from the Americas to the Middle-East for heavy maintenance. The timing of this renewal is notable within the wider context of the MRO industry’s capacity constraints. In late 2025, Joramco inaugurated “Hangar 7,” a significant infrastructure expansion that reportedly increased its capacity to 22 parallel maintenance lines. This expansion appears to be paying dividends, allowing the facility to accommodate the “more aircraft” referenced by CEO Adam Voss.
Furthermore, the cargo market remains a demanding sector requiring high asset utilization. For a specialized Cargo-Aircraft airline like mas, which operates a modernizing fleet of Airbus A330 Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) aircraft, securing reliable MRO slots is a strategic priority. The quick transition from an initial contract in late 2025 to a full-year renewal for 2026 indicates that Joramco has successfully met the technical and turnaround time requirements demanded by the cargo carrier.
Joramco: A subsidiary of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), Joramco has operated for over 60 years. Based in Amman, Jordan, it provides airframe maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer aircraft.
mas: Headquartered in Mexico City, mas (formerly MasAir) is a specialized cargo airline operating scheduled and charter freight services across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The airline has been actively expanding its capacity with Airbus A330 freighters to support its international network.
Sources:
Joramco Extends Maintenance Partnership with mas Cargo Airline for 2026
Scope of the Renewed Agreement
Strategic Context and Capacity Expansion
AirPro News Analysis
About the Companies
Photo Credit: Joramco
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