Connect with us

MRO & Manufacturing

MRO Japan Expands Strategic Partnerships in Asia Pacific Aviation Market

MRO Japan enhances its Asia-Pacific presence with new partnerships and expanded aircraft maintenance and freighter conversion services.

Published

on

MRO Japan’s Strategic Expansion and Recent Partnership Developments in Asia-Pacific Aviation Maintenance Market

The aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector in the Asia-Pacific region is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by fleet expansions, evolving airline business models, and increasing demand for localized high-quality services. MRO Japan Co., Ltd., headquartered in Okinawa, has emerged as a pivotal player in this landscape, leveraging its strategic location, technical expertise, and robust partnerships to position itself as a regional hub for aircraft maintenance. As the company marks its 10th anniversary and secures new international collaborations, its trajectory offers valuable insights into the industry’s future in Japan and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

This article examines MRO Japan’s evolution, recent partnership agreements, operational capabilities, and the broader market context. By analyzing industry data, expert commentary, and official statements, we aim to provide a neutral, fact-based assessment of the company’s current position and future outlook within the dynamic aviation MRO ecosystem.

Company Background and Strategic Position

Established in June 2015, MRO Japan is the nation’s first dedicated aircraft maintenance company designed to serve both domestic and international Airlines. Its founding was spearheaded by ANA Holdings Inc. (holding a 45% stake), with additional investment from major Japanese industrial players such as JAMCO Corporation (25%) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (20%). The remainder is owned by Okinawan financial institutions and the Okinawa Development Finance Corporation, reflecting a concerted regional effort to bolster aviation infrastructure.

MRO Japan’s initial operations began at Osaka International Airport but shifted to a purpose-built facility at Naha Airports, Okinawa, in January 2019. This move was strategic: Okinawa’s central location in East Asia offers efficient access to key regional markets, supporting the company’s ambition to become a regional maintenance hub. The Naha facility is among Japan’s largest, spanning 17,800 square meters and capable of servicing wide-body aircraft (e.g., Boeing 767/777/787) and multiple narrow-body jets (e.g., Boeing 737, Airbus A320).

The company was established in response to Japan’s reliance on overseas MRO providers, particularly in China, which led to higher costs and logistical challenges for Japanese airlines. By localizing heavy maintenance capabilities, MRO Japan aims to enhance national aviation self-sufficiency while leveraging Japan’s reputation for high-quality engineering.

Operational Capabilities and Workforce

MRO Japan holds approvals from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) for a wide range of aircraft types, including Airbus A320 series, Boeing 767/777/787/747-8F, ATR 42/72, and De Havilland DHC-8-400. In October 2022, the company achieved European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for Airbus A320/A321 models, a milestone that enables it to serve international carriers and foreign-registered aircraft in Japan.

The company’s service portfolio covers line and heavy maintenance, technical assistance, Aircraft on Ground (AOG) recovery, and livery painting. Recent certifications have expanded its capabilities, with Boeing 747-8F and ATR series approvals added in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

As of April 2025, MRO Japan employs 468 people, with about 90% recruited locally from Okinawa. This approach supports regional economic development and ensures a workforce attuned to local regulatory and operational conditions.

Advertisement

“We are responsible for the safety and quality of our customers’ aircraft, and we will continue to respond with high technical capabilities and reliable quality.”, Yasufumi Yukawa, President and CEO, MRO Japan

Recent Strategic Partnerships and Market Expansion

Touchdown Aviation Collaboration

In September 2025, MRO Japan entered a General Terms Agreement (GTA) with Touchdown Aviation (TDA), a Dutch aviation specialist established in 1982. This agreement streamlines the exchange and procurement of high-quality, traceable aircraft components, strengthening MRO Japan’s supply chain and expanding TDA’s presence in Japan.

The Partnerships targets growth in end-of-lease (EOL) return maintenance and passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions, two segments experiencing increased demand as airlines seek to optimize fleet utilization and adapt to shifting cargo/passenger trends. TDA’s global operations and certifications (AS9120B, ASA-100) complement MRO Japan’s technical capabilities, supporting a robust and reliable supply network.

The agreement positions both firms to respond to heightened competition in the legacy engine maintenance sector, where established players are vying for contracts amid rising demand for efficient, cost-effective solutions.

“The part procurement cycle has been getting better recently. It seems manufacturers and suppliers have come back poco a poco [little by little], even if it is slower than in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic.”, Takuma Otsuka, Manager of Spare Part Planning Materials, MRO Japan

EFW Partnership for Freighter Conversions

In April 2024, MRO Japan signed a memorandum of understanding with Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW), an Airbus and ST Engineering joint venture, becoming Japan’s first provider of A320/A321 passenger-to-freighter conversions. This development is significant, as Japan’s air cargo market is forecast to grow steadily, with air freight representing the fastest-growing segment in domestic logistics.

The first conversion at MRO Japan’s facility is expected by the end of 2025, making it the third such site in Asia-Pacific after Singapore and China. This capability is timely: Yamato Holdings, a major Japanese logistics firm, began operating A321P2F aircraft in 2024, underlining domestic demand for converted freighters.

This partnership not only diversifies MRO Japan’s service offerings but also aligns with broader industry trends toward asset optimization and sustainability, as P2F conversions extend aircraft lifespans and support circular economy initiatives.

Market Context and Industry Dynamics

Asia-Pacific MRO Market Growth

The Asia-Pacific aircraft MRO market is one of the world’s fastest growing, driven by expanding fleets and rising air travel demand. Cognitive Market Research estimates the regional market at $18.2 billion in 2024, representing 23% of global revenue, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% through 2031. For Japan specifically, Grand View Research reports $2.65 billion in revenue for 2023, expecting growth to $3.94 billion by 2030 (CAGR 5.8%).

These projections are supported by broader trends in industrial automation, aging infrastructure, and stringent safety regulations, all of which drive demand for high-quality maintenance services. The Japanese government’s focus on operational efficiency and sustainability further underpins market expansion.

Advertisement

The rise of low-cost carriers (LCCs) in Asia has also influenced the MRO landscape. LCCs, with their high-frequency operations and lean maintenance teams, increasingly outsource maintenance, benefiting providers like MRO Japan that specialize in narrow-body aircraft.

Regional Competition and Hub Development

Japan faces stiff competition from regional hubs such as Singapore, China, and Malaysia, each investing heavily in MRO infrastructure. Singapore’s Seletar Aerospace Park and Malaysia’s Subang Aerotech Park are notable examples of this trend.

China’s competitive advantage lies in large aircraft volumes and lower operational costs, while Japan’s edge is its advanced technology and high-quality standards. However, higher labor costs can impact Japanese providers’ competitiveness.

To counter these challenges, MRO Japan has focused on high-value services like freighter conversions and EOL maintenance, where technical expertise and regulatory compliance create barriers to entry and support differentiation from lower-cost competitors.

“The Asia-Pacific region will see the largest volume of growth and activity in terms of aftermarket services, with many opportunities for additional efficiency, simplification and responsible operations.”, Cristina Aguilar Grieder, Senior VP Customer Services, Airbus

Financial Performance and Investment Trends

Corporate Structure and Financial Health

MRO Japan’s paid-in capital stands at 1 billion yen, with major shareholders including ANA Holdings, JAMCO Corporation, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. This diversified ownership ensures financial stability and access to industry expertise, while regional stakeholders such as Okinawa’s banks and utility companies reinforce local economic integration.

Major Japanese aerospace firms, such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and IHI Corporation, have reported strong financial results in recent years, supporting ongoing investment in MRO capabilities and infrastructure.

The global passenger-to-freighter conversion market is also expanding, with the Asia-Pacific share projected to grow from $808 million in 2024 to $1.79 billion by 2032, according to Consegic Business Intelligence. Japan’s entry into this market via MRO Japan’s EFW partnership is timely and strategically significant.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Management

Achieving EASA Part 145 certification in 2022 was a critical milestone for MRO Japan, enabling it to perform heavy maintenance on foreign-registered aircraft. This process required significant investment in facility upgrades, staff training, and process documentation, efforts that were complicated by COVID-19-related delays.

Advertisement

The company’s safety management systems are aligned with both JCAB and international standards, emphasizing comprehensive documentation, continuous improvement, and regular audits. This robust approach underpins MRO Japan’s reputation for reliability and safety.

The company’s workforce development strategy, including partnerships with local educational institutions, ensures a steady pipeline of skilled technicians and supports Okinawa’s broader economic growth.

Technological Innovation and Sustainability

Digital Transformation

In May 2023, MRO Japan introduced wearable cameras and 5G connectivity to its maintenance operations. These technologies improve quality assurance, enable real-time remote support, and reduce aircraft ground time. The adoption of digital tools is part of a broader industry shift toward predictive maintenance and operational efficiency.

The integration of advanced technologies positions MRO Japan at the forefront of the digital transformation sweeping through the aviation maintenance sector, supporting both operational performance and customer satisfaction.

This digitalization also supports training and documentation, ensuring best practices are consistently applied across the workforce.

Sustainability Initiatives

Environmental Sustainability is increasingly central to the Japanese MRO market. National targets call for a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2013 levels by 2035, influencing maintenance strategies and service offerings.

MRO Japan and its suppliers are adopting circular economy principles, emphasizing reuse, refurbishment, and recycling. Passenger-to-freighter conversions, for example, extend aircraft lifespans and reduce resource consumption.

These initiatives align with customer requirements for environmentally responsible services and position MRO Japan to support airline decarbonization goals.

Advertisement

Conclusion and Future Outlook

MRO Japan’s trajectory exemplifies strategic adaptation in a rapidly evolving industry. The company’s blend of technical expertise, geographic advantages, and collaborative partnerships has positioned it as a leader in Japan’s aircraft maintenance sector and a rising force in the Asia-Pacific region.

Looking ahead, continued investment in technology, workforce development, and sustainability will be essential for maintaining competitive advantages. Regional competition remains intense, but MRO Japan’s focus on high-value services, regulatory compliance, and ecosystem integration through the Okinawa Aviation Industry Cluster provides a strong foundation for future growth.

FAQ

Q: What is MRO Japan’s main business?
A: MRO Japan specializes in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for both domestic and international airlines, with capabilities spanning line and heavy maintenance, component supply, and passenger-to-freighter conversions.

Q: Why is Okinawa a strategic location for MRO Japan?
A: Okinawa’s central position in East Asia offers efficient access to major regional markets, supporting MRO Japan’s ambition to serve as a hub for aircraft maintenance in the Asia-Pacific region.

Q: What recent partnerships has MRO Japan formed?
A: MRO Japan has recently partnered with Touchdown Aviation for component supply and with Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW) for A320/A321 passenger-to-freighter conversions, enhancing its service offerings and market reach.

Q: How is MRO Japan addressing sustainability?
A: The company is adopting circular economy principles, investing in digital tools for efficiency, and supporting aircraft conversions that extend operational lifespans and reduce environmental impact.

Q: What certifications does MRO Japan hold?
A: MRO Japan holds JCAB approvals for multiple aircraft types and achieved EASA Part 145 certification for Airbus A320/A321 models in 2022, enabling it to serve international and European-registered aircraft.

Sources: MRO Japan Official News

Advertisement

Photo Credit: MRO Japan

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

MRO & Manufacturing

Airinmar Extends Aircraft Warranty Services Contract with Air Methods

Airinmar signs a multi-year extension with Air Methods to manage aircraft warranty and value engineering services for its 450+ fleet.

Published

on

This article is based on an official press release from Airinmar.

Airinmar Secures Multi-Year Service Extension with Air Methods

Airinmar, a subsidiary of AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), has officially signed a multi-year extension to provide aircraft warranty management and value engineering services to Air Methods, one of the largest civilian helicopters operators in the world. According to the company’s announcement, this agreement prolongs a partnership that originally began in August 2020, reinforcing a strategic focus on cost efficiency and supply chain optimization.

The extended contract covers a massive fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft used primarily for emergency air medical transport. Under the terms of the agreement, Airinmar will continue to manage warranty entitlements, identifying, claiming, and recovering costs from manufacturers, while also providing value engineering support to ensure maintenance expenses remain aligned with fair market values.

Scope of Services and Operational Impact

The renewal highlights the increasing importance of outsourced technical management in the aviation sector. Airinmar’s role involves a comprehensive review of component repairs and warranty opportunities. By leveraging historical data and engineering expertise, the company aims to reduce the total cost of ownership for Air Methods’ diverse fleet.

Warranty Management and Value Engineering

According to the press release, the services provided include:

  • Warranty Management: The systematic identification and recovery of warranty claims for rotorcraft and aircraft components, ensuring the operator maximizes entitlements from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
  • Value Engineering: A cost-control process that analyzes repair quotes, labor rates, and material costs to prevent overcharging and ensure repairs are economically viable compared to replacement.

Jay Mahen, Senior Vice President of Operations at Air Methods, emphasized the importance of this partnership in maintaining operational readiness for their critical missions.

“We will continue to leverage Airinmar’s comprehensive engineering knowledge and expertise to help optimize our supply chain to provide safe and reliable lifesaving emergency air medical care.”

Jay Mahen, SVP of Operations, Air Methods

Strategic Context: Efficiency in a Post-Restructuring Era

AirPro News Analysis

While the press release focuses on the continuation of services, the timing of this extension is significant when viewed against the broader financial backdrop of Air Methods. As reported in public financial disclosures, Air Methods successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late December 2023, shedding approximately $1.7 billion in debt. The company is currently navigating a “transformation journey” under new ownership, with a sharp focus on operational efficiency and profitability.

In our view, extending a contract with a specialist like Airinmar aligns perfectly with this post-restructuring strategy. For large fleet operators, the administrative burden of tracking warranties across thousands of components can be overwhelming. Outsourcing this function allows Air Methods to recover funds that might otherwise be lost to administrative oversight, directly improving the bottom line without compromising safety.

Advertisement

Furthermore, the aviation maintenance (MRO) sector is currently facing inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints. By utilizing “value engineering,” operators can scrutinize third-party vendor quotes more effectively, ensuring they are not paying inflated prices for parts or labor, a critical capability for maintaining an aging fleet of 450 aircraft.

About the Companies

Airinmar has operated for over 40 years and is a global leader in component repair cycle management. Based in Berkshire, England, it was acquired by AAR CORP., a major provider of aviation services to commercial and government customers worldwide. AAR CORP. recently reported record sales of $2.8 billion for Fiscal Year 2025, driven largely by demand for aftermarket solutions.

Air Methods is the leading air medical service provider in the United States. Operating from approximately 275 bases across 47 states, the company delivers lifesaving care to more than 100,000 people annually, functioning essentially as a “flying ICU.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Value Engineering” in aviation maintenance?

Value engineering in this context refers to the analysis of repair costs and methods to improve value. It involves verifying that repair quotes align with market rates, determining whether a component should be repaired or replaced based on reliability and cost, and ensuring that repair shops do not perform unnecessary work.

How large is the Air Methods fleet?

According to the press release and company data, Air Methods operates a fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

When did the partnership between Airinmar and Air Methods begin?

The original agreement was signed in August 2020. This recent announcement marks a multi-year extension of that initial contract.

Sources

Photo Credit: AAR Corp.

Continue Reading

MRO & Manufacturing

Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Expand Engineering Capabilities

Brookhouse Aerospace acquires Parker Precision to integrate CNC turning, milling, and grinding capabilities, enhancing supply chain services in the UK.

Published

on

This article is based on an official press release from Brookhouse Aerospace.

Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Strengthen Supply Chain Capabilities

Brookhouse Aerospace, a leading independent manufacturer of composite and metallic aero-structures based in Darwen, Lancashire, has officially announced the acquisition of Parker Precision. The move represents a significant step in Brookhouse’s strategy to vertically integrate its supply-chain and expand its internal engineering capabilities.

According to the company’s press release, the acquisition of the Wolverhampton-based precision engineering firm will allow Brookhouse to offer a more comprehensive “build-to-print” service to the aerospace and defence sectors. Parker Precision, known for its expertise in CNC turning and milling, will continue to operate from its existing facility in Bilston, retaining its 35-strong workforce.

Strategic Expansion and Vertical Integration

The acquisition is described by Brookhouse leadership as a “strategic fit” designed to bring critical precision engineering processes in-house. By integrating Parker Precision’s capabilities, specifically Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, Brookhouse aims to reduce reliance on external suppliers for these specific processes and offer a complete supply chain solution.

Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace, emphasized the value this addition brings to the group’s service portfolio:

“We are delighted to welcome Parker Precision into the Brookhouse Aerospace group. This acquisition is an excellent strategic fit, enhancing our capabilities with Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, building on our strategy of providing a complete supply chain solution.”

, Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace

Rossiter further noted that the acquisition not only secures a skilled workforce but also opens access to new customer bases while strengthening the value proposition for existing clients.

Operational Continuity and Regional Growth

Parker Precision, founded in 1952, has a long history of manufacturing, evolving from small tools for the lock industry to high-precision aerospace components. Under the new ownership structure, the company will function as a subsidiary of the Brookhouse Aerospace group. Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision, expressed optimism about the stability the deal provides:

Advertisement

“The successful completion of this acquisition provides future certainty for our team. As part of Brookhouse, we look forward to the opportunity to further enhance our capabilities and capacity, to deliver customer requirements, advance expertise in key markets and grow the business.”

, Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision

The deal connects two major UK manufacturing hubs: Brookhouse’s stronghold in the North West Aerospace Alliance region and Parker’s base in the Midlands. This regional synergy is expected to support the group’s mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing the aerospace and defence industries.

Investment in Manufacturing Excellence

This acquisition follows a period of significant investment for Brookhouse Aerospace. The company recently opened a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire, known as Balle Mill. According to verified industry reports, the company has invested heavily in new machinery to increase capacity.

Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace, framed the acquisition as a logical progression following these internal investments:

“Following our recent investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire and the installation of significant new machining capabilities, the acquisition of Parker Precision is just the next step in our mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing aerospace and defence industries.”

, Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace

Worth also indicated that the company remains in growth mode, stating that they “continue to evaluate, and are actively seeking, suitable additional opportunities.”

AirPro News Analysis

The acquisition of Parker Precision by Brookhouse Aerospace highlights a broader trend of consolidation within the aerospace supply chain. As Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) increasingly demand “one-stop-shop” solutions to reduce logistical complexity and risk, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers are under pressure to expand their internal capabilities.

By acquiring a specialist like Parker Precision, Brookhouse effectively secures its upstream supply chain for machined components. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control and potentially faster turnaround times, critical factors in the competitive aerospace and defence markets. Furthermore, retaining the Parker Precision brand and workforce suggests a strategy of stability rather than aggressive restructuring, preserving the specialized skills that make the target company valuable in the first place.

Advertisement

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Parker Precision specialize in?

Parker Precision specializes in precision CNC engineering, including CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding. They serve sectors such as Aerospace, Oil & Gas, Defence, Electronics, and Medical.

Will Parker Precision move its operations?

No. According to the announcement, Parker Precision will continue to operate from its current base in Bilston, Wolverhampton, as part of the Brookhouse Aerospace group.

How many employees does Parker Precision have?

Parker Precision employs 35 people, all of whom are being retained following the acquisition.

Who owns Brookhouse Aerospace?

Brookhouse Aerospace is owned by Nord Aerospace Holdings (specifically Nord Aerospace Bidco Limited).

Sources

Photo Credit: Brookhouse Aerospace

Continue Reading

MRO & Manufacturing

GA Telesis Expands Asia-Pacific Reach with South Korean Approval

GA Telesis Engine Services secures South Korean MOLIT certification to offer engine overhaul services and signs new deal with MIAT Mongolian Airlines.

Published

on

This article is based on an official press release from GA Telesis.

GA Telesis Engine Services Secures South Korean Regulatory Approval, Expands APAC Footprint

GA Telesis Engine Services (GATES), the Helsinki-based engine maintenance subsidiary of GA Telesis, has announced a major expansion of its operational capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. According to an official company press release, GATES has received Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) certification from South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT). This certification authorizes the facility to perform full overhaul services on specific engine models for South Korean airlines.

In a simultaneous development, the company confirmed a new engine maintenance agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines. These announcements mark a strategic push by GATES to establish itself as a primary independent alternative to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) facilities in a region heavily reliant on narrowbody aircraft.

Breaking Barriers in the South Korean Market

The newly acquired MOLIT approval is a critical regulatory milestone for GATES. Under South Korea’s Aviation Safety Act, foreign repair stations must undergo a rigorous audit of their quality control systems and technical procedures before they are permitted to release South Korean-registered aircraft to service. By securing this certification, GATES can now bid directly for heavy maintenance contracts with South Korean carriers without requiring third-party approvals.

Authorized Engine Types

According to the press release, the MOLIT approval covers full overhaul authority for three major engine types:

  • CFM56-5B: Powering the Airbus A320ceo family.
  • CFM56-7B: Powering the Boeing 737NG family.
  • CF6-80C2: Powering widebody aircraft such as the Boeing 747, 767, and Airbus A330.

This scope is particularly significant given the composition of the South Korean commercial fleet. Market data indicates that the CFM56-7B is the primary engine for the country’s low-cost carriers (LCCs), including Jeju Air, T’way Air, and Jin Air, which operate substantial fleets of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Additionally, the CF6-80C2 remains in service with major carriers like Asiana Airlines and Korean Air for their widebody operations.

“This approval allows us to bring our world-class engine maintenance solutions directly to South Korean airlines, offering them a competitive alternative for their fleet requirements.”

, Statement from GA Telesis Press Release

Strategic Partnership with MIAT Mongolian Airlines

Alongside the regulatory news, GATES announced a definitive agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines for the maintenance of its CFM56-7B engines. MIAT, the national flag carrier of Mongolia, operates a fleet centered around the Boeing 737-800. This contract underscores the technical capabilities of the Helsinki facility and provides MIAT with a maintenance partner located strategically between its Asian and European route networks.

The agreement validates GATES’ strategy of targeting operators who require flexible, cost-effective maintenance solutions outside of the traditional OEM network. By utilizing the Helsinki facility, MIAT gains access to a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) environment while maintaining logistical efficiency for its fleet.

Advertisement

AirPro News Analysis

The Rise of Independent MROs in Asia

The entry of GATES into the South Korean market represents a shift in the regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) landscape. Historically, South Korean airlines have relied heavily on OEM-affiliated shops, such as the Korean Air Tech Center, or major regional players like ST Engineering. These relationships often come with rigid pricing structures and capacity constraints.

As an independent provider, GATES is positioned to compete on turnaround time (TAT) and workscope flexibility. For LCCs operating on tight margins, the ability to perform targeted repairs, rather than mandatory full overhauls, can result in significant cost savings. The “hospital shop” concept, which focuses on surgical repairs to return engines to service quickly, is likely to appeal to carriers like T’way Air and Jeju Air as their fleets age and maintenance events become more frequent.

Furthermore, the timing of the MOLIT approval coincides with a high demand for CFM56 shop visits globally. As supply chain issues continue to plague the new engine market (LEAP and GTF), airlines are holding onto older aircraft longer, increasing the need for reliable maintenance capacity for legacy engines like the CFM56 and CF6.

Facility Capabilities and Global Reach

The GATES facility is located at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. According to company data, the site spans 180,000 square feet and features an integrated test cell capable of handling engines with up to 100,000 lbs of thrust. The facility has an annual capacity of approximately 200 engines.

With the addition of the South Korean MOLIT certification, GATES now holds approvals from major global regulators, including:

  • FAA (United States)
  • EASA (European Union)
  • CAAC (China)
  • TCCA (Canada)
  • GACA (Saudi Arabia)

This broad regulatory portfolio allows the company to serve a diverse customer base across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, reinforcing its status as a premier independent engine maintenance provider.

Sources

Photo Credit: GA Telesis

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Follow Us

newsletter

Latest

Categories

Tags

Popular News