MRO & Manufacturing
Liebherr Aerospace Expands Michigan Facility to Boost MRO Services
Liebherr-Aerospace opens a new 33,000 sq ft Michigan facility to enhance MRO capabilities amid growing aerospace market demand.
Liebherr-Aerospace’s recent expansion in Saline, Michigan, marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing commitment to the aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector. On October 1, 2025, the company officially opened a new 33,000 square foot facility, representing the fifth expansion at this location since 1993. This development comes at a time when the global aerospace MRO market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by increasing aircraft utilization, aging fleets, and supply chain constraints that have extended the operational life of existing aircraft.
The Michigan facility’s expansion is not an isolated event but part of Liebherr’s broader strategy to enhance its global footprint and service capabilities, particularly in North-America. With the aerospace MRO market projected to reach $187.3 billion by 2030, Liebherr’s investment aligns with industry dynamics and positions the company to meet the evolving needs of commercial, military, and business aviation customers. This article explores the significance of Liebherr’s expansion, the context of the global MRO market, and the broader implications for the aerospace industry.
By examining the company’s historical foundation, facility specifications, market context, and strategic direction, we gain insight into how Liebherr is leveraging its legacy and expertise to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving sector. The analysis also considers the company’s financial performance, technological innovation, and commitment to sustainability, providing a comprehensive overview of its strategic positioning in the aerospace MRO landscape.
Liebherr’s origins trace back to 1949, when Hans Liebherr founded the company in Germany with the invention of the mobile tower crane. This innovation laid the groundwork for a family-run technology enterprise that would grow into a global leader in construction equipment and, later, aerospace systems. Liebherr entered the aerospace sector in 1960, establishing Liebherr-Aero-Technik GmbH in Lindenberg, Germany, and began developing proprietary components and systems for aircraft.
Over the decades, Liebherr-Aerospace evolved from a license holder to a comprehensive system provider, focusing on in-house development and manufacturing. Today, Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation SAS, headquartered in Toulouse, France, is one of 13 product segments within the Liebherr Group. The division serves civil and defense aviation markets worldwide, offering environmental control, flight control, landing gear, and on-board electronics for a wide range of aircraft, as well as HVAC systems for rail vehicles.
The Liebherr Group’s financial strength underpins its expansion capabilities. In 2024, the group reported a record revenue of €14,622 million, with a global workforce exceeding 54,700. This scale and stability enable significant investments in new facilities and technologies, supporting the aerospace division’s growth and resilience even amid market fluctuations.
The newly inaugurated building at Liebherr-Aerospace Saline, Inc. spans 33,000 square feet (3,065 square meters) and adjoins the company’s existing facilities in Michigan. This latest expansion, opened in October 2025, was celebrated by over 300 employees and local stakeholders, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to the region since the site’s establishment in 1993.
Designed to address growing customer demand, the facility enhances Liebherr’s capacity for testing, repair, overhaul, and recore of heat transfer equipment used in aircraft from major Manufacturers such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, Embraer, and Mitsubishi. The expansion also increases landing gear processing capabilities and enlarges the area for pneumatic component MRO activities, optimizing internal processes and supporting a wider range of products. This investment is strategically timed, as the global aerospace MRO market is projected to grow from $135.7 billion in 2024 to $187.3 billion by 2030. North America’s component MRO segment alone is valued at approximately $6.5 billion annually, highlighting the importance of localized, state-of-the-art facilities that can provide rapid turnaround and high-quality service to airline operators facing increased operational pressures.
“The positive and overwhelming acceptance by our customers has allowed us to expand our offerings worldwide, thus validating our strategy to be close to our customers. Furthermore, by expanding the network we are shortening the overall Turn Around Time by eliminating transportation time, cutting down on cost and lowering our carbon footprint.”, Alex Vlielander, Chief Customer Officer, Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation SAS
The aerospace MRO industry is undergoing significant transformation, driven by several key factors. The average age of the global aircraft fleet has increased to 13.4 years, up from 12.1 years in 2024, primarily due to production backlogs and delayed deliveries of new aircraft. As airlines operate older planes longer, the need for regular and sophisticated maintenance intensifies, creating sustained demand for MRO services.
Supply chain challenges have resulted in a backlog of over 17,000 unfilled aircraft orders, with current production rates indicating a 14-year wait to clear these orders. Regulatory directives have further increased MRO demand, requiring extensive inspections of critical engine components on thousands of aircraft. Airlines are maximizing utilization of their existing fleets, with global aircraft utilization projected to exceed 112 million flight hours annually by 2035, a 39% increase from 2024.
Component MRO, in particular, has seen a surge in demand. This segment benefits from the complexity of modern aircraft systems and the need for specialized expertise in maintaining components such as heat exchangers, landing gear, and pneumatic systems. Industry experts highlight that delayed aircraft deliveries and extended use of older fleets have fueled greater reliance on component maintenance, directly benefiting providers like Liebherr.
North America is the world’s largest aerospace MRO market, with a market size of $24.1 billion in 2024 and forecasts indicating growth to almost $30 billion by 2034. The region’s dominance is supported by a large installed base of commercial and military aircraft, as well as a robust network of MRO providers, including OEMs and independent service organizations.
Liebherr competes with major players such as General Electric Aviation and Lufthansa Technik, both of which generate substantial revenue from their MRO operations. The U.S. aerospace component MRO market was valued at $3.9 billion in 2019, with landing gear maintenance accounting for over 18% of global revenue share in this segment. Liebherr’s expanded Michigan facility, with its focus on landing gear and heat transfer systems, is well positioned to capture additional market share.
The regulatory environment also shapes demand, with Federal Aviation Regulations mandating maintenance programs for various classes of operators. Part 121 carriers and Part 135 operators must adhere to strict inspection and overhaul intervals, ensuring a steady flow of work for MRO providers. Liebherr’s proximity to key airline customers in North America offers a logistical advantage, reducing turnaround times and transportation costs.
Liebherr’s expansion strategy centers on customer proximity, operational efficiency, and a comprehensive service offering. By investing in local facilities, the company can reduce turnaround times, improve cost efficiency, and minimize the environmental impact associated with long-distance shipping of components. This approach aligns with customer expectations for rapid, reliable service and supports airlines’ efforts to maximize aircraft availability. The Michigan facility’s capabilities reflect industry trends toward integrated, multi-product MRO services. By offering testing, repair, overhaul, and recore for heat transfer equipment and other components, Liebherr provides a one-stop solution for operators of Airbus, Boeing, and other major aircraft types. This integration simplifies maintenance logistics for customers and enhances Liebherr’s value proposition.
Liebherr also emphasizes employee engagement and sustainable operations. The company recognizes the contributions of its workforce and incorporates environmentally friendly technologies and processes into its facilities. These efforts not only improve operational performance but also support the company’s broader commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainability.
“It is also important that we recognize the sustainable contributions of our employees. This milestone is proof of their daily contribution to our success. Thanks to their tireless commitment and the new local conditions that the new building provides us with, we can respond even more quickly to the growing demand from our customers and strengthen our long-term competitiveness.”, Will Dew, Managing Director Commercial, Liebherr-Aerospace Saline
Liebherr’s strong financial performance enables continued investment in facility expansion, research, and technological development. The aerospace division contributed €1.3 billion to group sales in 2016, and the group’s overall revenue reached €14,622 million in 2024. This financial stability supports ongoing projects in Michigan, Brazil, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific region, reflecting confidence in long-term market growth.
Beyond physical expansion, Liebherr invests heavily in innovation. The company has developed environmentally friendly High-Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF) coating processes as alternatives to traditional chrome-plating, meeting regulatory requirements without compromising quality. Digitalization initiatives, such as predictive maintenance and advanced data analytics, are being integrated across operations to enhance efficiency and customer service.
The company’s global logistics strategy also plays a crucial role. The new logistics center in Tupelo, Mississippi, with a $176 million investment, will serve as a continental warehouse for the Americas, supporting aerospace and other product segments. This integration streamlines parts availability and distribution, further strengthening Liebherr’s MRO capabilities in North America.
Environmental Sustainability is a core element of Liebherr’s corporate strategy. The Michigan facility’s proximity to key markets reduces transportation-related carbon emissions, while investments in advanced coating technologies and energy-efficient infrastructure demonstrate the company’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact.
The company’s initiatives extend to workforce development and community engagement. By recognizing employee contributions and fostering a culture of innovation and responsibility, Liebherr ensures that its growth benefits not only customers but also local communities and the broader industry.
These efforts are complemented by global investments in sustainable facility design, renewable energy integration, and process optimization, positioning Liebherr as a responsible leader in the aerospace MRO sector. Liebherr-Aerospace’s expansion in Michigan exemplifies a strategic, well-timed investment that addresses both current and future demands in the aerospace MRO market. The new facility enhances capacity, reduces turnaround times, and improves customer proximity, all while supporting the company’s broader goals of sustainability and operational excellence.
As the global MRO market continues to grow, driven by aging fleets, production backlogs, and increased aircraft utilization, Liebherr’s integrated approach, combining OEM expertise, advanced technology, and a focus on customer service, positions the company for continued leadership. Ongoing investments in innovation, logistics, and sustainability will enable Liebherr to adapt to industry trends and maintain its competitive edge in the years ahead.
What is the significance of Liebherr-Aerospace’s new Michigan facility? How does the new facility align with industry trends? What sustainability measures are incorporated in Liebherr’s expansion? How does Liebherr’s investment strategy support its growth? What are the future prospects for the aerospace MRO market?
Liebherr-Aerospace’s Strategic Expansion in the United States: New Michigan Facility Strengthens Global MRO Capabilities
Corporate Background and Historical Foundation
The New Michigan Facility: Specifications and Strategic Importance
Market Dynamics and Industry Context
Regional Market Analysis and Competitive Landscape
Strategic Positioning and Customer Value Proposition
Financial Performance, Investment, and Innovation
Environmental Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
Conclusion
FAQ
The facility expands Liebherr’s MRO capacity for heat transfer equipment, landing gear, and pneumatic components, addressing growing demand in North America and supporting faster turnaround times for airline customers.
It responds to increased MRO demand driven by aging aircraft fleets, supply chain delays, and higher aircraft utilization, and positions Liebherr to serve a growing market with advanced, localized services.
The company emphasizes reduced transportation emissions, environmentally friendly coating technologies, and energy-efficient facility design as part of its commitment to sustainability.
Strong financial performance enables ongoing investment in facility expansion, logistics, and technological innovation, supporting long-term competitiveness and market leadership.
The global MRO market is projected to grow to $187.3 billion by 2030, driven by continued aircraft utilization, aging fleets, and technological advancements in maintenance and repair.
Sources
Photo Credit: Liebherr-Aerospace
MRO & Manufacturing
StandardAero Begins Gulfstream Service at Expanded Augusta Facility
StandardAero has started servicing Gulfstream GIV-SP jets at its expanded Augusta, Georgia facility, featuring new hangar space and engine maintenance capabilities.
This article is based on an official press release from StandardAero.
StandardAero has officially commenced Gulfstream service operations at its newly expanded facility in Augusta, Georgia. The aerospace maintenance provider announced on Tuesday that it has inducted its first two Gulfstream aircraft for service events at the Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) site, marking a significant milestone following the facility’s major expansion in late 2025.
The induction of these aircraft highlights the company’s strategic push to broaden its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities for business aviation. According to StandardAero, the Augusta center is now actively scheduling service events for Gulfstream GIV and GV models through 2026, with plans to add support for additional models in the near future.
The recent activity at the Augusta service center follows a grand opening ceremony held in August 2025, which celebrated the completion of a new 80,500-square-foot facility. StandardAero reports that this expansion included a dedicated aircraft maintenance hangar designed specifically to accommodate super mid-size to large-cabin aircraft.
In addition to airframe support, the site features an expanded engine shop focused on the company’s growing heavy maintenance operations for Honeywell HTF7000 engines. This infrastructure investment allows the Augusta location to serve as a comprehensive hub for both airframe and engine MRO services.
We take great pride in delivering on our commitments, and we are thrilled to have seen the first couple of Gulfstream aircraft enter our facility and be well on their way to delivery post-service from Augusta.
Tony Brancato, President of StandardAero Business Aviation
The first two vessels to enter the facility were both Gulfstream GIV-SP aircraft. StandardAero detailed the scope of work for these initial projects:
To support these complex projects, the company has assembled a specialized team at the Augusta site. Chris Bodine, Vice President and General Manager of StandardAero AGS, noted the importance of this specialized workforce in meeting the demand for legacy Gulfstream support.
We are extremely fortunate to have formed a Gulfstream specialty maintenance crew to add to the existing expertise of our site here in Augusta.
Chris Bodine, Vice President / General Manager of StandardAero AGS
StandardAero currently offers “CompleteCare” support for Gulfstream operators across a network that includes Augusta, Georgia; Springfield, Illinois; and Van Nuys, California. The company also provides engine and APU support for Rolls-Royce Tay, BR710, and Honeywell platforms.
The inclusion of a Starlink installation in one of the very first service events at the new Augusta facility underscores a major trend in business aviation MRO: the rush for high-speed connectivity. As Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite solutions become certified for more airframes, MRO providers are increasingly treating connectivity upgrades as a standard part of heavy maintenance checks rather than standalone events.
Furthermore, by explicitly targeting the GIV and GV markets, StandardAero is positioning itself to capture the long-tail revenue of legacy fleets. These aircraft remain workhorses in the charter and private sectors, requiring intensive maintenance as they age. Expanding capacity for these specific models in the southeastern United States addresses a critical regional need for high-quality independent MRO options.
The facility is located at Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) in Augusta, Georgia.
The facility is currently scheduling events for Gulfstream GIV and GV models, with the first inductions being GIV-SP aircraft.
One of the initial aircraft is receiving a Starlink satellite internet installation alongside its airframe inspection.
StandardAero Inducts First Gulfstream Jets at Expanded Augusta Facility
Facility Expansion and Capabilities
First Inductions and Connectivity Upgrades
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the new service center located?
Which aircraft models are currently being serviced?
What specific upgrades were mentioned?
Sources
Photo Credit: StandardAero
MRO & Manufacturing
Erickson Acquires Full Ownership of 321 Precision Conversions from ATSG
Erickson Group Ltd. acquires 100% ownership of 321 Precision Conversions, consolidating the Airbus A321-200 freighter program previously shared with ATSG.
This article is based on an official press release from Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) and Erickson Group Ltd.
On February 24, 2026, Erickson Group Ltd. announced the acquisition of full ownership of 321 Precision Conversions, LLC. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Precision Aircraft Solutions, LLC, Erickson purchased the minority interest previously held by Air Transport Services Group, Inc. (ATSG). This transaction formally ends the joint venture structure, consolidating the Airbus A321-200 freighter conversion program entirely under the Erickson family office.
The deal marks a significant shift in the narrowbody freighter conversion market. For Erickson, the move signals a deepened commitment to the A321 platform, while for ATSG, the divestiture aligns with a broader strategy to streamline assets and focus on its core leasing and operational models.
According to the official announcement, the acquisition allows Erickson Group Ltd. to align the engineering, sales, and marketing of the A321-200PCF program directly with its manufacturing capabilities. Previously, 321 Precision Conversions operated as a joint venture between ATSG and Precision Aircraft Solutions. With this buyout, Erickson moves from a majority stakeholder to a 100% owner.
Gary Warner, President of 321 Precision Conversions, emphasized that the consolidation of ownership will facilitate future growth and development.
“Full ownership under Erickson enables us to invest more boldly in our people, our partners, and the next generation of conversion programs.”
, Gary Warner, President of 321 Precision Conversions
While financial terms of the private transaction were not disclosed in the press release, the operational impact is immediate. Precision Aircraft Solutions, known for developing the industry-standard Boeing 757 freighter conversion, will now fully control the strategic direction of its Airbus counterpart.
For ATSG, selling its equity stake in the conversion program represents a strategic pivot rather than a market exit. The company confirmed it will remain a key customer of the A321-200PCF, continuing to lease and market the aircraft as part of its Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM) portfolio. Todd France, Chief Commercial Officer of ATSG, noted that the relationship between the two entities remains strong despite the change in ownership structure.
“We look forward to continuing to market the A321 converted freighter as part of ATSG’s broader leasing portfolio.”
, Todd France, Chief Commercial Officer, ATSG
We view this divestiture as a logical step for ATSG as it prepares for its transition to a private entity. Following the shareholder approval of the approximately $3.1 billion acquisition by Stonepeak in February 2025, ATSG has been focused on streamlining its operations. By shedding non-core equity stakes in manufacturing programs, ATSG can concentrate capital on its primary business model: Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) and dry leasing.
Furthermore, the A321-200PCF remains a critical asset for ATSG’s customers. By retaining the commercial relationship without the burden of joint venture management, ATSG mitigates program risk while maintaining access to the feedstock required to replace aging Boeing 757 fleets.
The acquisition comes at a time when the narrowbody freighter market is maturing. The A321-200PCF is widely regarded as the designated successor to the Boeing 757-200 freighter, offering the unique ability to carry containerized cargo on the lower deck, a capability unmatched by other narrowbody freighters like the Boeing 737-800BCF.
Erickson’s move to take full control suggests high confidence in the longevity of the A321 program. Industry observers note that the “next generation of conversion programs” mentioned by Warner likely alludes to future developments for the Airbus A321neo (New Engine Option), ensuring the company remains competitive as feedstock for the current A321ceo (Current Engine Option) eventually tightens.
321 Precision Conversions competes primarily with EFW (a joint venture between Airbus and ST Engineering). Precision’s conversion is frequently cited for its lower operating empty weight (OEW), which translates to higher payload capacity, a critical metric for express carriers.
Erickson Group Ltd. Acquires Full Ownership of 321 Precision Conversions from ATSG
Transaction Overview
Strategic Rationale for ATSG
AirPro News Analysis
Market Context: The A321 Landscape
About the Companies
Sources
Photo Credit: Precision Aircraft Solutions
MRO & Manufacturing
Collins Aerospace Invests $40M to Expand Puerto Rico Operations
Collins Aerospace invests over $40 million to expand facilities in Puerto Rico, creating 525 new engineering and manufacturing jobs.
Collins Aerospace, a business unit of RTX (NYSE: RTX), has announced a commitment to invest more than $40 million to expand and modernize its operations in Puerto Rico. The initiative, announced on February 23, 2026, by Governor Jenniffer González Colón, targets the company’s facilities in Santa Isabel and Aguadilla. According to the official announcement, the project is expected to create approximately 525 new full-time positions in engineering and manufacturing.
The investment marks a significant increase in the aerospace giant’s footprint on the island. With the addition of these new roles, Collins Aerospace projects its local workforce will reach nearly 2,100 employees. This growth will bring the total number of RTX employees in Puerto Rico to approximately 3,500. The expansion focuses on upgrading infrastructure, machinery, and equipment to support “end-to-end electronics operations,” ranging from initial design to final manufacturing.
The capital injection will be split between two primary locations, each serving a distinct function within the Collins Aerospace supply chain. The company states that the investment is designed to enhance support and delivery times for customers through the implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies.
The Santa Isabel facility, which specializes in electronics and electromechanical components, will see significant infrastructure updates. The company plans to utilize the investment to optimize productivity through “scalable automation solutions” and “connected factories.”
According to the press release, the Santa Isabel location delivers a wide range of critical systems, including:
In Aguadilla, the focus remains on engineering services. This facility provides support across the entire product life cycle, including design, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) for integrated systems. The expansion is expected to bolster the site’s capacity to handle complex engineering tasks for the aerospace and defense sectors.
The announcement event, held at La Fortaleza in San Juan, highlighted the collaboration between the private sector and the Puerto Rican government. Attendees included Governor Colón, Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC) Secretary Sebastián Negrón Reichard, and Puerto Rico Industrial Development Company (PRIDCO) Executive Director Roberto Lefranc Fortuño.
Javier Ramis Rivero, vice president of global operations for Collins, emphasized the strategic importance of the island to the company’s long-term goals: “Puerto Rico is a strategic hub for Collins’ continued sustainable growth. Our planned expansion will create a shared infrastructure focused on end-to-end electronics operations, from design to manufacturing, enhancing support and on time delivery for our customers.”
Javier Ramis Rivero, Vice President of Global Operations, Collins Aerospace
Governor Colón framed the investment as a validation of Puerto Rico’s industrial policy, noting that the expansion demonstrates confidence in the island’s talent pool and infrastructure. DDEC Secretary Negrón Reichard added that the project would have a direct impact on the creation of specialized jobs and the strengthening of the local aerospace value chain.
This $40 million investment reinforces Puerto Rico’s status as a growing hub for the U.S. aerospace and defense industry. The move aligns with broader “reshoring” trends, where major U.S. defense contractors seek to secure supply chains within domestic jurisdictions that offer competitive operating costs. By expanding “hands-on learning areas” and engineering capabilities, Collins Aerospace is likely leveraging Puerto Rico’s high output of bilingual STEM graduates, a critical resource for companies implementing Industry 4.0 technologies.
Furthermore, the involvement of PRIDCO suggests the revitalization of existing industrial properties, a strategy often used to maximize the utility of state-owned infrastructure while minimizing new construction lead times. This expansion places Collins alongside other major aerospace players on the island, such as Lufthansa Technik and Honeywell, solidifying the region’s aerospace cluster.
What is the total value of the investment? How many jobs will be created? Which locations are being expanded? What types of products are manufactured at these sites?
Collins Aerospace Announces $40 Million Expansion in Puerto Rico
Operational Upgrades in Santa Isabel and Aguadilla
Santa Isabel: Manufacturing Modernization
Aguadilla: Engineering Growth
Strategic Partnership and Government Support
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Collins Aerospace is investing more than $40 million in its Puerto Rico operations.
The project is expected to add approximately 525 full-time engineering and manufacturing jobs.
The investment targets facilities in Santa Isabel (manufacturing) and Aguadilla (engineering).
The facilities produce digital controller systems, electrical power controllers, and communications systems including radar and RF technologies.Sources
Photo Credit: RTX
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