Strengthening Aerospace Logistics: The Extended Partnership Between Sabena technics and Daher

The aerospace sector, encompassing both civil and military aviation, relies heavily on the seamless flow of materials, components, and information. In this context, logistics management is not just a support function, it is a strategic enabler of operational excellence, safety, and innovation. The recent extension of the partnership between Sabena technics and Daher at the Bordeaux-Mérignac site in France is a notable example of how integrated logistics can underpin the success of complex maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations.

On October 15, 2025, Sabena technics, a leading European provider of MRO services, renewed its agreement with Daher, a French industrial conglomerate specializing in logistics, to continue managing on-site logistics operations. This collaboration, now entering its sixth year, is not only a testament to the value created by both companies but also highlights the growing role of digitalization and transparency in modern supply chains. The partnership’s renewal signals a shared commitment to performance, innovation, and the rigorous standards demanded by the aerospace industry.

The significance of this partnership extends beyond the immediate operational benefits. It reflects broader industry trends: the increasing complexity of aircraft maintenance, the need for real-time data, and the push towards Logistics 4.0, where digital tools and integrated processes drive efficiency and adaptability. By examining the details of this collaboration, we can better understand how strategic logistics partnerships are shaping the future of aerospace maintenance.

Comprehensive Logistics at the Heart of Aerospace Maintenance

Overview of the Sabena technics–Daher Partnership

Sabena technics, with roots tracing back to the historic Belgian airline Sabena, has evolved into a prominent independent MRO provider with a global presence. Operating across 15 sites worldwide, its Bordeaux-Mérignac facility is a cornerstone of its operations, servicing a wide range of aircraft, including Airbus, Boeing, and military platforms such as the C-130. At this site, the efficiency and reliability of logistics are critical to maintaining operational tempo and meeting customer expectations.

Daher, established in 1863, brings a broad industrial background and specialized expertise in supply chain management. Its logistics division designs and operates end-to-end logistics flows, manages warehousing, and coordinates the transport of components, including oversized aircraft parts. By partnering with Daher, Sabena technics ensures that its maintenance teams have timely access to the right parts and materials, minimizing downtime and maximizing aircraft availability.

The partnership covers the entire on-site logistics chain: receiving parts, storage, inventory management, internal distribution to maintenance bays, packaging, order preparation, and outbound shipment. This integrated approach allows Sabena technics to focus on its core MRO competencies while leveraging Daher’s process optimization and logistics expertise.

Over the past five years, this collaboration has become a model for how specialized logistics providers can add value in technically demanding environments. The extension of the agreement reaffirms the mutual trust and the proven track record of operational excellence achieved at Bordeaux-Mérignac.

“Our priority remains reliable logistics, driven by performance, innovation and operational excellence, all closely aligned with the needs of the teams.” — Aymeric Daher, Deputy CEO, Daher Group

Criticality of Logistics in Aerospace MRO

In the aerospace sector, logistics is more than just moving parts from one place to another. Every component, whether a small fastener or a large engine, must be tracked, handled, and delivered with precision. The stakes are high: delays or errors can lead to grounded aircraft, missed deadlines, and increased costs. At Bordeaux-Mérignac, the logistics operations managed by Daher are vital for maintaining the flow of parts necessary for both routine and heavy maintenance checks.

The comprehensive scope of Daher’s services ensures that maintenance teams receive the parts they need, when they need them, and in optimal condition. This reliability not only improves turnaround times for aircraft but also supports the stringent safety and quality standards that define the aerospace industry. By outsourcing logistics to a specialized partner, Sabena technics can allocate more resources to technical operations and customer service.

The success of this model is evident in the continued partnership and the operational stability it provides. As aircraft become more technologically advanced and maintenance requirements grow more complex, the importance of robust, transparent, and agile logistics solutions will only increase.

Digitalization and Transparency: The Role of KeepTracking

Implementation of Digital Tools

A defining feature of the renewed Sabena technics–Daher partnership is the integration of digital solutions to enhance logistics performance. Daher has deployed “KeepTracking,” a cloud-based application designed to digitize and provide traceability for logistics processes. This tool is modular and customizable, supporting a range of activities, from receiving goods to line-side delivery and shipping.

The KeepTracking platform includes a web interface for supervisors and a mobile application for field operators. This dual approach ensures that information flows seamlessly across all levels of the operation, enabling real-time updates, quick decision-making, and efficient task management. The system also structures communications and allows for the continuous monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs).

On-site monitor screens display real-time logistics data, further enhancing visibility and team engagement. By providing instant feedback on performance metrics, these digital tools empower operators to identify bottlenecks, prioritize actions, and adapt to changing priorities, ultimately driving continuous improvement.

“KeepTracking is an innovative cloud application, which allows you to extend traceability into the furthest reaches of your supply chain.” — KeepTracking Product Overview

Benefits and Broader Impact of Digitalization

The deployment of KeepTracking at Bordeaux-Mérignac is part of a larger trend towards Logistics 4.0 in the aerospace industry. Digitalization offers several benefits: improved communication between teams, real-time visibility of logistics flows, structured performance monitoring, and enhanced ability to prioritize and execute tasks. These capabilities are especially valuable in high-stakes environments where precision and speed are essential.

For Sabena technics, the adoption of KeepTracking means greater transparency and accountability across its logistics chain. Maintenance teams can trust that required parts will be available when needed, while management gains insights into operational efficiency and areas for further improvement. For Daher, the successful implementation of digital tools strengthens its position as a leader in industrial logistics and supports its broader strategic goals under the “Take Off 2027” plan.

The impact of such digitalization efforts extends beyond the immediate partnership. As more companies in the aerospace sector embrace advanced logistics solutions, industry standards for transparency, traceability, and responsiveness are likely to rise. This, in turn, can contribute to higher safety, reduced costs, and improved service for end customers.

Conclusion: Future Directions in Aerospace Logistics Partnerships

The extended partnership between Sabena technics and Daher at Bordeaux-Mérignac demonstrates the critical role of integrated, digitalized logistics in supporting the demanding requirements of aerospace MRO operations. By leveraging Daher’s expertise and innovative tools like KeepTracking, Sabena technics can optimize its maintenance processes, improve operational performance, and better serve its customers in both the civil and military sectors.

Looking ahead, the collaboration serves as a blueprint for how logistics partnerships can evolve in the face of increasing complexity and technological change. As the aerospace industry continues to embrace digitalization and data-driven decision-making, partnerships that prioritize transparency, agility, and continuous improvement will be well-positioned to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s aviation landscape.

FAQ

Question: What is the main purpose of the Sabena technics and Daher partnership?
Answer: The partnership is focused on managing the entire on-site logistics chain for Sabena technics’ maintenance operations at Bordeaux-Mérignac, ensuring efficient, reliable, and transparent supply of parts and materials.

Question: What is KeepTracking and how does it benefit the partnership?
Answer: KeepTracking is a cloud-based digital tool used by Daher to digitize logistics processes, improve traceability, monitor performance in real time, and enhance communication and efficiency across the logistics chain.

Question: Why is digitalization important in aerospace logistics?
Answer: Digitalization enables real-time data sharing, better decision-making, and improved operational efficiency, all of which are critical in the highly regulated and complex environment of aerospace maintenance and logistics.

Question: How long has the partnership between Sabena technics and Daher been in place?
Answer: The partnership began five years ago and was renewed in October 2025, marking a significant milestone in their ongoing collaboration.

Sources: Daher