MRO & Manufacturing
B&H Worldwide Expands Global Logistics Partnership with Ontic
B&H Worldwide secures a global warehousing contract with Ontic to enhance aerospace logistics and AOG support across key international hubs.
B&H Worldwide and Ontic Forge Global Logistics Partnership
In the high-stakes world of aerospace, where a grounded aircraft can represent significant financial losses, the efficiency of the supply chain is paramount. A new agreement is set to reinforce this critical backbone of the industry. B&H Worldwide, a prominent aerospace logistics provider, has officially secured a global warehousing and logistics contract with Ontic, a major Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in the aerospace sector. This development marks a significant expansion of a long-standing relationship, moving their collaboration from a regional focus to a global stage.
The partnership is designed to provide strategic support for Ontic’s continued international growth. For an OEM like Ontic, which supplies established aircraft parts to leading aerospace companies, having a robust and responsive logistics network is not just an operational advantage, it’s a core component of its customer commitment. This contract leverages B&H Worldwide’s specialized expertise and global infrastructure to ensure that Ontic’s parts are available where and when they are needed most, particularly in urgent Aircraft-on-Ground (AOG) situations. The official signing ceremony at MRO Europe underscores the strategic importance of this collaboration, signaling a new phase of enhanced service delivery for the global aviation market.
A Comprehensive Service Framework
Under the terms of the new contract, B&H Worldwide will manage a comprehensive suite of logistics services for Ontic. The scope involves holding and managing an inventory of over 3,000 distinct items. This is not merely about storage; it encompasses a detailed inventory management process that includes full packaging, consignment, and meticulous document checks upon both receipt and dispatch of parts. These procedures are vital for ensuring the integrity of sensitive aerospace components and maintaining strict regulatory compliance, which is non-negotiable in the aviation industry.
The agreement also covers specialized requirements, including the handling of dangerous goods, a complex and highly regulated area of logistics. B&H Worldwide will facilitate both routine and, critically, AOG shipping services. The ability to expedite parts during an AOG event is a key performance indicator in aerospace logistics, as it directly impacts an airline’s or MRO’s (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) ability to return an aircraft to service. This dual capability ensures that Ontic can support its customers’ needs across the full spectrum of operational tempos, from planned maintenance to unforeseen emergencies.
“This new contract reflects the confidence the business places in our ability to deliver high-quality, secure, and efficient logistics solutions worldwide. Our dedicated teams and proven systems will ensure Ontic’s customers continue to benefit from reliable support, whether for routine shipments or urgent AOG requirements.”
– Gary Wilson, Group Managing Director of B&H Worldwide.
To provide transparency and control over this complex global operation, Ontic will have full access to B&H Worldwide’s proprietary warehouse management system, FirstTRAC. This technology platform allows for real-time tracking and monitoring of global inventory, giving Ontic clear visibility into its supply chain. Such technological integration is crucial for modern logistics, enabling proactive management, accurate forecasting, and swift decision-making. It transforms the supply chain from a simple sequence of movements into an interconnected, data-driven ecosystem.
Strategic Global Positioning and Future Implications
The partnership’s global nature is anchored by strategically chosen warehouse locations in London, Miami, and Singapore. These hubs are not arbitrary; they represent key logistical crossroads in the global aviation network, providing optimal access to major markets in Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific. By positioning critical inventory in these locations, Ontic and B&H can significantly reduce shipping times and enhance responsiveness to customer requests from anywhere in the world. This geographic distribution is fundamental to delivering on the promise of minimizing downtime and maximizing operational efficiency for airlines and MROs.
This agreement is an evolution of a partnership that dates back several years. Previously, the collaboration was more focused, with B&H managing Ontic’s AOG support assets from a facility at London’s Heathrow Airport. The expansion to a global framework demonstrates the success of the initial model and the mutual trust built between the two companies. It represents a strategic alignment where B&H’s specialized logistics infrastructure directly supports Ontic’s global growth ambitions and its commitment to superior aftermarket support.
“As we continue to expand our global footprint, having B&H’s expertise and infrastructure supporting our AOG and Exchange inventory means we can deliver even greater reliability, responsiveness, and speed to our customers. With critical inventory now strategically located across London, Miami, and Singapore, we can ensure our customers receive the parts and support they need, when and where they need them.”
– Jack Karapetyan, Vice President & General Manager, Global MRO Operations of Ontic.
The collaboration is poised to set a new benchmark for service excellence in AOG logistics and exchange management. In an industry where every minute of downtime counts, the ability to deliver the right part quickly is a powerful competitive differentiator. This partnership is structured to do exactly that, combining physical infrastructure, technological platforms, and deep industry expertise to create a highly resilient and efficient supply chain. It reflects a broader trend in the aerospace industry, where OEMs and logistics specialists are forming deeper, more integrated partnerships to navigate the complexities of the global aftermarket.
Conclusion: A New Standard in Aerospace Logistics
The expanded global contract between B&H Worldwide and Ontic is more than a simple business agreement; it is a strategic move to enhance the resilience and responsiveness of the aerospace aftermarket. By leveraging B&H’s global network, specialized services, and advanced technology, Ontic is better positioned to support its customers worldwide, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner. The focus on key hubs in London, Miami, and Singapore ensures that critical parts are closer to the point of need, directly addressing the industry’s core challenge of minimizing aircraft downtime.
Ultimately, this partnership is designed to deliver tangible benefits to airlines and MROs through increased reliability and speed. It serves as a clear example of how collaboration between OEMs and logistics experts can create a more efficient and robust global supply chain. As the aerospace industry continues to evolve, such strategic alliances will likely become even more critical in ensuring that the global fleet remains operational, efficient, and safe.
FAQ
Question: What is the primary goal of the new contract between B&H Worldwide and Ontic?
Answer: The primary goal is to provide global warehousing and logistics support for Ontic’s continued international growth, enhancing its aftermarket support and responsiveness to customers, especially for Aircraft-on-Ground (AOG) situations.
Question: Which key locations will be part of this global warehousing agreement?
Answer: The agreement will utilize strategically located warehouses in London, Miami, and Singapore to serve customers across Europe, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific region.
Question: What technology will Ontic use to manage its global inventory?
Answer: Ontic will use B&H Worldwide’s proprietary warehouse management system, FirstTRAC, to track and monitor its global inventory in real-time.
Question: What specific services will B&H Worldwide provide to Ontic?
Answer: B&H Worldwide will provide premium inventory management for over 3,000 items, full packaging, consignment and document checks, dangerous goods handling, and both routine and AOG shipping services.
Sources:
Photo Credit: B&H Worldwide
MRO & Manufacturing
Vietjet and Thales Sign MRO and Digital Aviation Agreements
Vietjet and Thales finalized a Repair-By-The-Hour maintenance contract and an AI and cybersecurity MoU in September 2026.
Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company (Vietjet) and Thales Group have finalized a long-term component maintenance agreement and a digital transformation pact, securing aftermarket support for the carrier’s expanding Airbus fleet while integrating artificial intelligence and cybersecurity into its operations.
In a press release issued on September 15, 2026, Thales announced that the “Repair-By-The-Hour” (RBTH) contract and a concurrent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were signed on September 10, 2026. The signing took place at the Élysée Palace in Paris during a Vietnamese state delegation visit, overseen by French President Emmanuel Macron and Vietnamese General Secretary and President To Lam.
Maintenance and fleet support
The RBTH contract provides Vietjet with long-term component maintenance services covering its Airbus A320 family and Airbus A330 family aircraft. The agreement is designed to optimize fleet availability and lower operational lifecycle costs as the Airlines scales its flight schedule to meet regional and international demand.
Vietjet has recorded substantial operational growth throughout the year. According to reporting by TechNode Global, the airline generated consolidated revenue of VND51.54 trillion ($2 billion) in the first half of 2026, representing a 44 percent year-over-year increase. During that six-month period, Vietjet carried 13.4 million passengers across approximately 72,000 flights.
The Thales agreement is part of a broader procurement and maintenance strategy executed during the September 2026 state visit. TTR Weekly reported that Vietjet also signed a Letter of Intent with CFM International to assess engine support and maintenance capabilities, further solidifying its European aerospace supply chain.
Digital aviation and cybersecurity
Alongside the maintenance contract, the two companies signed an MoU focused on digital aviation. The agreement outlines cooperation in connectivity, cybersecurity, and AI applied directly to airline operations. The initiative aims to protect critical aviation systems while advancing the carrier’s digital transformation.
Thales brings established regional infrastructure to the partnership. The technology firm has maintained a corporate presence in Vietnam for 30 years and currently employs a workforce that includes 800 AI experts.
“Our partnership with Thales will not only enhance the reliability, safety and operational efficiency of Vietjet’s fleet, but also open up new areas of cooperation in digital technology, AI and cybersecurity,” said Nguyen Thanh Son, CEO of Vietjet. “Together with leading French partners, we look forward to connecting technological expertise with a dynamic aviation market, contributing to stronger trade, investment and ties between Vietnam and France.”
Pascale Sourisse, CEO of Thales International, stated that the company intends to support the airline’s next phase of growth through advanced technology and operational excellence.
Bilateral aerospace cooperation
The finalized contracts reinforce the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between France and Vietnam in October 2024. That diplomatic framework explicitly identified aviation as a key pillar of bilateral cooperation, paving the way for state-backed commercial agreements between Vietnamese operators and French aerospace Manufacturers.
AirPro News analysis
We view Vietjet’s concurrent agreements with European aerospace firms as a calculated move to stabilize its operational foundation amid rapid network expansion. By locking in long-term, predictable MRO costs through the Thales RBTH contract and the CFM International engine support assessment, the carrier is mitigating the Supply-Chain volatility that has constrained global fleet availability. The formal integration of cybersecurity and AI initiatives indicates a maturation of Vietjet’s operational infrastructure, aligning its technological capabilities with its high-growth financial trajectory.
Sources: Thales Group
Photo Credit: Thales Group
MRO & Manufacturing
TARMAC Aerosave and AerFin to Dismantle 10 A320neo and 737 MAX
TARMAC Aerosave and AerFin will teardown 10+ A320neo and 737 MAX aircraft by end of 2026 amid global parts shortages.
TARMAC Aerosave and aviation asset management specialist AerFin will dismantle more than 10 new-generation narrow-body aircraft, including the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, before the end of 2026. The move highlights a growing industry trend where young airframes are scrapped to harvest high-value components amid ongoing global supply chain constraints.
In a press release issued on September 11, 2026, TARMAC Aerosave announced the strengthening of its 10-year partnership with AerFin to meet unprecedented aftermarket demand. To process the aircraft, TARMAC Aerosave has established a dedicated operational line tailored to AerFin’s specific teardown requirements.
Dedicated teardown operations
The new operational structure focuses on specialized extraction needs to accelerate the return of serviceable material to the market. TARMAC Aerosave has assigned a dedicated team to handle cabin removal, landing gear extraction, and the management of priority and standard parts lists.
“With more than 10 aircraft projects again this year for AerFin, this collaboration confirms our position as a leading player in the dismantling and recycling market,” stated Christian Ceruti, Chief Commercial Officer of TARMAC Aerosave. “Our dedicated organisation allows us to respond with the responsiveness that this high-demand market requires today.”
AerFin Chief Operating Officer Simon Bayliss noted that the program reflects the value the partnership creates for customers as the demand for new-generation aircraft material continues to grow. The companies confirmed that additional joint dismantling projects are already in preparation for 2027.
The economics of scrapping young aircraft
The aviation industry is currently experiencing a severe shortage of spare parts and engines, driven by manufacturing delays and maintenance backlogs. Engine durability issues, particularly with powerplants like the Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan (GTF), have left many operators searching for replacement components to keep their fleets active.
According to reporting by AeroCorner, this environment has led to young aircraft being scrapped for parts. In 2026, two Airbus A320neo aircraft previously operated by Spirit Airlines were recycled at just three and four years of age. The components and engines of these young jets proved more valuable on the secondary market than the intact airframes.
AirPro News analysis
We are witnessing a structural shift in aircraft lifecycle management. Historically, commercial airframes operated for 20 to 25 years before facing the recycler’s torch. The current supply chain environment has inverted this economic model for certain fleets. When a three-year-old Airbus A320neo is worth more as a collection of spare parts than as a flying asset, it underscores the severity of the engine maintenance backlog and the premium operators place on immediate parts availability. This collaboration between TARMAC Aerosave and AerFin is a direct market response to these constraints, and we expect similar teardown programs to accelerate through 2027 as long as original equipment manufacturer (OEMs) bottlenecks persist.
Sources: TARMAC Aerosave and AerFin, AeroCorner, Aviation Week
Photo Credit: TARMAC Aerosave
MRO & Manufacturing
GKN Aerospace Breaks Ground on $16M New Hampshire Expansion
GKN Aerospace expands its North Charlestown, NH facility by 57,000 sq ft to boost aero-engine component production capacity.
On September 10, 2026, GKN Aerospace broke ground on a $16 million expansion of its manufacturing facility in North Charlestown, New Hampshire, a move designed to increase production capacity for critical aero-engine components.
According to a press release issued by the company, the project will add 57,000 square feet to the existing site, bringing the total footprint to 97,000 square feet. The expansion aims to meet rising customer demand by bringing additional manufacturing processes in-house, thereby reducing supply-chain lead times and improving overall efficiency.
Expanding in-house manufacturing capabilities
The North Charlestown expansion will introduce new on-site manufacturing processes, specifically turning operations, surface finishing, and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). By integrating these capabilities directly into the facility, GKN Aerospace intends to streamline its production pipeline for engine customers.
Tomas Lindsta, Senior Vice President of OE Product Solutions at GKN Aerospace, highlighted the operational benefits of the project.
“This expansion gives us the space to grow our team, increase production capacity and broaden our capabilities. By bringing more manufacturing processes in-house, we can further develop our employees’ skills, gain greater flexibility and respond more effectively to our customers’ evolving needs as our business continues to grow.”
Strategic investment and regional impact
The groundbreaking marks the execution phase of an investment strategy initially announced in early 2026. The $16 million commitment reflects a broader industry trend of aerospace suppliers consolidating critical manufacturing steps to mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities.
Joakim Andersson, President of Engines at GKN Aerospace, described the event as an important milestone for the company’s operations in the United States, noting that the investment will help grow capacity as demand from engine customers continues to rise.
New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte also commented on the development, emphasizing the state’s role in the aerospace and defense sector.
“New Hampshire is proud to be a leader in the aerospace and defense industry, and GKN Aerospace’s expansion here is a testament to what is possible when industry investment and workforce development come together,” Ayotte said.
AirPro News analysis
The decision by GKN Aerospace to bring turning operations, surface finishing, and NDT in-house at the North Charlestown facility aligns with a growing emphasis on vertical integration among Tier 1 aerospace suppliers. As the commercial aviation sector continues to face constrained supply chains, reducing reliance on external vendors for specialized finishing and testing processes offers a distinct competitive advantage. We view this $16 million investment as a targeted effort to insulate the company’s aero-engine component production from external bottlenecks while simultaneously positioning the New Hampshire site for long-term workforce expansion.
Sources: GKN Aerospace
Photo Credit: GKN Aerospace
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