MRO & Manufacturing
Dassault Aviation Opens Major MRO Facility in Melbourne Florida
Dassault Aviation launches a $115M MRO facility in Melbourne, Florida, enhancing Falcon jet support and creating 400 jobs.
The grand opening of Dassault Falcon Jet’s new MRO facility at Melbourne Orlando International Airport marks a significant milestone for both Dassault Aviation and the broader aerospace industry. As the largest investment Dassault has ever made in the United States, the Melbourne facility reflects both the company’s commitment to its North and South American customers and the growing demand for advanced business jet services. This development is not just a business expansion; it is a statement about the future of aviation maintenance and the strategic role of Florida’s “Space Coast” in the global aerospace landscape.
With a $115 million investment and a sprawling 250,000-square-foot complex, the facility is designed to provide comprehensive support for Dassault’s Falcon fleet, including the latest models such as the Falcon 6X and the forthcoming Falcon 10X. The opening also highlights the economic and technological ripple effects such projects can have, from job creation to bolstering the region’s reputation as a hub for aerospace innovation. As the aviation sector continues to evolve, the Melbourne facility stands as a case study in how global manufacturers are adapting to meet new challenges and opportunities.
The decision to locate this facility in Melbourne, Florida, underscores the region’s strengths: a skilled workforce, a favorable business climate, and strategic proximity to key educational institutions. This article explores the significance of this expansion, the capabilities of the new facility, and its broader implications for the aviation industry and the local economy.
The Melbourne MRO facility is a testament to Dassault Aviation’s focus on advanced engineering and customer service. Spanning 250,000 square feet, it is one of the largest maintenance centers in the region. The facility can accommodate up to 14 Falcon aircraft at once, supporting everything from routine inspections to major overhauls and modifications. This marks a significant increase in Dassault’s service capacity in the Americas, ensuring that Falcon operators have ready access to factory-level expertise and support.
A key component of the facility is its 54,000-square-foot paint shop, which enables high-quality finishing work to be performed in-house. The site also includes specialized workshops, customer offices, and dedicated lounges, creating a comprehensive environment for both technical staff and clients. The capacity to support all current Falcon models, including the new Falcon 6X and the anticipated Falcon 10X, ensures that the facility will remain relevant as Dassault’s product line evolves.
Equipped for heavy maintenance, the Melbourne center offers a broad range of services, from line maintenance and C-checks to engineering and complex modifications. This versatility allows the facility to serve as a one-stop shop for Falcon operators, minimizing downtime and maximizing aircraft availability.
“This new factory service center will considerably grow our presence in the U.S., positioning us to keep up with demand for state-of-the-art maintenance services as the Falcon fleet grows and as new models such as the Falcon 10X and the extra widebody Falcon 6X enter service.”, Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO, Dassault Aviation
The economic implications of the Melbourne facility are substantial. Dassault’s $115 million investment represents the largest the company has made in the United States to date. The project is expected to create approximately 400 direct jobs and 80 indirect jobs, providing high-quality employment opportunities in the region. By July 2025, more than 100 technical staff had already been recruited, indicating strong early momentum in workforce development.
Florida’s status as a leader in aerospace and advanced manufacturing was a decisive factor in Dassault’s site selection. The state is home to a large pool of aviation and aerospace professionals, estimated at around 35,000, supported by educational institutions like Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the Florida Institute of Technology. This talent pipeline ensures that the facility will have access to the skilled labor required for sophisticated maintenance and engineering work. State and local leaders have emphasized the project’s alignment with Florida’s economic development goals. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the facility as a testament to the state’s pro-business environment and commitment to innovation, while regional business organizations pointed to the area’s favorable political and tax climate as key advantages.
“Florida is proud to welcome Dassault Aviation’s new facility in Melbourne, which strengthens our state’s role as a global leader in aerospace and advanced manufacturing.”, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis
The launch of the Melbourne facility is part of a broader global strategy by Dassault Aviation to expand its MRO network. In recent years, the company has opened new service centers in São Paulo, Dubai, and Kuala Lumpur, reflecting the increasing demand for high-quality business jet maintenance worldwide. This expansion is closely tied to the growth of the Falcon fleet, which is being driven by the introduction of new models and a rising number of operators in key markets.
The Falcon 6X and the upcoming Falcon 10X are central to Dassault’s future plans. The 6X, already in service, offers advanced capabilities in terms of range, comfort, and efficiency. The 10X, expected to enter service in 2027, will further extend the company’s reach into the ultra-long-range business jet segment. By positioning its newest and most capable MRO facility in the United States, Dassault is ensuring that its North American and South American customers have seamless access to support for these advanced aircraft.
Strategically, the choice of Melbourne leverages the region’s aerospace ecosystem. The “Space Coast” is known for its concentration of high-tech companies and research institutions, making it an attractive location for aerospace investment. The facility’s proximity to major educational institutions also supports ongoing workforce development and innovation.
Beyond the technical and economic aspects, the opening of the Melbourne facility has been welcomed by a range of stakeholders. Local business councils, such as the French American Business Council of Orlando (FABCO), have highlighted the region’s pro-business environment as a key draw for international investment. The collaboration between Dassault, state officials, and local organizations underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in supporting large-scale projects.
Community leaders have also pointed to the broader benefits of the facility, including its role in strengthening the local supply chain and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in the region. The influx of skilled jobs and the associated economic activity are expected to have a positive multiplier effect, benefiting both the aviation sector and the broader community.
The opening of the Melbourne MRO facility is thus more than a corporate milestone; it is a catalyst for regional growth and a model for how global companies can integrate into local economies while advancing their strategic objectives.
“Central Florida’s political and tax environment is pro-business, which explains why we chose Melbourne for this project.”, Isabelle Tran, President, French American Business Council of Orlando (FABCO)
The inauguration of Dassault Aviation’s Melbourne facility marks a pivotal development in the company’s global MRO strategy and highlights the ongoing transformation of the aerospace industry. By investing in advanced infrastructure, expanding service capacity, and leveraging the strengths of the Florida workforce, Dassault is positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of its customers and to support the next generation of business jets. Looking ahead, the Melbourne facility is likely to serve as a benchmark for future investments in aviation maintenance and support. Its success will be measured not only by its technical achievements but also by its contributions to the local economy, the development of skilled talent, and the continued growth of the Falcon fleet in the Americas. As the aviation industry adapts to new challenges and opportunities, facilities like Melbourne will play a crucial role in shaping its future trajectory.
What types of aircraft will the Melbourne facility support? How many jobs will the new facility create? Why did Dassault Aviation choose Melbourne, Florida, for this facility? What is the size of the new MRO facility? When did the facility become operational? Sources: Dassault Aviation, Florida Today
Dassault Aviation’s New Melbourne Facility: A Strategic Expansion in Aerospace Maintenance
Facility Features and Capabilities
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure and Capacity
Economic and Workforce Impact
Industry Context and Strategic Implications
Global Expansion and Market Trends
Stakeholder Perspectives and Community Impact
Conclusion
FAQ
The facility will provide maintenance and overhaul services for all current Falcon models, including the Falcon 6X and the soon-to-be-launched Falcon 10X.
The project is expected to create approximately 400 direct jobs and 80 indirect jobs in the region.
Melbourne was chosen for its skilled workforce, favorable business climate, and proximity to leading educational institutions and the broader aerospace ecosystem.
The Melbourne facility spans 250,000 square feet, making it one of the largest of its kind in the region.
The facility has been operational since July 7, 2025, following a groundbreaking in November 2023 and construction throughout 2024.
Photo Credit: Florida Today
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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