MRO & Manufacturing
Gulfstream Opens New Texas Repair and Overhaul Center in Dallas Fort Worth
Gulfstream expands MRO services with a new Texas facility to improve support and reduce turnaround times for its global fleet.
In a strategic move to bolster its customer support infrastructure, Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced the opening of a new Texas Repair and Overhaul Center in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area. This development is a direct response to the needs of a rapidly expanding global fleet of Gulfstream aircraft. The establishment of this facility underscores a broader, long-term strategy aimed at enhancing in-house maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities. By bringing more of these critical services under its direct control, Gulfstream aims to significantly improve parts availability and reduce turnaround times for its clientele.
The DFW metroplex is a critical and bustling hub for business aviation, making it a logical choice for this significant investment. The new center not only strengthens Gulfstream’s footprint in a key market but also positions it to better serve a high concentration of its customers. This expansion is not an isolated event; it is a calculated piece of a larger puzzle. As the global business jet market experiences robust growth, driven by increased flight hours and an aging fleet requiring more consistent maintenance, the demand for efficient, high-quality MRO services has never been greater. Gulfstream’s investment signals its commitment to meeting this demand head-on, ensuring its support network evolves in lockstep with its growing fleet.
The new Texas Repair and Overhaul Center is a substantial operation, spanning 100,000 square feet (9,290 square meters). Representing an initial investment of over $21 million, the facility is well-capitalized to handle a wide array of component services. To ensure immediate operational readiness and minimize delays for aircraft operators, Gulfstream has also stocked the center with an additional $5 million in dedicated spare parts and inventory specifically for repairs. This proactive approach to inventory management is central to the company’s goal of expediting service and maximizing aircraft availability for its customers.
Initially, the center’s capabilities are focused on several key areas. It currently supports the repair and overhaul of wheels, brakes, and batteries, as well as complex hydraulic systems. Furthermore, the facility is equipped to handle structural and composite repairs and offers paint services, providing a comprehensive suite of solutions for common maintenance needs. This initial service offering addresses some of the most frequent MRO requirements, allowing Gulfstream to make an immediate impact on its service delivery in the region.
Looking ahead, Gulfstream has a clear roadmap for expanding the center’s capabilities. The company plans to integrate services for more advanced components, including avionics and landing gear. This phased expansion will transform the DFW facility into a more comprehensive, one-stop shop for Gulfstream operators. The development has also been a positive for the local economy, creating new jobs in the region, with active recruitment underway for a variety of specialized roles. This facility complements Gulfstream’s existing operations, including the Fort Worth Alliance Service Center and completions work at Dallas Love Field, creating a powerful support ecosystem in North Texas.
“By expanding our in-house repair and overhaul capabilities, we’re expediting turnaround times and increasing parts availability to best support our customers’ needs while maximizing safety, quality and efficiency. We will continue to invest in component repair, maintenance support and spare parts to enhance overall service for our customers, particularly as our fleet continues to grow.”, Mark Burns, President, Gulfstream.
The opening of the Texas facility is a key pillar in Gulfstream’s nationwide strategy to enhance both its manufacturing and customer support operations. This move is part of a larger wave of investments, including a $150 million expansion in Savannah, Georgia, to build a new service center and grow manufacturing capabilities, which is expected to create 1,600 new jobs. Similar expansions are underway in Mesa, Arizona; Appleton, Wisconsin; and St. Louis, Illinois, all designed to meet the surging demand for Gulfstream’s next-generation aircraft and fortify its global support network.
The Dallas-Fort Worth area is a highly competitive landscape for business aviation MRO services. The region’s strategic importance is highlighted by the presence and recent expansions of other major players. Companies like Jets MRO, TES, Aspire MRO, and MTU Maintenance have all invested in growing their DFW operations, signaling strong and sustained demand for aviation maintenance in North-America. Gulfstream’s new center allows it to compete more effectively in this dynamic market, offering factory-direct service that ensures the highest standards of quality and expertise.
The broader market trends provide a favorable backdrop for Gulfstream’s expansion. The global business jet MRO market was valued at $4.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $6.8 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 4.9%. This growth is fueled by a combination of factors, including an expanding global fleet, a 15% annual increase in business aviation operations since 2022, and a rise in average flight hours per aircraft. As a dominant force in the large-cabin, ultra-long-range segment, Gulfstream is perfectly positioned to capitalize on these trends, and its investment in MRO infrastructure is a critical step in securing its long-term market leadership. Gulfstream’s new Texas Repair and Overhaul Center is more than just a new building; it’s a clear statement of intent. The facility represents a significant, strategic investment in the company’s customer support capabilities, designed to meet the evolving needs of a growing global fleet. By bringing critical MRO services in-house and positioning them in a key geographic hub, Gulfstream is directly addressing the need for faster turnaround times, better parts availability, and the high-quality service its customers expect. This move, viewed within the context of the company’s broader national expansion, demonstrates a proactive approach to scaling its operations in line with market demand.
The decision to expand in the competitive Dallas-Fort Worth market underscores the region’s importance to the business aviation industry. As the market continues its upward trajectory, driven by increased flight activity and a growing fleet, the availability of reliable, efficient MRO services will be a key differentiator. Gulfstream’s investment not only enhances its competitive position but also reinforces its commitment to the entire aircraft lifecycle, from manufacturing to long-term support. This focus on service excellence is crucial for maintaining customer loyalty and sustaining growth in the years to come.
Question: What is the purpose of the new Gulfstream facility in Dallas-Fort Worth? Question: What services does the new center currently offer? Question: Are there plans to expand the services at the Texas facility? Sources: Gulfstream News
Gulfstream Fortifies Customer Support with New Texas MRO Facility
Facility Specifications and Service Expansion
Strategic Importance in a Competitive Market
Conclusion: Investing in the Future of Aviation Support
FAQ
Answer: The new Texas Repair and Overhaul Center is designed to expand Gulfstream’s in-house maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities. Its primary goals are to expedite service turnaround times, increase the availability of spare parts, and provide enhanced support for its growing global fleet of aircraft.
Answer: The 100,000-square-foot facility currently supports the repair and overhaul of wheels, brakes, batteries, and hydraulics. It also offers structural and composite repair services, as well as aircraft painting.
Answer: Yes, Gulfstream plans to expand the center’s capabilities in the future to include support for avionics, landing gear, and other complex components, making it a more comprehensive service hub.
Photo Credit: Gulfstream
MRO & Manufacturing
Ethiopian Airlines Completes Africa’s First A350-900 Full Strip and Paint
Ethiopian Airlines completes Africa’s first full strip-and-paint program on Airbus A350-900, enhancing in-house MRO capabilities and regional aviation services.
This article is based on an official press release from Ethiopian Airlines.
Ethiopian Airlines has announced a significant advancement in its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, successfully completing a full strip-and-paint program for two of its Airbus A350-900 Commercial-Aircraft. According to the airline’s official statement, this operation marks the first time such a complex maintenance procedure has been performed on the A350-900 model within Africa.
The project was executed at Ethiopian MRO’s facility in Addis Ababa, which has been expanding its capacity to handle modern, composite-heavy wide-body aircraft. By bringing this capability in-house, the Airlines aims to reduce reliance on foreign maintenance providers and assert its position as a leading aviation service provider on the continent.
The completion of this program represents a technical breakthrough for the region. Historically, African carriers operating the Airbus A350, a next-generation aircraft constructed primarily of advanced materials, have had to send their fleets to Europe or the Middle East for full exterior repainting. Ethiopian Airlines stated that this achievement allows them to offer these specialized services not only for their own fleet but potentially for third-party customers as well.
Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, highlighted the strategic importance of this development in the company’s press release:
“The successful execution of our full strip-and-paint project on two of our A350-900 aircraft… marks a significant step forward in Ethiopian’s in-house widebody advanced composite structure paint capabilities. This project is yet another milestone which reflects Ethiopian’s ongoing commitment to investing in world-class MRO capabilities… enhancing our self-reliance, and elevating our global standing.”
This capability builds upon the MRO division’s previous experience with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, another aircraft that utilizes extensive composite materials, further solidifying the facility’s expertise in next-generation airframe maintenance.
While the press release focuses on the strategic achievement, it is important to understand the technical complexity involved in stripping and painting modern aircraft like the Airbus A350. Unlike older aluminum aircraft, which can be stripped using aggressive chemical solvents or mechanical sanding, the A350’s fuselage is made largely of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP).
Standard paint removal methods pose a high risk to composites. Aggressive chemicals can damage the resin matrix that binds the carbon fibers, while improper sanding can cut into the fibers themselves or damage the delicate copper mesh embedded in the fuselage for lightning strike protection. Consequently, this process requires: By mastering these sensitive processes, Ethiopian MRO has demonstrated a level of technical maturity that rivals established MRO centers in Europe and Asia.
The ability to perform full strip-and-paint operations in Addis Ababa offers immediate economic benefits to the airline. In-house maintenance eliminates the costs associated with “ferry flights”, flying empty aircraft to foreign maintenance bases, and reduces the airline’s exposure to foreign currency fluctuations.
Furthermore, this capability enhances asset utilization. By integrating painting into scheduled heavy maintenance checks (such as C-checks), the airline can minimize the time an aircraft is out of service. This efficiency is critical for maintaining profitability in a competitive long-haul market.
From a regional perspective, this development places Ethiopian Airlines at a distinct advantage over competitors such as EgyptAir Maintenance & Engineering and South African Airways Technical. While other regional players possess significant MRO infrastructure, Ethiopian’s public confirmation of a completed A350-900 full strip-and-paint program signals a lead in specific next-generation composite capabilities.
Ethiopian Airlines Completes Africa’s First A350-900 Full Strip and Paint
A Milestone for African Aviation MRO
Technical Complexity of Composite Painting
AirPro News Analysis
Strategic and Economic Implications
Sources
Photo Credit: Ethiopian Airlines
MRO & Manufacturing
Asian Aerospace Starts P243M Expansion in Clark Freeport Zone
Asian Aerospace Corporation begins a P243.2M expansion in Clark Freeport Zone focusing on MRO consolidation and aviation safety services.
This article summarizes reporting by the Daily Tribune, Manila Standard, and PortCalls Asia.
Asian Aerospace Corporation (AAC), a prominent player in the Philippine aviation sector, has officially commenced a significant expansion of its operations within the Clark Freeport Zone. According to reporting by the Daily Tribune, the P243.2 million (approximately USD 4.2 million) project is currently “in full swing” following a lease agreement signed in mid-December 2025.
The expansion centers on the construction of a new 1,848-square-meter facility designed to consolidate the company’s MRO capabilities. As noted in coverage by PortCalls Asia, this development aligns with the Clark International Airport Corporation’s (CIAC) broader strategy to establish the region as a global civil aviation and logistics hub.
The new infrastructure will function as a multi-purpose “Aviation Safety Hub” and “Aircraft Factory Service Center.” According to details shared by the Manila Standard, the facility is designed to centralize maintenance operations for business jets and helicopters while providing specialized support for avionics and environmental control systems.
AAC has operated within Clark since 2002. This latest investment reinforces its long-standing presence in the zone. The company currently manages a fleet that includes Gulfstream and Pilatus aircraft, as well as MD Helicopters. The new facility will allow AAC to service these assets more efficiently while offering authorized service center capabilities for major global aircraft manufacturers.
Beyond commercial MRO services, the expansion supports vital national safety mandates. AAC CEO Peter Rodriguez emphasized the company’s role in maintaining navigation systems across the archipelago. According to the Daily Tribune, AAC is responsible for calibrating equipment at 87 airports throughout the Philippines.
“Asian Aerospace has been calibrating 87 airports across the Philippines for the past four administrations. Without calibration, aerodromes cannot operate safely.”
, Peter Rodriguez, CEO of Asian Aerospace Corp. (via Daily Tribune)
The project is expected to generate high-value employment opportunities in the region. SunStar reports that the facility will require a specialized workforce, including aviation engineers, safety personnel, and avionics technicians. This aligns with recent trends in the Clark Aviation Capital district, where investments have reportedly created hundreds of jobs in the logistics and aviation sectors. During the signing ceremony, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera highlighted the critical nature of the work AAC performs.
“Proper maintenance of aircraft components saves lives, and that is why Asian Aerospace is important not only to Clark, but to the Philippines and the world.”
, Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, President & CEO of CDC (via Manila Standard)
The expansion of Asian Aerospace Corporation highlights the growing maturity of the Clark Freeport Zone as a specialized aviation cluster. While the P243 million investment is modest compared to heavy infrastructure projects, its focus on technical MRO and calibration services fills a critical niche in the Philippine aviation ecosystem. By localizing high-level maintenance and calibration capabilities, the Philippines reduces reliance on foreign service providers for essential safety operations. This move also signals confidence in the CIAC’s “Aviation Capital” roadmap, suggesting that private sector players are seeing viable long-term returns in establishing permanent technical bases in Pampanga.
Sources: Daily Tribune, Manila Standard, PortCalls Asia, SunStar, Inquirer
Asian Aerospace Launches P243M Expansion in Clark Freeport Zone
Consolidating MRO and Factory Services
Critical Safety Infrastructure
Economic Impact and Workforce Development
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Clark Development Corporation
MRO & Manufacturing
B&H Worldwide Coordinates Bell 429 Helicopter Transport to Singapore MRO Hub
B&H Worldwide and Continental Carriers executed a complex Bell 429 helicopter logistics operation from India to Singapore for maintenance at Bell Textron’s facility.
This article is based on an official press release from B&H Worldwide.
B&H Worldwide, a global leader in aerospace logistics, has successfully coordinated the transport of a Bell 429 helicopters from India to Singapore. Announced on December 23, 2025, the operation involved a strategic partnership with Continental Carriers Pvt. Ltd. to return the aircraft to Bell Textron’s regional hub for scheduled MRO and inspection.
The movement highlights the specialized nature of rotary-wing logistics, which often requires disassembly and precise handling unlike standard fixed-wing aircraft transfers. According to the company’s announcement, the project underscores the growing connectivity between Indian aviation operators and Singapore’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector.
Moving a helicopter across international borders for maintenance involves significant technical planning. For this operation, the Bell 429 was dismantled into seven distinct cargo pieces to fit aboard a B747F freighter. The logistics process was split between two primary teams to ensure safety and compliance at both the origin and destination.
Continental Carriers Pvt. Ltd., a long-standing partner of B&H Worldwide, managed the ground operations in India. Their responsibilities included the physical teardown of the helicopter, pallet build-up, and coordination with the loadmaster to secure the high-value asset for air freight. The firm utilized its expertise in aerospace and defense logistics to navigate the regulatory landscape and prepare the cargo for export.
Upon arrival in Singapore, B&H Worldwide took control of the shipment. The company managed import customs clearance and arranged for specialized ground transport. To mitigate the risk of damage from vibration or shock, the team utilized an air-ride suspension transporter for the final leg of the journey to the Bell Textron facility at Seletar Aerospace Park.
Terry Ooi, Operations Manager for B&H Worldwide Singapore, emphasized the necessity of pre-planning in helicopter logistics:
“Helicopter logistics demand a different level of planning and coordination, particularly at destination. By identifying site limitations and handling requirements early, we can eliminate unnecessary risk.”
Terry Ooi, Operations Manager, B&H Worldwide Singapore
The Singapore team conducted pre-arrival site surveys to verify vehicle height limitations and ensure that appropriate tie-down expertise was available for safe unloading at the MRO facility.
The destination for the Bell 429 was Bell Textron’s facility at Seletar Aerospace Park, a specialized industrial zone designed to cluster aerospace companies. This facility serves as a critical node for the Asia-Pacific region, offering maintenance, customization, and re-assembly services.
The operation reflects a broader industry trend where regional operators rely on centralized hubs like Singapore for heavy maintenance that cannot be performed locally. The Bell 429, a popular light twin-engine helicopter used for corporate transport and emergency services across Asia, requires consistent high-level support, driving demand for these complex logistics solutions.
This operation illustrates that modern aerospace logistics has evolved beyond simple transportation into a discipline of risk management and engineering. The requirement to dismantle an aircraft into seven pieces and reassemble it in a different country demonstrates the tight integration required between logistics providers and MRO facilities.
Furthermore, the collaboration between a UK-headquartered logistics provider (B&H), an Indian freight forwarder (Continental Carriers), and a Singaporean service center (Bell Textron) highlights the interdependence of the Asian aerospace supply chain. As the fleet of rotary-wing aircraft grows in the region, we expect to see an increase in demand for “white-glove” logistics services that can handle sensitive air-ride requirements and complex customs procedures.
B&H Worldwide and Continental Carriers Execute Complex Bell 429 Logistics Operation
Operational Breakdown: From India to Singapore
Origin Logistics in India
Destination Logistics in Singapore
Strategic Context: Singapore as a Regional MRO Hub
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: B&H Worldwide
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