Daher Expands U.S. Service Network for TBM and Kodiak Aircraft

Daher Bolsters U.S. Support Network for TBM and Kodiak Aircraft

In a strategic move to enhance customer support across the United States, Daher has expanded its service center network for the TBM and Kodiak aircraft families. The addition of three specialized maintenance facilities aims to provide geographically convenient and factory-approved services to a growing fleet of operators. This expansion underscores a commitment to ensuring that owners and operators have reliable access to maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, which is a critical factor in maintaining aircraft value, safety, and operational readiness.

The timing of this announcement, coinciding with the NBAA Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), highlights the significance of the business and general aviation sectors to Daher’s strategy. As the fleets of the high-performance TBM turboprops and the rugged Kodiak utility Commercial-Aircraft continue to increase, the infrastructure to support them must evolve in tandem. This proactive expansion addresses the practical needs of aircraft owners by reducing transit times for maintenance and providing localized expertise.

Strengthening Coverage in Key Regions

The selection of the new service centers reflects a deliberate effort to fill geographical gaps and boost capacity in high-demand areas. By partnering with established and reputable MRO providers, Daher is reinforcing its presence in the Midwest, the Southeast, and for the first time, Alaska. Each new facility brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in aircraft maintenance, ensuring that the high standards expected by TBM and Kodiak operators are met.

In the Southeast, Victory Lane Aviation in North Carolina joins the network to service the TBM aircraft line. Operating from two locations, Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (KJQF) and Charlotte Douglas International Airports (KCLT), the facility is well-positioned to support a significant portion of the TBM fleet. Its coverage area extends across North and South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and Georgia. The decision to add Victory Lane Aviation was influenced by its demonstrated responsiveness, particularly in critical Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations, which is a vital capability for operators who cannot afford extended downtime.

For the Midwest, Synergy Flight Center, located at Central Illinois Regional Airport (KBMI), now provides authorized TBM services. Operating under the umbrella of Muncie Aviation, one of Daher’s longest-standing service partners, this addition significantly increases the maintenance capacity for a broad region that includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Kentucky. This Partnerships model allows Daher to leverage the established reputation and infrastructure of Muncie Aviation while extending its reach to better serve TBM owners in the heart of the country.

“Expanding our customer support Network and reinforcing its capacity are strategic priorities as TBM and Kodiak fleets continue to grow. By partnering with experienced service providers, we’re strengthening our ability to support U.S. operators where and when they need it.”, Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft.

Venturing into the Last Frontier: Alaska

A notable aspect of this expansion is the inclusion of Silver Sky Aviation in Wasilla, Alaska, as a dedicated Kodiak service center. This marks Daher’s first authorized service center in the state, a crucial development given the Kodiak’s popularity in rugged and remote environments like Alaska. The Kodiak’s Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities make it an ideal aircraft for the region’s unique operational challenges, and having a local service center is a game-changer for operators who previously had to travel significant distances for factory-approved maintenance.

Located at Wasilla Airport (PAWS), Silver Sky Aviation is equipped to handle the full spectrum of maintenance needs for both the Kodiak 100 and the newer Kodiak 900 models. Their capabilities range from routine airframe inspections to heavy structural repairs and complex modifications. The facility already serves a diverse client base, including commercial operators and government agencies that rely on the Kodiak for missions such as wildlife surveys and environmental monitoring. At the time of the announcement, the center was already performing an annual inspection on the first Kodiak 900 to be based in Alaska, demonstrating its immediate integration into the support ecosystem.

This move into Alaska is not just about convenience; it’s a strategic acknowledgment of the Kodiak’s role as a workhorse in demanding environments. By establishing a local support base, Daher is fostering greater confidence among current and prospective customers in the region. It ensures that these essential aircraft can be maintained to factory standards with minimal disruption to their vital operations, whether for commercial, private, or governmental use.

Conclusion: A Global Strategy with Local Focus

Daher’s expansion of its U.S. service network is a clear indication of a customer-centric strategy focused on long-term support and fleet readiness. By adding three strategically located service centers, the company is not only enhancing its support infrastructure but also strengthening its relationships with operators across the country. The additions of Silver Sky Aviation, Victory Lane Aviation, and Synergy Flight Center provide tangible benefits to TBM and Kodiak owners by offering more convenient and accessible factory-authorized maintenance options.

This U.S. expansion is part of a broader global vision. The company also recently announced the establishment of a new operation in São Paulo, Latin-America, to bolster its presence in Latin America. Together, these moves illustrate a period of significant growth and a proactive approach to building a robust, worldwide support network. As the global fleet of Daher aircraft continues to expand, this focus on localized, expert support will be fundamental to maintaining customer satisfaction and the sterling reputation of the TBM and Kodiak brands.

FAQ

Question: Which new service centers has Daher added to its network?
Answer: Daher has added three U.S.-based service centers: Silver Sky Aviation in Wasilla, Alaska; Victory Lane Aviation in North Carolina; and Synergy Flight Center in Bloomington, Illinois.

Question: What aircraft will these new centers service?
Answer: Silver Sky Aviation will service the Kodiak aircraft line. Victory Lane Aviation and Synergy Flight Center will both service the TBM aircraft line.

Question: Why is the addition of a service center in Alaska significant?
Answer: The addition of Silver Sky Aviation in Alaska is significant because it is the first Daher-authorized service center in the state. This provides crucial local support for the many Kodiak aircraft operating in Alaska’s remote and demanding environments.

Sources

• Daher Press Release