MRO & Manufacturing
GE Aerospace Improves Supply Chain and Boosts Airbus Engine Deliveries
GE Aerospace’s lean model improves supply chain efficiency, increasing LEAP engine production and supporting Airbus deliveries in 2025.
The global aviation industry has been navigating turbulent skies in recent years, largely due to persistent supply chain disruptions that began in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. These constraints have created significant headwinds for aircraft manufacturers and airlines alike, leading to production delays and a scarcity of spare parts. For European aerospace giant Airbus, a primary bottleneck has been the timely delivery of jet engines, a critical component for its popular A320neo family of aircraft. However, recent developments from GE Aerospace, a key engine supplier, signal a potential shift in this challenging environment. The company’s focused efforts to untangle its Supply-Chain are beginning to yield tangible results, offering a glimmer of hope for a more stable production landscape.
At the heart of this issue is CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, which produces the LEAP engine. These engines are a popular option for the Airbus A320neo and the exclusive powerplant for the Boeing 737 MAX. Production difficulties within the CFM partnership have had a cascading effect, impacting Airbus’s ability to meet its delivery targets and, consequently, the expansion plans of Airlines around the world. The financial repercussions of these delays are substantial, affecting the entire aviation ecosystem. Now, with GE Aerospace implementing strategic initiatives to overcome these hurdles, the industry is watching closely to see if this marks a turning point in the post-pandemic recovery.
In response to the ongoing supply chain pressures, GE Aerospace has deployed a proprietary lean operating model known as “FLIGHT DECK.” This internal strategy is designed to drive sustainable performance and foster measurable improvements by embedding lean principles and tools throughout the company’s operations. The initiative focuses on creating a more resilient and efficient supply chain by working closely with supplier partners to identify and eliminate bottlenecks. The early results of this approach are promising, demonstrating that a systematic and collaborative effort can indeed make a significant impact on complex Manufacturing challenges.
The “FLIGHT DECK” model has already produced concrete results. For instance, at GE’s facility in Pune, India, the lead time for certain LEAP engine components has been reduced by 50%. This is a testament to the effectiveness of the lean principles being applied. Furthermore, the company has reported a substantial increase in materials received from key suppliers, with a 35% rise compared to the previous year. This improvement in the flow of materials is a critical step in stabilizing production and ensuring a more predictable output of finished engines.
Perhaps one of the most significant indicators of progress is the improved reliability of GE’s suppliers. According to the company, critical suppliers are now delivering to their commitments 95% of the time, a rate that has doubled from a year ago. This increased predictability is a cornerstone of a healthy supply chain and is essential for ramping up production to meet the high demand from customers like Airbus. As GE Aerospace continues to refine its “FLIGHT DECK” model, these operational gains are expected to become more widespread, further strengthening the company’s ability to navigate the complexities of the global supply chain.
“We knew that we were going to have a slower start than any of us would have wanted in 2025, but… in terms of LEAP deliveries, growing in the 15-20% range continues to be what we believe we will do in 2025. It’s all about the supply chain dynamics… with the supply base, we’re really encouraged by the sequential improvement that we’ve seen in our deliveries from our critical suppliers.”, Larry Culp, GE Aerospace CEO (May 2025)
The operational improvements driven by GE Aerospace’s strategic initiatives are having a direct and positive impact on its ability to deliver engines to Airbus. GE Aerospace CEO Larry Culp recently announced that the company made significant progress in catching up on delayed jet engine deliveries to Airbus during the third quarter of 2025. This development is a welcome sign for Airbus, which has been grappling with engine shortages as it seeks to ramp up production of its narrowbody aircraft.
The numbers support this optimistic outlook. GE Aerospace reported a 40% year-over-year increase in the production of its LEAP engines in the third quarter of 2025. Looking at the full year, the company now anticipates a growth of over 20% in LEAP engine deliveries, an upward revision from the previously projected 15-20% range. This acceleration in production is a clear indication that the company’s supply chain fixes are taking hold and translating into a higher output of finished products.
This positive momentum is also reflected in GE Aerospace’s strong financial performance. The company reported a 26% increase in adjusted revenue to $11.3 billion for the third quarter of 2025. Adjusted earnings per share saw a 44% rise to $1.66, and free cash flow grew by 30% to $2.4 billion. Buoyed by these strong year-to-date results, GE Aerospace has raised its full-year financial guidance, signaling confidence in its ability to sustain this performance through the end of the year and beyond. The progress made by GE Aerospace in resolving its supply chain issues offers a beacon of hope for the entire aviation industry. By implementing its “FLIGHT DECK” operating model and fostering closer collaboration with its suppliers, the company has demonstrated a clear path toward stabilizing its production and catching up on crucial engine deliveries to Airbus. This not only benefits the two aerospace giants but also has a positive ripple effect on airlines and the traveling public, who stand to gain from a more predictable and robust aircraft supply chain.
Looking ahead, the lessons learned from this period of disruption will likely shape the future of aerospace manufacturing. The emphasis on lean principles, supplier collaboration, and operational resilience will become even more critical as the industry continues to navigate a complex and ever-changing global landscape. While challenges may still lie ahead, the proactive and strategic approach taken by GE Aerospace serves as a powerful example of how to turn adversity into an opportunity for innovation and growth.
Question: What is the “FLIGHT DECK” initiative? Question: How have GE’s supply chain improvements affected Airbus? Question: What are the key performance indicators of GE’s supply chain recovery?
GE Aerospace Turns the Tide on Supply Chain Woes, Boosting Airbus Deliveries
Strategic Initiatives and Operational Overhauls
The Ripple Effect: Improved Deliveries and Financial Performance
Conclusion: A Path to Stability and Future Growth
FAQ
Answer: “FLIGHT DECK” is GE Aerospace’s proprietary lean operating model designed to create sustainable performance and measurable improvements by integrating lean principles and tools across the company.
Answer: The improvements have allowed GE Aerospace to make progress in catching up on delayed jet engine deliveries to Airbus, particularly in the third quarter of 2025.
Answer: Key indicators include a 40% year-over-year increase in LEAP engine production in Q3 2025, a 35% increase in materials received from key suppliers, and a 95% on-time delivery rate from critical suppliers.
Sources
Photo Credit: Reuters
MRO & Manufacturing
Airinmar Extends Aircraft Warranty Services Contract with Air Methods
Airinmar signs a multi-year extension with Air Methods to manage aircraft warranty and value engineering services for its 450+ fleet.
This article is based on an official press release from Airinmar.
Airinmar, a subsidiary of AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), has officially signed a multi-year extension to provide aircraft warranty management and value engineering services to Air Methods, one of the largest civilian helicopters operators in the world. According to the company’s announcement, this agreement prolongs a partnership that originally began in August 2020, reinforcing a strategic focus on cost efficiency and supply chain optimization.
The extended contract covers a massive fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft used primarily for emergency air medical transport. Under the terms of the agreement, Airinmar will continue to manage warranty entitlements, identifying, claiming, and recovering costs from manufacturers, while also providing value engineering support to ensure maintenance expenses remain aligned with fair market values.
The renewal highlights the increasing importance of outsourced technical management in the aviation sector. Airinmar’s role involves a comprehensive review of component repairs and warranty opportunities. By leveraging historical data and engineering expertise, the company aims to reduce the total cost of ownership for Air Methods’ diverse fleet.
According to the press release, the services provided include:
Jay Mahen, Senior Vice President of Operations at Air Methods, emphasized the importance of this partnership in maintaining operational readiness for their critical missions.
“We will continue to leverage Airinmar’s comprehensive engineering knowledge and expertise to help optimize our supply chain to provide safe and reliable lifesaving emergency air medical care.”
Jay Mahen, SVP of Operations, Air Methods
While the press release focuses on the continuation of services, the timing of this extension is significant when viewed against the broader financial backdrop of Air Methods. As reported in public financial disclosures, Air Methods successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late December 2023, shedding approximately $1.7 billion in debt. The company is currently navigating a “transformation journey” under new ownership, with a sharp focus on operational efficiency and profitability.
In our view, extending a contract with a specialist like Airinmar aligns perfectly with this post-restructuring strategy. For large fleet operators, the administrative burden of tracking warranties across thousands of components can be overwhelming. Outsourcing this function allows Air Methods to recover funds that might otherwise be lost to administrative oversight, directly improving the bottom line without compromising safety. Furthermore, the aviation maintenance (MRO) sector is currently facing inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints. By utilizing “value engineering,” operators can scrutinize third-party vendor quotes more effectively, ensuring they are not paying inflated prices for parts or labor, a critical capability for maintaining an aging fleet of 450 aircraft.
Airinmar has operated for over 40 years and is a global leader in component repair cycle management. Based in Berkshire, England, it was acquired by AAR CORP., a major provider of aviation services to commercial and government customers worldwide. AAR CORP. recently reported record sales of $2.8 billion for Fiscal Year 2025, driven largely by demand for aftermarket solutions.
Air Methods is the leading air medical service provider in the United States. Operating from approximately 275 bases across 47 states, the company delivers lifesaving care to more than 100,000 people annually, functioning essentially as a “flying ICU.”
Value engineering in this context refers to the analysis of repair costs and methods to improve value. It involves verifying that repair quotes align with market rates, determining whether a component should be repaired or replaced based on reliability and cost, and ensuring that repair shops do not perform unnecessary work.
According to the press release and company data, Air Methods operates a fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.
The original agreement was signed in August 2020. This recent announcement marks a multi-year extension of that initial contract.
Airinmar Secures Multi-Year Service Extension with Air Methods
Scope of Services and Operational Impact
Warranty Management and Value Engineering
Strategic Context: Efficiency in a Post-Restructuring Era
AirPro News Analysis
About the Companies
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Value Engineering” in aviation maintenance?
How large is the Air Methods fleet?
When did the partnership between Airinmar and Air Methods begin?
Sources
Photo Credit: AAR Corp.
MRO & Manufacturing
Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Expand Engineering Capabilities
Brookhouse Aerospace acquires Parker Precision to integrate CNC turning, milling, and grinding capabilities, enhancing supply chain services in the UK.
This article is based on an official press release from Brookhouse Aerospace.
Brookhouse Aerospace, a leading independent manufacturer of composite and metallic aero-structures based in Darwen, Lancashire, has officially announced the acquisition of Parker Precision. The move represents a significant step in Brookhouse’s strategy to vertically integrate its supply-chain and expand its internal engineering capabilities.
According to the company’s press release, the acquisition of the Wolverhampton-based precision engineering firm will allow Brookhouse to offer a more comprehensive “build-to-print” service to the aerospace and defence sectors. Parker Precision, known for its expertise in CNC turning and milling, will continue to operate from its existing facility in Bilston, retaining its 35-strong workforce.
The acquisition is described by Brookhouse leadership as a “strategic fit” designed to bring critical precision engineering processes in-house. By integrating Parker Precision’s capabilities, specifically Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, Brookhouse aims to reduce reliance on external suppliers for these specific processes and offer a complete supply chain solution.
Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace, emphasized the value this addition brings to the group’s service portfolio:
“We are delighted to welcome Parker Precision into the Brookhouse Aerospace group. This acquisition is an excellent strategic fit, enhancing our capabilities with Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, building on our strategy of providing a complete supply chain solution.”
, Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace
Rossiter further noted that the acquisition not only secures a skilled workforce but also opens access to new customer bases while strengthening the value proposition for existing clients.
Parker Precision, founded in 1952, has a long history of manufacturing, evolving from small tools for the lock industry to high-precision aerospace components. Under the new ownership structure, the company will function as a subsidiary of the Brookhouse Aerospace group. Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision, expressed optimism about the stability the deal provides: “The successful completion of this acquisition provides future certainty for our team. As part of Brookhouse, we look forward to the opportunity to further enhance our capabilities and capacity, to deliver customer requirements, advance expertise in key markets and grow the business.”
, Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision
The deal connects two major UK manufacturing hubs: Brookhouse’s stronghold in the North West Aerospace Alliance region and Parker’s base in the Midlands. This regional synergy is expected to support the group’s mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing the aerospace and defence industries.
This acquisition follows a period of significant investment for Brookhouse Aerospace. The company recently opened a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire, known as Balle Mill. According to verified industry reports, the company has invested heavily in new machinery to increase capacity.
Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace, framed the acquisition as a logical progression following these internal investments:
“Following our recent investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire and the installation of significant new machining capabilities, the acquisition of Parker Precision is just the next step in our mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing aerospace and defence industries.”
, Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace
Worth also indicated that the company remains in growth mode, stating that they “continue to evaluate, and are actively seeking, suitable additional opportunities.”
The acquisition of Parker Precision by Brookhouse Aerospace highlights a broader trend of consolidation within the aerospace supply chain. As Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) increasingly demand “one-stop-shop” solutions to reduce logistical complexity and risk, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers are under pressure to expand their internal capabilities.
By acquiring a specialist like Parker Precision, Brookhouse effectively secures its upstream supply chain for machined components. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control and potentially faster turnaround times, critical factors in the competitive aerospace and defence markets. Furthermore, retaining the Parker Precision brand and workforce suggests a strategy of stability rather than aggressive restructuring, preserving the specialized skills that make the target company valuable in the first place. Parker Precision specializes in precision CNC engineering, including CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding. They serve sectors such as Aerospace, Oil & Gas, Defence, Electronics, and Medical.
No. According to the announcement, Parker Precision will continue to operate from its current base in Bilston, Wolverhampton, as part of the Brookhouse Aerospace group.
Parker Precision employs 35 people, all of whom are being retained following the acquisition.
Brookhouse Aerospace is owned by Nord Aerospace Holdings (specifically Nord Aerospace Bidco Limited).
Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Strengthen Supply Chain Capabilities
Strategic Expansion and Vertical Integration
Operational Continuity and Regional Growth
Investment in Manufacturing Excellence
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Parker Precision specialize in?
Will Parker Precision move its operations?
How many employees does Parker Precision have?
Who owns Brookhouse Aerospace?
Sources
Photo Credit: Brookhouse Aerospace
MRO & Manufacturing
GA Telesis Expands Asia-Pacific Reach with South Korean Approval
GA Telesis Engine Services secures South Korean MOLIT certification to offer engine overhaul services and signs new deal with MIAT Mongolian Airlines.
This article is based on an official press release from GA Telesis.
GA Telesis Engine Services (GATES), the Helsinki-based engine maintenance subsidiary of GA Telesis, has announced a major expansion of its operational capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. According to an official company press release, GATES has received Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) certification from South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT). This certification authorizes the facility to perform full overhaul services on specific engine models for South Korean airlines.
In a simultaneous development, the company confirmed a new engine maintenance agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines. These announcements mark a strategic push by GATES to establish itself as a primary independent alternative to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) facilities in a region heavily reliant on narrowbody aircraft.
The newly acquired MOLIT approval is a critical regulatory milestone for GATES. Under South Korea’s Aviation Safety Act, foreign repair stations must undergo a rigorous audit of their quality control systems and technical procedures before they are permitted to release South Korean-registered aircraft to service. By securing this certification, GATES can now bid directly for heavy maintenance contracts with South Korean carriers without requiring third-party approvals.
According to the press release, the MOLIT approval covers full overhaul authority for three major engine types:
This scope is particularly significant given the composition of the South Korean commercial fleet. Market data indicates that the CFM56-7B is the primary engine for the country’s low-cost carriers (LCCs), including Jeju Air, T’way Air, and Jin Air, which operate substantial fleets of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Additionally, the CF6-80C2 remains in service with major carriers like Asiana Airlines and Korean Air for their widebody operations.
“This approval allows us to bring our world-class engine maintenance solutions directly to South Korean airlines, offering them a competitive alternative for their fleet requirements.”
, Statement from GA Telesis Press Release
Alongside the regulatory news, GATES announced a definitive agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines for the maintenance of its CFM56-7B engines. MIAT, the national flag carrier of Mongolia, operates a fleet centered around the Boeing 737-800. This contract underscores the technical capabilities of the Helsinki facility and provides MIAT with a maintenance partner located strategically between its Asian and European route networks.
The agreement validates GATES’ strategy of targeting operators who require flexible, cost-effective maintenance solutions outside of the traditional OEM network. By utilizing the Helsinki facility, MIAT gains access to a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) environment while maintaining logistical efficiency for its fleet. The Rise of Independent MROs in Asia
The entry of GATES into the South Korean market represents a shift in the regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) landscape. Historically, South Korean airlines have relied heavily on OEM-affiliated shops, such as the Korean Air Tech Center, or major regional players like ST Engineering. These relationships often come with rigid pricing structures and capacity constraints.
As an independent provider, GATES is positioned to compete on turnaround time (TAT) and workscope flexibility. For LCCs operating on tight margins, the ability to perform targeted repairs, rather than mandatory full overhauls, can result in significant cost savings. The “hospital shop” concept, which focuses on surgical repairs to return engines to service quickly, is likely to appeal to carriers like T’way Air and Jeju Air as their fleets age and maintenance events become more frequent.
Furthermore, the timing of the MOLIT approval coincides with a high demand for CFM56 shop visits globally. As supply chain issues continue to plague the new engine market (LEAP and GTF), airlines are holding onto older aircraft longer, increasing the need for reliable maintenance capacity for legacy engines like the CFM56 and CF6.
The GATES facility is located at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. According to company data, the site spans 180,000 square feet and features an integrated test cell capable of handling engines with up to 100,000 lbs of thrust. The facility has an annual capacity of approximately 200 engines.
With the addition of the South Korean MOLIT certification, GATES now holds approvals from major global regulators, including:
This broad regulatory portfolio allows the company to serve a diverse customer base across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, reinforcing its status as a premier independent engine maintenance provider.
GA Telesis Engine Services Secures South Korean Regulatory Approval, Expands APAC Footprint
Breaking Barriers in the South Korean Market
Authorized Engine Types
Strategic Partnership with MIAT Mongolian Airlines
AirPro News Analysis
Facility Capabilities and Global Reach
Sources
Photo Credit: GA Telesis
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