MRO & Manufacturing
Caerdav Doubles Aircraft Maintenance Capacity in UK Expansion
Caerdav expands St Athan facility, doubling MRO capacity focused on Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft amid rising global aviation demand.
In the world of aviation, the work on the ground is just as critical as the performance in the air. The Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector is the backbone of the industry, ensuring the global fleet remains safe, airworthy, and efficient. Within this demanding landscape, South Wales-based Caerdav has just made a significant strategic move, completing a major expansion project that effectively doubles its aircraft maintenance capacity. This development isn’t just a win for the company; it’s a calculated response to a global surge in demand for MRO services, positioning Caerdav as a more formidable player in the European market.
The timing of this expansion is pivotal. The aviation industry is experiencing a robust recovery, leading to an expanding global aircraft fleet and an increasing number of older aircraft requiring more intensive maintenance schedules. Airlines and leasing companies are in constant need of reliable partners to handle everything from routine checks to complex overhauls. Caerdav’s decision to increase its capabilities, particularly for the workhorse narrowbody jets, aligns perfectly with these powerful market currents. By investing in infrastructure and enhancing its service offerings, the company is preparing not just for today’s demand, but for the projected growth of the coming decade.
This move solidifies the St. Athan facility’s role as a key hub in the UK’s aviation support network. For South Wales, it signals economic growth, bringing more skilled jobs and opportunities to the region. As we break down the specifics of this expansion and the market context it fits into, it becomes clear that this is more than just adding another service line; it’s about building a more resilient, efficient, and vertically integrated operation ready to meet the future of aviation head-on.
The core of Caerdav’s project is the opening of a fourth maintenance line at its “Twin Peaks” hangar in St. Athan. This addition is the culmination of an 18-month strategy that has successfully doubled the company’s operational capacity. Where the facility could previously service two aircraft, it can now handle four simultaneously. This leap in throughput is crucial for attracting and retaining contracts with major airlines and aircraft leasing companies, who prioritize speed and availability in their MRO partners.
The expansion is specifically tailored to the most common aircraft in the skies: the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families. These narrowbody jets are the backbone of short and medium-haul travel globally, and their high utilization rates mean they require frequent and thorough maintenance. By focusing its enhanced capacity on these aircraft types, Caerdav is directly targeting the largest and most consistent segment of the MRO market. This specialization allows for greater expertise, more efficient workflows, and a stronger competitive edge.
However, the project involved far more than just clearing floor space. It was a comprehensive remodelling of the hangar to improve overall efficiency and broaden the scope of work that can be completed on-site. This strategic enhancement of the facility’s infrastructure is what truly elevates the impact of the fourth line, transforming it from a simple capacity increase into a fundamental upgrade of the company’s service proposition.
A key element of the expansion was the integration of new workshops and “back shop” capabilities. This move toward vertical integration is a game-changer for operational efficiency. By bringing more services in-house, Caerdav can exert greater control over project timelines, reduce reliance on external suppliers, and ultimately shorten aircraft turnaround times, a critical metric for its customers. The less time an aircraft spends in the hangar, the more time it spends generating revenue.
The new on-site services are extensive and address common maintenance needs. The facility now includes dedicated workshops for composite repairs, a crucial capability given the increasing use of lightweight composite materials in modern aircraft. Furthermore, the addition of non-destructive testing (NDT) and specialized paint services means that more complex repair and restoration work can be completed under one roof. This comprehensive, self-contained service offering makes Caerdav a more attractive, one-stop-shop for its clients. “With the global demand for aircraft maintenance continuing to increase, opening a fourth line was the next phase of our detailed growth strategy. We are delighted to be in a position to bring additional jobs and opportunities to South Wales.”
– Chris Coleman, Managing Director at Caerdav
This investment in in-house capabilities reflects a broader industry trend toward efficiency and streamlined operations. For airlines and lessors managing end-of-lease transitions or heavy maintenance checks, the ability to have all necessary work done at a single facility is a significant logistical and financial advantage. Caerdav’s expansion directly addresses this need, positioning it to handle more complex, multi-faceted maintenance projects from start to finish.
Caerdav’s expansion is not happening in a vacuum. It is a direct and timely response to the powerful growth trajectory of the global aircraft MRO market. Industry forecasts paint a clear picture of a sector in ascent, with its value projected to exceed $100 billion in 2025 and continue on a strong growth path over the next decade. One report anticipates the market will reach $105.29 billion by 2029, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4%.
This growth is fueled by a confluence of factors. The post-pandemic rebound in air travel has reactivated fleets worldwide, while the overall number of aircraft in service continues to grow. Simultaneously, many existing aircraft are aging, which necessitates more frequent and intensive maintenance checks to ensure they remain compliant with stringent safety standards. These dynamics create a sustained, high-demand environment for MRO providers, making capacity and efficiency the keys to success.
Furthermore, the industry is seeing a trend toward outsourcing MRO services. Airlines are increasingly focusing on their core operations of flying passengers and cargo, preferring to partner with specialized, independent MROs like Caerdav. This allows them to leverage expert knowledge and state-of-the-art facilities without the immense capital investment required to maintain such capabilities in-house. Caerdav’s status as a fully independent provider is a core strength in this market, allowing it to serve a diverse customer base without conflict of interest.
A crucial aspect of Caerdav’s strategy is its sharp focus on the narrowbody aircraft market. The Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families are not just popular; they are the dominant force in the global fleet. Projections indicate that narrowbodies will increase their share of the world’s aircraft from 62% to 68% by 2035. This segment’s dominance is a direct driver of MRO demand, making specialization a highly effective strategy.
By doubling its capacity for these specific aircraft, Caerdav is positioning itself to capture a larger share of this expanding and lucrative market segment. The company’s expertise and tailored facilities allow it to perform maintenance on these aircraft with high efficiency. This focus is a clear advantage when competing for contracts from the numerous airlines and leasing companies that operate these fleets.
“Having signed agreements with a range of new customers, from airlines to major leasing companies, we are now in a position to fill our hangars throughout the year – which is the target for every aircraft MRO.”
– Chris Coleman, Managing Director at Caerdav This alignment with market-analysis trends demonstrates a forward-thinking approach. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, with a focus on data-driven maintenance and operational efficiency, MROs that are specialized, agile, and well-equipped will be the ones that thrive. Caerdav’s recent moves place it firmly in that category.
Caerdav’s completion of its fourth maintenance line is a landmark achievement that transcends a simple capacity increase. It represents a strategic enhancement of its entire operational model, combining increased throughput with a deeper well of in-house capabilities. By doubling down on the world’s most prevalent aircraft families and vertically integrating key services like composite repair and painting, the company has made itself a more efficient, reliable, and attractive partner in the fiercely competitive MRO landscape. This move is a testament to a clear-eyed growth strategy that is perfectly synchronized with the demands of the global aviation market.
Looking ahead, the future for Caerdav and the South Wales aviation sector appears exceptionally bright. The expansion is set to create more skilled jobs and reinforce the region’s reputation as a center of excellence for aerospace engineering. The company’s commitment to its apprenticeship program further signals a long-term investment in building a sustainable talent pipeline. As the global fleet continues to grow and age, Caerdav is now better positioned than ever to secure its place as a leader in the aircraft maintenance industry, ready to fill its hangars and help keep the world flying safely.
Question: What was the main goal of Caerdav’s recent expansion project? Question: What types of aircraft does Caerdav specialize in? Question: What new services can Caerdav now offer on-site? Question: Why is this expansion significant for the aviation industry?
Caerdav Doubles Down: A Strategic Expansion in a Surging Aircraft MRO Market
A Calculated Growth: Inside the ‘Twin Peaks’ Facility Upgrade
Enhanced In-House Capabilities
Riding the Wave: Aligning with a Booming Global MRO Market
The Narrowbody Advantage
Conclusion: A Bright Future Forged in Steel and Strategy
FAQ
Answer: The primary goal was to double the company’s aircraft maintenance capacity by opening a fourth maintenance line, allowing it to service four aircraft at once instead of two.
Answer: Caerdav specializes in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft families, which are the most common narrowbody jets in the global fleet.
Answer: The expansion included the addition of new workshops, allowing Caerdav to offer more in-house services such as composite repairs, non-destructive testing (NDT), and specialized repair and restoration paint services.
Answer: It comes at a time of high global demand for MRO services. By increasing capacity and efficiency for the most common aircraft, Caerdav is helping to support the needs of a growing and aging global fleet, which is crucial for maintaining airline operational readiness and safety.
Sources
Photo Credit: Caerdav
MRO & Manufacturing
Air France KLM Plans to Hire 1000 Maintenance Staff by 2027
Air France KLM will recruit over 1000 maintenance professionals by 2027, expanding facilities and securing major MRO contracts.
The aviation industry is currently witnessing a significant shift in operational priorities, with MRO sectors becoming as critical as passenger transport itself. In a major strategic development, the Air France-KLM Group has announced plans to recruit over 1,000 permanent employees for its maintenance division by the end of 2027. This recruitment drive is not merely a standard hiring cycle but a calculated expansion designed to bolster the group’s technical capabilities in an increasingly competitive global market.
This initiative focuses on Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M), a division that already stands as a global heavyweight in the MRO sector. Currently employing approximately 13,500 people worldwide, with 7,200 based in France, the division supports nearly 3,000 aircraft for over 200 airline customers. The decision to expand the workforce by such a significant margin highlights the group’s intent to secure its position as a leading multi-product MRO provider, ensuring stability against the traditional volatility of passenger travel.
The recruitment campaign targets a mix of experienced professionals and recent graduates, primarily within France. The focal points for these new roles include the Paris-Orly airport, Paris-Charles de Gaulle (the group’s primary global hub), and Toulouse, a city deeply embedded in the aerospace heritage of Europe. By securing talent now, Air France-KLM is positioning itself to handle a projected surge in maintenance demand over the coming decade.
A primary catalyst for this workforce expansion is the operational ramp-up of new, state-of-the-art facilities. Central to this growth is the new “Single Roof” engine workshop at Paris-Orly. Inaugurated in late 2023 and fully operational as of early 2024, this 4,200-square-meter facility represents a leap forward in maintenance efficiency. It has been designed to reduce engine processing times by 15%, specifically servicing next-generation engines such as the CFM LEAP (powering A320neo and 737 MAX), the Rolls-Royce Trent XWB (Airbus A350), and the Pratt & Whitney PW1500G (A220). The need for specialized technicians to man this high-tech environment is immediate and pressing.
Beyond infrastructure, the recruitment drive is directly linked to a series of high-profile commercial successes. The maintenance division has secured substantial long-term contracts that necessitate a larger workforce. Notable among these is a landmark 10-year agreement with Air Canada, finalized in February 2025, to provide component support for their fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Additionally, the group signed a long-term support agreement with Air Europa in October 2024 for their Boeing 787 fleet and extended a contract with CMA CGM Air Cargo for GE90 engine maintenance. These contracts confirm that the hiring is driven by tangible business volume rather than speculative growth.
Financial performance further underscores the viability of this expansion. In the first half of 2024, the maintenance division reported a revenue growth of 14%, outpacing many other sectors within the industry. By the third quarter of 2025, the group reported €9.2 billion in revenue with a stable operating margin, citing the maintenance arm as a “solid contributor.” This financial health provides the necessary foundation to invest heavily in human capital.
“The MRO sector is currently in a ‘super cycle,’ with global spending projected to reach $156 billion by 2035.”, Oliver Wyman Forecast
While the expansion presents opportunities, it also highlights a broader challenge facing the aviation sector: the global talent shortage. The industry is currently approaching what analysts call the “Technician Cliff.” Forecasts from Boeing suggest that the global aviation industry will require 710,000 new maintenance technicians by 2044 to keep pace with fleet growth and retirements. In North America alone, a shortfall of 40,000 mechanics is expected by 2028. By launching this aggressive recruitment drive now, Air France-KLM is effectively engaging in a preemptive strike to secure scarce skilled labor before the shortage becomes critical.
To mitigate the risks associated with this shortage, the group is investing heavily in Training and pipelines for future talent. Beyond the 1,000 permanent hires, Air France-KLM has committed to offering approximately 350 apprenticeships and 300 internships annually. They are leveraging strong partnerships with training centers such as AFMAé (Association pour la Formation aux Métiers de l’Aérien) and ENAC (École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile). These collaborations ensure that the influx of new employees possesses the rigorous technical certifications required for modern aircraft maintenance. Diversity also plays a crucial role in their recruitment strategy. Historically, aviation maintenance has been a male-dominated field, but the group is actively working to shift this demographic. Currently, women make up 16% of the technical workforce at AFI KLM E&M. However, positive trends are emerging, with women accounting for 22% of current apprentices. Through partnerships with initiatives like “Féminisons les métiers de l’aéronautique,” the group aims to tap into a wider talent pool, recognizing that solving the labor shortage requires inclusivity.
The decision by Air France-KLM to expand its maintenance workforce by 1,000 people is a reflection of the robust health of the MRO market and the group’s strategic foresight. By aligning recruitment with the opening of advanced facilities like the Orly engine shop and the securing of major international contracts, the company is ensuring it can deliver on its promises to third-party clients while maintaining its own fleet. This move transitions the maintenance division from a support function into a central pillar of the group’s economic model.
Looking ahead, this recruitment drive serves as a microcosm of the broader aviation industry’s trajectory. As airlines modernize fleets and global travel demands increase, the battle for technical talent will intensify. Air France-KLM’s proactive approach, combining immediate hiring with long-term educational partnerships, sets a benchmark for how major aviation groups can navigate the impending “super cycle” of maintenance demand while fostering a new, diverse generation of aviation professionals.
Question: What is the timeline for the recruitment of the 1,000 new employees? Question: Where will the new positions be located? Question: What types of profiles is Air France-KLM looking for?
Air France-KLM to Recruit 1,000 Maintenance Staff Amidst Global Demand
Strategic Drivers: New Facilities and Major Contracts
Navigating the “Technician Cliff” and Future Talent
Concluding Section
FAQ
Answer: Air France-KLM plans to complete the recruitment of over 1,000 permanent employees (CDI) by the end of 2027.
Answer: The recruitment is focused primarily in France, with key locations including Paris-Orly, Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), and Toulouse.
Answer: The group is targeting both experienced maintenance professionals and recent graduates. Additionally, they are offering hundreds of apprenticeships and internships annually to train new talent.
Sources
Photo Credit: Air France KLM
MRO & Manufacturing
Tim Aerospace Opens Major Independent MRO Hangar at Dubai South
Tim Aerospace inaugurates a large MRO facility at Dubai South MBRAH, enhancing aviation maintenance with digital innovation and high capacity.
The aviation landscape in the Middle East has taken a significant leap forward with the official inauguration of Tim Aerospace’s new facility at the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH). Located in Dubai South, this development represents a pivotal moment in the region’s strategy to solidify its status as a global aviation capital. The launch event, held in late November 2025, was attended by key industry figures, including H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, and Tahnoon Saif, CEO of MBRAH.
This new hangar is not merely an addition to the physical infrastructure of Dubai South; it serves as a testament to the growing demand for high-quality engineering services in the region. By establishing one of the largest independent Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hangars in the Middle East, we are witnessing a shift towards localized, high-value engineering capabilities. The facility is designed to cater to a diverse portfolio of clients, ranging from international airlines to cargo operators, thereby reducing the necessity for carriers to outsource maintenance to other global regions.
The project, which saw its agreement signed in 2023 and groundbreaking take place in March 2024, has moved rapidly from concept to operational reality. The inauguration marks the transition of Tim Aerospace from a service provider to a major infrastructure operator. This expansion aligns seamlessly with Dubai’s broader vision to create an integrated ecosystem that supports innovation and operational excellence across the entire aviation value chain.
The newly inaugurated hangar is defined by its impressive scale and “state-of-the-art” design, engineered to maximize operational efficiency. According to official reports, the facility is built to the maximum permitted design dimensions within the hub. This substantial footprint allows Tim Aerospace to accommodate a high volume of aircraft simultaneously, addressing the critical need for hangar space in a busy aviation hub.
In terms of specific capacity, the hangar is capable of housing up to five wide-body aircraft or twelve narrow-body aircraft at the same time. While the facility excludes the Airbus A380, its configuration is optimized for a wide range of commercial passenger and cargo fleets. This flexibility is essential for an independent MRO provider, as it allows for the servicing of mixed fleets without the logistical constraints often faced by facilities tied to a single carrier.
The services offered at this facility focus on comprehensive base maintenance. This level of service requires significant technical expertise and infrastructure, distinguishing it from lighter line maintenance operations. By offering these heavy maintenance checks locally, the facility provides a cost-efficient and high-quality alternative for airlines operating in and through the region.
“This milestone marks a new chapter in our journey to expand Tim Aerospace’s footprint and service capabilities in the Middle East. Our new facility at Dubai South is designed to set new standards in efficiency, safety, and reliability, while catering to the increasing demand for world-class MRO services.”, Timor Shah Shahab, Founder and CEO of Tim Aerospace.
A key differentiator for this new facility is its status as an independent MRO. Unlike other developments in the region, such as the dedicated facility being constructed for specific carriers like flydubai, the Tim Aerospace hangar is designed to serve third-party clients. This independence fosters a competitive environment and provides options for leasing companies and international airlines that require reliable maintenance partners within the Middle East.
Beyond physical capacity, the facility places a strong emphasis on technological advancement and sustainability. In February 2025, Tim Aerospace announced a strategic partnership with EmpowerMX to adopt cloud-based, paperless maintenance software. This move towards digital-first operations is intended to streamline workflows, reduce turnaround times, and minimize the environmental footprint associated with traditional paper-based maintenance logs. The integration of such technology underscores a commitment to modernizing aviation maintenance. By utilizing advanced software solutions, the facility aims to enhance resource management and operational transparency. This approach aligns with the sustainability goals of the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, ensuring that growth in the sector does not come at the expense of environmental responsibility.
“The inauguration of Tim Aerospace’s new facility further strengthens Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub and a preferred destination for leading aerospace companies. At MBRAH, our mission is to create an integrated ecosystem that supports innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth across the aviation value chain.”, Tahnoon Saif, CEO of Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH).
The inauguration of Tim Aerospace’s MRO hangar is a strategic development that reinforces Dubai South’s position as a preferred destination for aerospace companies. By delivering a facility that combines high capacity with digital innovation, the project addresses the immediate needs of the market while preparing for future growth. It stands as a clear indicator of the region’s maturing aviation sector, moving beyond transit hubs to become centers of engineering excellence.
Looking ahead, the operational success of this facility will likely encourage further investment in independent aviation infrastructure. As airlines continue to seek cost-effective and reliable maintenance solutions, the presence of such high-caliber facilities in Dubai will play a crucial role in retaining business within the region and supporting the global supply chain.
What is the capacity of the new Tim Aerospace hangar? Where is the new facility located? Is this facility exclusive to a specific airline? What technology is being used to enhance operations?
A New Milestone for Dubai’s Aviation Infrastructure
Operational Capacity and Engineering Capabilities
Handling Mixed Fleets
Strategic Independence and Technological Integration
Digital-First Operations
Conclusion
FAQ
The hangar can accommodate up to 5 wide-body aircraft (excluding the A380) or 12 narrow-body aircraft simultaneously.
The facility is located at the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) in Dubai South.
No, it is an independent MRO facility designed to serve a diverse portfolio of third-party clients, including international airlines and cargo operators.
Tim Aerospace has partnered with EmpowerMX to implement cloud-based, paperless maintenance software to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Sources
Photo Credit: Government of Dubai Media Office
MRO & Manufacturing
UAE Strengthens Aerospace Sector with EPI and Etihad Engineering Partnership
EPI and Etihad Engineering collaborate to manufacture aircraft wheel hubs locally, supporting UAE’s aerospace growth and supply chain independence.
We are witnessing a significant evolution in the United Arab Emirates’ industrial landscape, marked by a strategic convergence between the defense and commercial aviation sectors. At the Dubai Airshow 2025, a pivotal announcement was made regarding a collaboration between EPI, the precision engineering arm of EDGE Group, and Etihad Engineering, a global leader in MRO services. This partnership represents a calculated step toward localizing critical aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
The agreement focuses on the manufacturing and machining of aircraft wheel hubs, a vital component in the aviation supply chain. By moving this specific manufacturing process to domestic facilities, the collaboration aims to reduce dependency on international suppliers and enhance the operational efficiency of the UAE’s aviation sector. This move is not merely a commercial transaction but a structural shift intended to bolster the nation’s sovereign industrial capabilities.
For industry observers, this partnership signals the maturation of the UAE’s aerospace ecosystem. It demonstrates how precision engineering capabilities, originally honed for defense applications under EDGE Group, are being effectively transferred and applied to commercial aviation needs. We analyze the details of this agreement, the profiles of the entities involved, and the broader economic implications for the region.
The core of this collaboration involves two heavyweights in the UAE’s industrial sector. EPI serves as the cornerstone of precision engineering for EDGE Group, known for manufacturing complex metallic components for air, land, and sea platforms. Their expertise extends to surface treatment, heat treatment, and coating, serving major global clients including Airbus and Boeing. On the other side of the agreement is Etihad Engineering, recognized as the largest commercial MRO facility in the Middle East. Recently acquired by Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA), Etihad Engineering handles heavy maintenance and component repair for massive fleets, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787.
Under the terms of the agreement announced at the Dubai Airshow, the two entities will collaborate on the machining of aircraft wheel hubs. While this may appear to be a specific technical niche, the implications are broad. The ability to machine and repair these hubs domestically allows for faster turnaround times for aircraft maintenance. Instead of shipping components abroad for processing, a practice that incurs logistical costs and time delays, the work will now be performed within the UAE.
This initiative leverages EPI’s advanced manufacturing facilities to support Etihad Engineering’s MRO requirements. It is a practical application of industrial synergy, where the technical certifications and machinery of one entity resolve the supply chain needs of another. We see this as a clear example of how vertical integration within Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector is beginning to yield tangible operational benefits.
“This collaboration is a milestone for the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative, driving industrial growth and aerospace self-sufficiency.”, Michael Deshaies, CEO of EPI.
To understand the weight of this partnership, we must view it through the lens of the UAE’s national industrial strategy, “Operation 300bn.” This government initiative aims to increase the industrial sector’s contribution to the GDP from AED 133 billion to AED 300 billion by 2031. The collaboration between EPI and Etihad Engineering directly supports this goal by creating high-value industrial output within the country. By manufacturing aerospace-grade parts locally, the partners are contributing to the diversification of the economy away from oil dependence.
Furthermore, the deal is closely aligned with the In-Country Value (ICV) program. The ICV program is designed to redirect public and private spending back into the local economy. When Etihad Engineering pays EPI for machining services, that capital remains within the UAE’s financial ecosystem rather than flowing to foreign MRO shops or manufacturers. This retention of economic value is a critical component of sustainable development and national wealth generation. The “Make it in the Emirates” initiative also plays a central role here. By localizing the production of wheel hubs, the UAE is transitioning from a buyer of aerospace technology to a manufacturer. This shift is essential for long-term economic resilience. It fosters a skilled local workforce, encourages technology transfer, and builds an industrial base capable of supporting complex engineering projects in the future.
The global aviation industry learned harsh lessons regarding supply chain fragility during the COVID-19 pandemic. Disruptions in logistics grounded fleets and delayed essential maintenance worldwide. By establishing the capability to machine and repair critical components like wheel hubs domestically, the UAE is effectively insulating its aviation sector from future global supply chain shocks. This concept of “supply chain sovereignty” ensures that the nation’s fleets can remain operational regardless of external logistical challenges.
Looking ahead, we anticipate that this collaboration could serve as a template for further expansion. EPI is actively expanding its facilities to handle larger components and higher volumes, while Etihad Engineering targets a doubling of its revenue by 2030. If the machining of wheel hubs proves successful, it is plausible that the partnership will expand to cover other complex aircraft components. This could eventually lead to a scenario where a significant portion of aircraft MRO parts are manufactured or repaired entirely within the UAE.
The synergy between a defense-focused entity like EDGE and a commercial giant like Etihad Engineering also suggests a blurring of lines between military and civil industrial bases. This dual-use approach to industrial capability maximizes the return on investment for infrastructure and technology. As these entities continue to integrate their operations, the UAE solidifies its position not just as a global transit hub, but as a center of excellence for aerospace engineering and manufacturing.
The collaboration between EPI and Etihad Engineering marks a definitive step forward for the UAE’s aerospace sector. By localizing the machining of aircraft wheel hubs, these entities are addressing immediate operational needs while contributing to the long-term strategic goals of “Operation 300bn” and the In-Country Value program. The partnership highlights the growing maturity of the local industrial base and its ability to deliver precision engineering solutions that meet rigorous international standards.
As we look to the future, the success of this initiative will likely encourage further cooperation between the defense and commercial sectors. The transition from importing solutions to creating them domestically is well underway, positioning the UAE to become a self-reliant powerhouse in the global aviation industry.
What was announced by EPI and Etihad Engineering? How does this benefit the UAE economy? What are the roles of the companies involved?
Strengthening National Aerospace: The EPI and Etihad Engineering Collaboration
Defining the Strategic Alliance
Economic Impact and “Operation 300bn”
Supply Chain Sovereignty and Future Implications
Concluding Section
FAQ
At the Dubai Airshow 2025, EPI and Etihad Engineering announced a strategic collaboration to manufacture and machine aircraft wheel hubs domestically within the UAE.
The partnership supports the “Operation 300bn” strategy and the In-Country Value (ICV) program by retaining economic value within the country and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
EPI, a subsidiary of EDGE Group, specializes in precision engineering and manufacturing. Etihad Engineering is a leading global provider of aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services.
Sources
Photo Credit: EDGE Group
-
Commercial Aviation4 days agoRyanair Discusses Airbus Order to Renew Lauda Europe Fleet
-
Airlines Strategy7 days agoAer Lingus Considers Closing Manchester Base Affecting 200 Jobs
-
MRO & Manufacturing6 days agoGE Aerospace Invests 53 Million to Expand Engine Production in North Carolina
-
Commercial Aviation2 days agoWestern Global Airlines Furloughs Pilots After MD-11 Fleet Grounding
-
Commercial Aviation7 days agoITA Airways Grounds 22 Aircraft Over Pratt & Whitney Engine Defect