MRO & Manufacturing
GE Aerospace Boosts Jet Engine MRO Capacity in Brazil with Major Investment
GE Aerospace expands Celma Brazil facility to double MRO capacity, focusing on CFM LEAP engine with 400 new jobs and advanced maintenance operations.
The life of a commercial jet engine is a grueling cycle of extreme temperatures, immense pressures, and relentless performance demands. This reality makes MRO services a cornerstone of the global aviation industry, ensuring the safety and reliability of thousands of flights daily. In a significant move to meet future demand, GE Aerospace is undertaking a massive expansion of its Celma MRO facility in Brazil, a project that highlights the country’s growing importance as a global aerospace hub.
This expansion is not just a routine upgrade; it’s a strategic investment of R$430 million designed to nearly double the facility’s engine servicing capacity. The project centers on the burgeoning need for MRO services for the new generation of high-efficiency engines, particularly the CFM LEAP. As these modern powerplants begin to mature, the demand for their first major overhauls is surging, and GE is positioning its Brazilian operations to be at the forefront of this wave. The expansion is also set to create 400 new jobs, reinforcing GE’s long-standing commitment to the region.
With a history stretching back to the 1950s and as part of GE Aerospace since 1996, the Celma complex is already a critical asset. The new investment will elevate its capabilities, particularly at its Três Rios plant, transforming it into a world-leading center for LEAP engine maintenance. This move signals confidence in the local workforce and infrastructure, preparing for a future where advanced MRO services are more critical than ever.
The primary driver behind this substantial investment is the CFM LEAP engine. Since entering service in 2016, the LEAP has become a dominant force in the single-aisle aircraft market. It is the exclusive engine for the Boeing 737 MAX and a key option for the Airbus A320neo family, two of the most popular commercial aircraft in the world. It also powers the Comac C919, further expanding its global footprint. As the first wave of these engines reaches its initial scheduled maintenance window, a massive demand for specialized MRO services has been created.
GE Aerospace’s expansion directly addresses this market need. The plan will increase the Celma facility’s overall capacity from servicing around 600 engines annually to over 1,000. The Três Rios facility, first established in 2018, will be the epicenter of this growth. Upon completion, it is set to become the largest MRO shop in the world dedicated to the CFM LEAP engine, capable of handling both the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B variants. This specialization is crucial for developing the deep expertise and efficiency required to service these advanced engines.
While the new facility focuses on the LEAP, the broader Celma complex will continue its work on a range of other critical engines, including the CF6, CFM56, and GEnx. This ensures that the site remains a versatile and comprehensive MRO hub, capable of servicing a diverse global fleet. The expansion builds upon a strong foundation of technical excellence, positioning the facility to handle both current and next-generation engine technologies.
“The Três Rios MRO shop will be the largest CFM LEAP* engine overhaul facility in the world, attracting customers from other continents and strengthening Brazil’s reputation as a key player in the aerospace industry.”, Julio Talon, GE Aerospace’s MRO leader for Brazil
The R$430 million investment represents more than just an increase in capacity; it’s a significant boost to Brazil’s standing in the global aerospace industry. The creation of 400 new positions, many of which will be for highly skilled MRO technicians, brings the total GE Aerospace employment in the region to nearly 4,000. This not only provides valuable jobs but also deepens the pool of specialized talent within the country, fostering a robust ecosystem for aviation technology and maintenance.
To manage this scaled-up operation, GE will implement its proprietary “FLIGHT DECK” lean operating model. This system is designed to optimize the flow of parts and engine components throughout the MRO process, enhancing efficiency, reducing turnaround times, and maintaining the highest standards of quality. This focus on operational excellence is a key part of providing world-class MRO services, where safety and precision are paramount. The disciplined approach ensures that as volume increases, quality and reliability remain the top priorities. The timing of this expansion is also symbolic, aligning with several key milestones. The inauguration of the new MRO shop is planned for 2026, which will mark Celma’s 75th anniversary and its 30th year as part of the GE Aerospace family. This confluence of events celebrates a long history of aviation excellence while firmly looking toward the future. The expansion is a testament to the successful partnership and the confidence GE has in its Brazilian operations to meet the challenges of the coming decades.
GE Aerospace’s expansion in Celma is a calculated and forward-thinking move. It is a direct response to clear market dynamics, driven by the lifecycle of the workhorse LEAP engine. By investing heavily in the Três Rios facility, the company is not only preparing for a surge in MRO demand but is also establishing a global center of excellence for next-generation engine maintenance. This project is a powerful combination of increased capacity, advanced operational strategies, and significant job creation.
Ultimately, this expansion solidifies Brazil’s role as an indispensable part of the global aviation supply chain. As the new facility comes online, it will play a crucial role in keeping a significant portion of the world’s single-aisle fleet flying safely and efficiently. It is a story of strategic growth, technological advancement, and a long-term commitment to a region that has proven itself to be a vital partner in the aerospace industry.
Question: What is the main purpose of the GE Aerospace expansion in Brazil? Question: How many jobs will the expansion create? Question: What is the CFM LEAP engine? Question: When will the new facility be operational? Sources: GE Aerospace
GE Aerospace’s Big Bet on Brazil: Gearing Up for the Next Wave of Jet Engine Maintenance
The Core of the Expansion: The LEAP Engine
Bolstering a Global Aerospace Hub
Conclusion: Powering the Future of Flight
FAQ
Answer: The primary goal is to nearly double the facility’s engine MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) capacity from around 600 to over 1,000 engines per year, with a specific focus on meeting the growing global demand for servicing the CFM LEAP engine.
Answer: The expansion is expected to create 400 new jobs, increasing GE Aerospace’s total employment at its Brazil operation to nearly 4,000 people.
Answer: It is a modern, high-efficiency jet engine that powers some of the world’s most popular single-aisle commercial aircraft, including the Boeing 737 MAX and the Airbus A320neo family.
Answer: The expansion work is scheduled for completion by the fall of 2025, with the official inauguration of the new MRO shop planned for 2026.
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
MRO & Manufacturing
Recaro Aircraft Seating Reports €588M Revenue with Global Expansion
Recaro Aircraft Seating achieves €588 million in 2024 revenue, expanding facilities in Poland, Germany, and India amid increased airline contracts.
This article is based on an official press release from Recaro Aircraft Seating and verified industry market data.
Recaro Aircraft Seating has officially confirmed a robust financial performance for the 2024 fiscal year, reporting revenues of €588 million. This figure represents a growth of approximately 12.2% compared to the €524 million recorded in 2023. The announcement underscores the company’s successful navigation of the post-pandemic aviation recovery and its aggressive strategy to capture market share in both economy and business class segments.
According to the company’s latest Financial-Results disclosure, the upward trajectory is expected to continue, with forecasts predicting double-digit revenue increases for 2025 and beyond. This optimism is supported by a record-breaking Orders book that currently exceeds €2 billion. To sustain this momentum, Recaro has initiated significant operational investments under its internal “space2grow” and “fit4growth” programs, aimed at expanding production capacity and securing supply chain resilience.
The confirmed revenue of €588 million for 2024 marks a significant milestone for the German seat manufacturer. While preliminary industry reports had estimated figures around €576 million, the final confirmed data highlights a stronger-than-anticipated performance. This double-digit growth comes at a critical time for the aircraft interiors market, which is seeing a surge in demand for both new aircraft deliveries and retrofit programs.
In its official statement, Recaro emphasized that the current backlog, valued at over €2 billion, provides a stable foundation for future planning. The company attributes this financial health to a diversified portfolio that now spans from regional jet seating to high-end business class suites.
To manage the logistical challenges of rapid expansion, Recaro is executing two primary strategic initiatives designed to scale operations and mitigate global Supply-Chain risks.
The “space2grow” initiative focuses on physical infrastructure and workforce expansion. Key developments include:
Parallel to physical expansion, the “fit4growth” program targets operational efficiency. A core component of this strategy is the “local for local” sourcing model, intended to reduce shipping times and carbon footprint. Additionally, Recaro is implementing a flexible global production network, allowing the same seat models to be manufactured across multiple sites, including Germany, China, Poland, and the USA, to prevent regional bottlenecks.
Recaro has secured several high-profile Contracts that signal a shift beyond its traditional dominance in the economy class sector. Notably, the company has become a “Supplier Furnished Equipment” (SFE) partner for Embraer, providing the BL3710 (R2) and SL3710 (R1) seats for E1 and E2 jets. This Partnerships, which began development in Q3 2023, allows airlines to order these seats directly from the airframer catalog. Other major airline commitments include:
In May 2024, the company also simplified its branding, renaming its product lines R1 through R7 to provide greater clarity to customers. This rebranding coincides with a push toward sustainability, highlighted by the “R Sphere” concept seat, which utilizes recycled materials such as cork, wood, and fishing nets.
Recaro’s performance offers a distinct contrast to mixed results seen elsewhere in the aircraft interiors sector. While competitors like Safran Seats have reported aggressive growth, with business class deliveries jumping from 983 units in 2023 to 2,482 in 2024, other major players face headwinds. For instance, Collins Aerospace reported a 6% decline in commercial Original Equipment (OE) sales in Q4 2024, despite strong aftermarket performance.
Recaro’s ability to secure double-digit growth in this environment suggests that its “local for local” strategy and focus on narrowbody and retrofit markets are paying dividends. By diversifying into business class (R7) and regional jets (Embraer), Recaro is effectively insulating itself from segment-specific downturns, positioning the firm as a resilient competitor against larger conglomerates.
What was Recaro Aircraft Seating’s revenue for 2024? What is the “space2grow” initiative? Which airlines have recently signed contracts with Recaro? How has Recaro changed its product names?
Recaro Aircraft Seating Reports €588 Million Revenue Amidst Global Expansion
Financial Performance and Future Outlook
Strategic Initiatives: space2grow and fit4growth
Expanding Global Footprint (space2grow)
Operational Efficiency (fit4growth)
Market Wins and Product Innovation
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Recaro confirmed a revenue of €588 million for 2024, a 12.2% increase over the previous year.
It is an expansion program involving new facilities in Poland and India, a 60% increase in testing capacity in Germany, and significant global hiring.
Recent major wins include Southwest Airlines, Iberia, Cathay Pacific, LATAM, and LOT Polish Airlines.
In May 2024, Recaro rebranded its seats to a simplified “R” series (R1 through R7), covering everything from short-range economy to business class suites.
Sources
Photo Credit: Recaro Aircraft
MRO & Manufacturing
easyJet to Acquire Adria Tehnika MRO Facility in Slovenia
easyJet signs agreement to acquire Adria Tehnika in Slovenia, expanding in-house heavy maintenance capabilities with a five-bay hangar and skilled workforce.
This article is based on an official press release from easyJet.
easyJet has officially signed an agreement to acquire Adria Tehnika, a specialized aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider based at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport in Slovenia. The acquisition, announced in early December 2025, represents a major strategic shift for the low-cost carrier as it moves to bring significant heavy maintenance operations in-house.
According to the airline’s announcement, the transaction includes the transfer of Adria Tehnika’s five-bay hangar facility and its workforce of approximately 250 skilled engineers and staff. The deal is expected to close in early 2026, subject to standard regulatory approvals. This move follows easyJet’s 2024 acquisition of the SR Technics facility in Malta, further solidifying the airline’s control over its maintenance supply chain.
The acquisition of Adria Tehnika provides easyJet with immediate access to established heavy maintenance infrastructure. The Ljubljana facility spans approximately 10,000 square meters and has the capacity to handle roughly 400,000 man-hours annually. By integrating this facility, easyJet aims to secure guaranteed maintenance slots, a critical resource that has become increasingly scarce in the post-pandemic aviation landscape.
Brendan McConnellogue, Director of Engineering & Maintenance at easyJet, highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two companies in the press statement:
“We have worked with Adria Tehnika for almost a decade and entrusted them with over 200 heavy maintenance inputs… We are really pleased to be acquiring the facility, along with its skilled workforce, which will help us further our aim of bringing more of our maintenance in-house.”
The airline noted that Adria Tehnika has previously executed complex projects for easyJet, including the “SpaceFlex” cabin reconfiguration program initiated in 2016. Under the new ownership structure, Barbara Perko Brvar will continue to lead the organization as CEO.
This acquisition is part of a broader strategy by easyJet to reduce reliance on third-party providers. By owning the facilities, the airline seeks to improve operational resilience and mitigate the risks associated with supply chain delays and slot unavailability.
According to company statements, bringing these operations in-house allows for greater cost efficiency and tighter control over maintenance scheduling. This is particularly vital as the airline manages a large fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft, which require regular heavy maintenance checks. The decision by easyJet to acquire Adria Tehnika reflects a growing industry trend known as “insourcing.” In the wake of global supply chain disruptions and a shortage of skilled aviation mechanics, airlines are increasingly moving away from the pure outsourcing models that dominated the last two decades.
Market data suggests that the global MRO market is currently facing a “super cycle” of demand. Aging fleets, delayed deliveries of new aircraft from manufacturers, and high utilization rates have squeezed the availability of third-party maintenance slots. By purchasing Adria Tehnika, and previously the SR Technics facility in Malta, easyJet is effectively insulating itself from market volatility. This vertical integration ensures that the airline is not left competing for hangar space during peak maintenance seasons, protecting its flight schedules and operational reliability.
Adria Tehnika has a deep history in European aviation, originally serving as the technical division of Slovenia’s former national carrier, Adria Airways. It became an independent entity in 2010 and has since built a reputation for expertise on Airbus A320 and Bombardier CRJ series aircraft. The company holds EASA Part-145 maintenance and Part-147 training certifications.
While easyJet will become the owner, the facility has historically served a diverse client roster, including major carriers such as Lufthansa, SAS, and Brussels Airlines. In the press release, Adria Tehnika’s leadership expressed optimism about the facility’s future development under the backing of a major airline group.
“With a strategic investor like easyJet, we will be able to further and more rapidly develop our activities, capacities, and the expertise of our employees,” said Barbara Perko Brvar, CEO of Adria Tehnika.
The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed in the initial announcement.
Securing Maintenance Capacity
Strategic Rationale: The Shift to Insourcing
AirPro News analysis
About Adria Tehnika
Sources
Photo Credit: easyJet
MRO & Manufacturing
AerFin Releases 6,000 A320neo Parts to Ease Supply Chain Pressure
AerFin adds over 6,000 Airbus A320neo components from five dismantled aircraft to global inventory, supporting operators amid supply chain delays.
In a significant move to alleviate ongoing pressure on the aviation aftermarket, UK-based aviation specialist AerFin has officially announced the release of over 6,000 Airbus A320neo components into its global inventory. The injection of high-demand Used Serviceable Material (USM) follows the successful dismantling of five A320neo airframes, a project aimed at supporting operators facing severe delays in new parts manufacturing and engine repairs.
According to the company’s announcement, the teardown process is now complete, and the inventory is live. The stock includes critical assets such as major structural assemblies, nacelles, Auxiliary Power Units (APUs), landing gears, and a wide variety of rotable components. By strategically positioning these assets across hubs in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas, AerFin aims to provide immediate relief to airlines struggling to keep their fleets operational.
The inventory originates from five relatively young Airbus A320neo Commercial-Aircraft, a rarity in the teardown market where older aircraft are usually the primary source of spare parts. AerFin disclosed that four of the airframes were previously operated by the now-defunct Indian carrier Go First. These aircraft were acquired in July 2025 through a partnership with a Middle Eastern investor and were subsequently dismantled in Tarbes, France, by TARMAC Aerosave.
The fifth aircraft was acquired in September 2025 from EMP Aviation Trading. This airframe was dismantled in the Philippines by SIA Engineering (SIAEP), marking AerFin’s first teardown operation in the Asia-Pacific region. The company noted that two Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines from this fifth aircraft were immediately placed into the market in October, highlighting the urgent demand for propulsion systems.
AerFin leadership emphasized that the decision to dismantle modern aircraft is a direct response to market needs. Simon Goodson, CEO of AerFin, stated in the press release:
“A320neo operators are navigating sustained Supply-Chain pressures. By recovering material at scale and positioning it across our global network, we’re giving customers dependable access to the quality components they need to keep their fleets flying.”
To ensure rapid delivery to operators worldwide, AerFin has distributed the newly harvested components across its global logistics network. The company confirmed that inventory is currently positioned at its headquarters in Newport and its facility at London Gatwick to serve the UK and European markets.
For the Asia-Pacific region, inventory is held in Singapore. This distribution is supported by a logistics Partnerships with B&H Worldwide, ensuring that parts can be deployed quickly to airlines in the region. Meanwhile, fast-moving components are being introduced to AerFin’s Miami warehouse to support operators in North and South America.
The dismantling of current-generation aircraft like the A320neo is an unusual event in the aviation industry, typically reserved for aircraft nearing the end of their 20-to-25-year lifecycles. However, the bankruptcy of Go First created a unique opportunity to harvest “young” parts with high remaining life. In our view, this move by AerFin highlights the severity of the current supply chain crisis, particularly regarding the Pratt & Whitney GTF engines. With new aircraft deliveries delayed and engine shop visits taking longer than expected, the value of immediate USM has skyrocketed. By injecting 6,000 modern parts into the system, AerFin is not just selling inventory; they are providing a critical stopgap for airlines that might otherwise face grounded aircraft (AOG) situations. The involvement of a Middle Eastern investor also suggests that the financial sector sees high potential returns in the teardown of modern assets, a trend that may continue as long as manufacturing bottlenecks persist.
AerFin Releases 6,000 A320neo Components to Combat Global Supply Chain Strain
Sourcing the Airframes: A Strategic Acquisition
Executive Commentary
Global Logistics and Distribution Network
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: AerFin
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