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
Satair and Joramco Extend 25-Year Partnership at MRO Middle East 2026
Satair and Joramco renew their 25-year supply agreement at MRO Middle East 2026, supporting Joramco’s maintenance operations and new contracts.
This article is based on an official press release from Satair and additional industry reporting regarding MRO Middle East 2026.
At the MRO Middle East 2026 exhibition in Dubai, Satair, an Airbus Services company, and Joramco (Jordan Aircraft Maintenance Limited) officially announced the renewal of their long-standing Consumables and Expendables Supply Agreement. The deal marks the continuation of a strategic partnership that has spanned more than a quarter of a century, reinforcing the critical role of integrated supply chains in the growing Middle Eastern aviation maintenance sector.
According to the announcement, the renewed agreement is designed to secure a consistent flow of essential spare parts for Joramco’s base maintenance operations in Amman, Jordan. By locking in this supply chain solution, Joramco aims to minimize “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG) risks and reduce the complexity of material management for its expanding customer base.
The partnership between Satair and Joramco is one of the most enduring in the region. For over 25 years, Satair has served as a primary provider of consumables and expendables, high-volume, low-cost parts essential for routine maintenance, to the Jordan-based MRO provider.
In the official release, the companies highlighted the operational benefits of the extension. The agreement allows Joramco to leverage Satair’s global distribution network, ensuring that parts are available precisely when needed. This “just-in-time” capability is vital for MROs (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul providers) striving to offer competitive turnaround times to airlines.
A primary focus of the renewal is the mitigation of supply chain disruptions. By outsourcing the management of consumables to Satair, Joramco can focus its internal resources on heavy maintenance and engineering tasks rather than logistics. The agreement reportedly covers a comprehensive range of Airbus and Boeing fleet requirements, aligning with Joramco’s diverse capabilities.
“This continued partnership with Satair ensures we have the right parts at the right time, allowing us to deliver superior turnaround times to our global customers.”
, Statement attributed to Joramco leadership regarding the renewal
The renewal comes amidst a flurry of activity at MRO Middle East 2026, where both companies have announced significant independent expansions. The event, held on February 4–5, 2026, has served as a platform for major industry shifts in the region. According to industry reporting from the event, Joramco has also secured a major five-year heavy maintenance agreement with the German leisure carrier Condor. This deal will see Joramco performing base maintenance on Condor’s entire Airbus fleet, including the A320ceo, A320neo, and A330neo. Additionally, Joramco celebrated the first graduates of its Structured On-the-Job Training (SOJT) program, a move aimed at addressing the global shortage of skilled aviation technicians.
Simultaneously, Satair has expanded its footprint in the sustainability sector. Reports from the event indicate Satair signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GAMECO (Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Co.) to enter the Used Serviceable Material (USM) market, addressing the rising demand for cost-effective and sustainable parts solutions.
The renewal of the Satair-Joramco agreement highlights a critical trend in the post-2025 aviation landscape: the prioritization of supply chain resilience. In an era where global parts shortages have frequently grounded fleets, MRO providers are increasingly moving toward long-term, integrated agreements with major distributors rather than relying on spot-market purchasing.
Furthermore, the Middle East’s trajectory as a global MRO hub is evident in these announcements. Joramco’s ability to secure European contracts like the Condor deal, backed by a robust supply chain from Satair, suggests that regional players are successfully competing on a global scale by combining geographic advantages with high-grade logistical reliability.
Satair and Joramco Extend 25-Year Supply Chain Partnership at MRO Middle East 2026
Strengthening a Quarter-Century Alliance
Operational Efficiency and AOG Reduction
Broader Context: MRO Middle East 2026 Developments
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Satair
MRO & Manufacturing
Joramco Renews Maintenance Agreement with mas Cargo Airline for 2026
Joramco extends its maintenance contract with Mexican cargo airline mas for heavy checks on Airbus A330 freighters throughout 2026 at its Amman facility.
This article is based on an official press release from Joramco.
Joramco, the Amman-based aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility and engineering arm of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), has officially announced the renewal of its maintenance agreement with mas (formerly MasAir), a prominent Mexican cargo airline. The agreement was finalized and signed during the MRO Middle East 2026 exhibition in Dubai, marking a continuation of the strategic partnership between the two entities.
Under the terms of the renewed contract, Joramco will perform heavy base maintenance checks on the mas fleet of Airbus A330 freighters. The work is scheduled to take place throughout 2026 at Joramco’s facility at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan. This announcement underscores the MRO provider’s increasing traction in the global cargo sector and its ability to secure recurring business from international carriers outside its traditional regional stronghold.
According to the company’s announcement, the new deal focuses specifically on heavy base maintenance, often referred to as C-checks, for the carrier’s Airbus A330 fleet. These checks are critical for ensuring the continued airworthiness and operational reliability of the freighter aircraft, which are essential to mas’s global logistics network.
This renewal follows a successful initial collaboration established relatively recently. Joramco and mas first formalized their partnerships in October 2025 at the MRO Europe exhibition in London. That initial agreement covered maintenance checks that began in December 2025. The rapid renewal, signed just four months later, suggests a successful execution of the initial checks and a deepening of the business relationship.
In a statement regarding the renewal, Joramco’s leadership highlighted the significance of the repeat business.
“We are pleased to welcome more aircraft from mas at Joramco. This agreement reaffirms Joramco’s position as a trusted Global MRO provider of choice.”
, Adam Voss, CEO of Joramco
The agreement with mas aligns with Joramco’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint. By securing a renewal with a Latin American carrier, the Jordan-based MRO is demonstrating its competitiveness on a global scale, attracting airframes from the Americas to the Middle-East for heavy maintenance. The timing of this renewal is notable within the wider context of the MRO industry’s capacity constraints. In late 2025, Joramco inaugurated “Hangar 7,” a significant infrastructure expansion that reportedly increased its capacity to 22 parallel maintenance lines. This expansion appears to be paying dividends, allowing the facility to accommodate the “more aircraft” referenced by CEO Adam Voss.
Furthermore, the cargo market remains a demanding sector requiring high asset utilization. For a specialized Cargo-Aircraft airline like mas, which operates a modernizing fleet of Airbus A330 Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) aircraft, securing reliable MRO slots is a strategic priority. The quick transition from an initial contract in late 2025 to a full-year renewal for 2026 indicates that Joramco has successfully met the technical and turnaround time requirements demanded by the cargo carrier.
Joramco: A subsidiary of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), Joramco has operated for over 60 years. Based in Amman, Jordan, it provides airframe maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer aircraft.
mas: Headquartered in Mexico City, mas (formerly MasAir) is a specialized cargo airline operating scheduled and charter freight services across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The airline has been actively expanding its capacity with Airbus A330 freighters to support its international network.
Sources:
Joramco Extends Maintenance Partnership with mas Cargo Airline for 2026
Scope of the Renewed Agreement
Strategic Context and Capacity Expansion
AirPro News Analysis
About the Companies
Photo Credit: Joramco
MRO & Manufacturing
Liebherr and Röder Expand MRO for Embraer E-Jet Landing Gear
Liebherr-Aerospace and Röder Präzision deepen cooperation to overhaul main landing gear for Embraer E-Jet E1 family, enhancing capacity and reducing turnaround times.
This article is based on an official press release from Liebherr-Aerospace.
Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH and Röder Präzision GmbH have officially announced a significant expansion of their MRO cooperation. According to a joint statement released in early February 2026, the new agreement tasks Röder Präzision with the overhaul of structural components for the main landing gear of the Embraer E-Jet E1 family. This move builds upon a pre-existing partnership that was previously limited to nose landing gear components.
The deepened collaboration comes as the global aviation industry faces rising demand for maintenance capacity. By integrating Röder Präzision’s Egelsbach facility into the supply chain for main landing gear structures, Liebherr aims to increase industrial capacity and reduce turnaround times (TAT) for operators of the E170, E175, E190, and E195 aircraft. The agreement is effective immediately, with operations expected to scale up throughout 2026.
As the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for the E-Jet landing gear system, Liebherr-Aerospace retains authority over the final product, while leveraging Röder’s specialized capabilities to handle the volume of structural repairs required by the aging global fleet.
The agreement establishes a clear division of responsibilities designed to optimize the overhaul process. While Röder Präzision takes on the industrial heavy lifting for individual components, Liebherr maintains control over the critical airworthiness certification and system integration.
Liebherr’s facility in Lindenberg remains the center of competence for the program. The OEM is responsible for the “top-level” processes, which include:
Röder Präzision, an established MRO provider, will handle the detailed industrial overhaul of the structural parts. Their scope includes:
According to the announcement, Röder has invested in expanded machinery and specific employee qualification programs to meet the technical demands of the main landing gear, which involves larger and more complex components than the nose gear they previously handled.
The timing of this agreement is driven by the lifecycle of the Embraer E-Jet E1 fleet. The aircraft family, which entered service in the mid-2000s, is currently experiencing a “bow wave” of heavy maintenance requirements.
Landing gear overhaul intervals for the E-Jet are typically set at 10 years or 20,000 flight cycles for the E190/195, and 12 years or 30,000 flight cycles for the E170/175. With a significant portion of the global fleet reaching these milestones simultaneously, the demand for overhaul slots has surged. By utilizing a domestic German supply chain, Liebherr intends to minimize logistics costs and shipping times, offering a faster alternative to non-European vendors. “This cooperation is a win-win situation. We are covering global needs that are sure to arise in the near future. At the same time, we can offer our customers greater capacities and faster turnaround times thanks to short delivery routes.”
— Gerd Heinzelmann, Managing Director, Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH
Bastian Heberer, CEO of the Röder Group, emphasized that the deal is built on a foundation of trust established during their previous work on nose landing gear.
“We are very pleased to be able to deepen the long-standing, trust-based partnership with Liebherr with this agreement. With our targeted investments in machinery and the qualification of our employees, we are a reliable partner for Liebherr.”
— Bastian Heberer, CEO, Röder Group
This agreement highlights a growing trend in the MRO sector where OEMs are increasingly relying on trusted third-party providers to manage capacity constraints. While OEMs like Liebherr hold the intellectual property and certification authority, the sheer volume of mature fleets, like the E-Jet E1, requires more industrial throughput than many OEMs can manage alone without expanding their own physical footprint.
By outsourcing the component-level repair work to Röder while keeping the high-value assembly and certification in-house, Liebherr effectively creates a “hybrid” MRO model. This allows them to scale capacity rapidly in response to the current market surge without bearing the full capital expenditure of building new component repair shops. For operators, the promise of a “domestic solution” within Germany suggests a focus on supply chain resilience, reducing the risk of delays associated with cross-border logistics.
What aircraft are covered by this agreement? When does the new cooperation begin? Does Röder Präzision certify the landing gear? Sources: Liebherr-Aerospace
Liebherr-Aerospace and Röder Präzision Expand Partnership for Embraer E-Jet Landing Gear Overhaul
Operational Division of Labor
Liebherr-Aerospace (Lindenberg)
Röder Präzision (Egelsbach)
Strategic Context: The E-Jet “Overhaul Wave”
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The agreement covers the Embraer E-Jet E1 family, which includes the E170, E175, E190, and E195 models.
The cooperation is effective immediately, with the volume of overhaul work expected to scale up successively throughout 2026.
No. Röder performs the overhaul of structural components, but Liebherr-Aerospace retains responsibility for final testing and airworthiness certification.
Photo Credit: Liebherr
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