MRO & Manufacturing
Air Arabia and Lufthansa Technik Extend Engine MRO Partnership Till 2033
Air Arabia extends its MRO partnership with Lufthansa Technik for CFM56-5B engine and radome repairs, securing maintenance till 2033.
In the aviation industry, the reliability of an aircraft fleet is paramount, directly impacting operational efficiency, safety, and profitability. For low-cost carriers (LCCs) like Air Arabia, which operate on high-frequency routes and tight turnaround schedules, technical dispatch reliability is not just a goal; it’s the bedrock of their business model. This makes the choice of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) partner a strategic decision with long-term consequences. The recent extension of the partnership between Air Arabia and Lufthansa Technik is a significant development, highlighting a deepening collaboration that has been foundational for nearly a decade.
The agreement, announced at the Dubai Airshow, goes beyond a simple continuation of services. It marks a new chapter in a relationship that began in 2015, evolving from component services to now include comprehensive engine MRO. This strategic move underscores the trust Air Arabia places in Lufthansa Technik’s engineering expertise and service quality. For an airline that has pioneered the low-cost model in the Middle East and North Africa, ensuring its workhorse fleet of Airbus A320ceo aircraft remains in peak condition is crucial for sustaining its competitive edge and remarkable growth story.
The core of the newly expanded agreement is a long-term contract for the comprehensive overhaul of the CFM56-5B engines that power Air Arabia’s 43 Airbus A320ceo aircraft. This engine model is one of the most popular and reliable powerplants in the history of commercial aviation, and its proper maintenance is critical to the A320’s performance. Under the terms of the deal, which extends until 2033, these vital MRO services will be performed at Lufthansa Technik’s specialized engine workshop in Hamburg, Germany. The first of Air Arabia’s engines has already arrived at the facility, signaling the immediate commencement of this long-term arrangement.
This partnership ensures that Air Arabia’s engines will be maintained to the highest industry standards, leveraging Lufthansa Technik’s extensive experience and advanced technological capabilities. Engine overhauls are complex and costly procedures, and securing a long-term contract provides the airline with predictable maintenance schedules and costs, which is invaluable for financial planning and operational stability. It allows the carrier to focus on its core business of providing affordable air travel, confident that the technical backbone of its fleet is in expert hands.
The decision to entrust its entire A320ceo engine fleet to a single provider reflects a strategic consolidation of MRO activities. This approach often leads to greater efficiency, streamlined logistics, and a more collaborative relationship where the MRO provider gains deep familiarity with the airline’s specific operational needs. As Tim Butzmann, Senior Director of Corporate Sales for the Middle-East and Africa at Lufthansa Technik, noted, this move “significantly broadens our level of collaboration and thus writes a whole new chapter.”
“Being a true pioneer for the low-fares business model in the region, Air Arabia has written a remarkable success story here in the Middle East, and we feel honored to be part of it for already ten years now.”, Tim Butzmann, Senior Director Corporate Sales Middle East and Africa, Lufthansa Technik
Beyond the critical engine services, the agreement also includes a five-year extension for comprehensive nose radome repairs. This specialized service will be provided by Lufthansa Technik Middle East (LTME), a testament to the provider’s growing capabilities and footprint within the region. The radome, the nose cone of the aircraft, is a structurally critical component that also protects the weather radar system, and its proper maintenance is essential for safe flight operations. This extension covers not only the current fleet but also anticipates the needs of Air Arabia’s future aircraft.
This multi-faceted agreement builds upon a pre-existing foundation. Air Arabia already holds a multi-year Total Component Services (TCS) contract with Lufthansa Technik, which covers a wide range of aircraft parts. The addition of engine and specialized radome services creates a more integrated MRO solution for the airline. This holistic approach simplifies maintenance management and ensures a consistent standard of quality across different aircraft systems. It demonstrates a partnership that has matured over time, evolving to meet the growing and changing needs of the airline.
The collaboration is a reflection of the value and trust built over the years. Ziad Al-Hazmi, Chief Executive Officer at Lufthansa Technik Middle East, emphasized this point, stating, “Our collaboration with Air Arabia reflects the value we bring to our customers. It is truly a testament to their trust and confidence in our services.” This sentiment highlights the importance of a strong working relationship in the high-stakes aviation sector, where technical excellence and mutual confidence are non-negotiable. The expanded partnership between Air Arabia and Lufthansa Technik is more than a transactional agreement; it is a strategic alliance that provides long-term stability and operational assurance for the airline. By securing comprehensive MRO services for its engines and key components until 2033, Air Arabia can better navigate the complexities of fleet management, allowing it to focus on growth and service delivery in a competitive market. This long-term view is crucial for sustainable success in the LCC sector.
For Lufthansa Technik, this agreement solidifies its position as a leading MRO provider in the strategically important Middle East region. The deal, announced amidst other significant contracts at the Dubai Airshow, underscores the company’s successful strategy of building lasting, value-based relationships with its airline partners. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, such deep-seated collaborations, built on a decade of proven performance and mutual trust, will be instrumental in shaping a reliable and efficient future for air travel.
Question: What does the new agreement between Air Arabia and Lufthansa Technik cover? Question: How long will this partnership last? Question: Where will the engine maintenance be performed? Sources: Lufthansa Technik
A Decade of Trust: Air Arabia and Lufthansa Technik Deepen MRO Partnership
Bolstering the Heart of the Fleet: CFM56-5B Engine Services
Expanding on a Proven Partnership: Component and Radome Repairs
A Strategic Alliance for the Future
FAQ
Answer: The new long-term agreement primarily covers comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the CFM56-5B engines of Air Arabia’s 43 Airbus A320ceo aircraft. It also includes a five-year extension for nose radome repairs for the airline’s current and future fleet.
Answer: The engine MRO services contract is set to run until 2033, marking a significant long-term commitment from both parties.
Answer: The engine services will be carried out at Lufthansa Technik’s specialized engine workshop located in Hamburg, Germany.
Photo Credit: Air Arabia
MRO & Manufacturing
Embraer Expands Manufacturing and Supply Chain in India with Adani and Mahindra
Embraer deepens its industrial presence in India through partnerships with Adani and Mahindra to develop aircraft assembly and defense manufacturing.
This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.
Embraer has announced a significant expansion of its industrial presence in India, marking a strategic shift from aircraft sales to deep-rooted manufacturing partnerships. In early February 2026, the Brazilian aerospace giant confirmed it is advancing its supply chain development within the country, solidifying agreements that align with the Indian government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
According to the company’s official statement, these developments include a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Adani Defence & Aerospace and continued cooperation with Mahindra for defense programs. The initiatives aim to establish a comprehensive “regional transport aircraft ecosystem” in India, covering everything from final assembly lines (FAL) to local supplier integration.
This move positions Embraer to better compete in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets by leveraging local engineering talent and meeting New Delhi’s requirements for technology transfer and domestic production.
A central pillar of Embraer’s strategy involves its new partnership with Adani Defence & Aerospace. The companies signed an MoU in early 2026 with the objective of creating a robust infrastructure for regional transport aircraft. Embraer stated that this collaboration is designed to support the Indian government’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which seeks to enhance connectivity between Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Key elements of the Adani partnership include:
By localizing these capabilities, Embraer aims to offer a more competitive value proposition for Indian carriers looking to expand their regional fleets with efficient jet aircraft.
On the defense front, Embraer is reinforcing its collaboration with Mahindra Defence Systems. The two companies have reaffirmed their Strategic Cooperation Agreement (SCA) to offer the C-390 Millennium for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program.
The IAF is currently seeking to replace its aging fleet of Antonov An-32s, with a procurement requirement estimated between 40 and 80 aircraft. Embraer has committed to setting up a manufacturing line in India if the C-390 is selected, effectively making the country a regional hub for the military transport platform. To support these ambitious manufacturing goals, a delegation of senior Embraer executives, led by Roberto Chaves, Executive VP of Global Procurement & Supply Chain, visited India in early February 2026. The delegation’s mission was to evaluate and onboard Indian suppliers capable of meeting Embraer’s global quality standards.
According to the press release, the company is specifically looking for partners in:
“India is a key partner in shaping the future of aerospace, and we are dedicated to building sustainable cooperation that supports both the domestic industrial base and global initiatives.”
, Roberto Chaves, Executive VP of Global Procurement & Supply Chain, Embraer
We view this development as a critical pivot in Embraer’s global strategy. Historically, Western OEMs have viewed India primarily as a sales market. However, the “Make in India” policy has forced a change in tactics, requiring manufacturers to invest in local industrial capacity to win lucrative government contracts.
By partnering with two of India’s largest conglomerates, Adani and Mahindra, Embraer is effectively hedging its bets across civil and defense sectors. The Adani deal targets the booming commercial regional travel market, while the Mahindra alliance addresses the strategic defense needs of the IAF. This dual approach distinguishes Embraer from competitors who may focus heavily on just one sector.
Furthermore, diversifying the supply chain into India reduces Embraer’s reliance on traditional markets and allows it to tap into a cost-effective, high-skilled engineering workforce. This is essential as the company ramps up production to meet global demand for its E2 jets and C-390 military transports.
Embraer already maintains a significant presence in the region. According to industry data cited in reports surrounding the announcement, approximately 44 to 50 Embraer aircraft are currently operating in India. This fleet spans commercial aviation (such as Star Air’s E175 fleet), executive jets, and defense assets.
Notably, the Indian Air-Forces operates three Netra AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft, which are built upon Embraer’s ERJ145 platform. The success of the Netra program provides a strong precedent for future defense collaborations between Embraer and Indian defense agencies. Sources: Embraer Press Release
Embraer Deepens Industrial Footprint in India with Strategic Supply Chain and Manufacturing Agreements
Building a Civil Aviation Ecosystem with Adani
Defense Ambitions: The C-390 Millennium
Supply Chain Delegation
AirPro News Analysis
Current Market Footprint
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer
MRO & Manufacturing
Bombardier Acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions to Expand US Service Network
Bombardier acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions, adding a Delaware facility and mobile repair units to enhance its U.S. aftermarket services.
On February 9, 2026, Bombardier announced the acquisition of Velocity Maintenance Solutions, a specialized provider of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services based in Wilmington, Delaware. The transaction, executed through Bombardier’s U.S. subsidiary Learjet Inc., represents a strategic expansion of the manufacturer’s aftermarket footprint in the high-traffic Northeast corridor.
The acquisition provides Bombardier with immediate access to a 35,000-square-foot facility at New Castle Airport (ILG) and a fleet of mobile repair units designed for rapid response. While financial terms of the deal remain confidential, the move aligns with the company’s stated objective to grow its services revenue and secure a stronger domestic presence in the United States.
According to the company’s official statement, the acquisition is designed to bolster support for Bombardier’s growing fleet of business jets, including the ultra-long-range Global 8000. By integrating Velocity Maintenance Solutions, Bombardier aims to capture more of the lifecycle maintenance market, a sector that offers stable margins compared to the cyclical nature of aircraft sales.
The deal includes significant physical and operational assets that will be integrated into Bombardier’s service network:
Paul Sislian, Executive Vice President of Bombardier Aftermarket Services, highlighted the cultural fit between the two organizations in the press release.
“Velocity Maintenance Solutions’ capabilities and customer-focused culture make it an excellent fit for Bombardier… This acquisition is part of our commitment to continually elevate our service standards.”
Velocity Maintenance Solutions has established itself as an agile player in the MRO space since its emergence around 2021. As an FAA Part 145 Repair Station, the company is authorized to perform scheduled maintenance, structural repairs, and avionics upgrades.
Prior to the acquisition, Velocity serviced a diverse range of aircraft, including models from Embraer, Dassault Falcon, Gulfstream, and Textron, in addition to Bombardier jets. The facility is known for its 24/7 emergency support capabilities, a critical service for business jet operators requiring immediate dispatch reliability.
This acquisition arrives during a complex period for the aerospace industry, characterized by both consolidation and geopolitical friction. By executing the purchase through Learjet Inc., a heritage U.S. brand based in Wichita, Kansas, Bombardier reinforces its status as a significant U.S. employer. This distinction is increasingly vital as the company navigates trade tensions, including recent tariff threats from the U.S. administration regarding Canadian aerospace products.
Expanding physical infrastructure within the United States serves a dual purpose: it insulates the company’s service supply chain from potential cross-border friction and strengthens its eligibility for U.S. defense contracts. Furthermore, in an industry facing a chronic shortage of skilled labor, acquiring a “turnkey” operation with a certified workforce allows Bombardier to bypass the long lead times associated with recruiting and training new technicians. The location in Wilmington also places Bombardier in direct competition with other major service providers at New Castle Airport, including a Dassault Falcon service center, signaling an aggressive push to dominate the Northeast service market.
The acquisition was made by Learjet Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of Bombardier.
The existing team of technicians and support staff at Velocity Maintenance Solutions will be retained and integrated into Bombardier’s workforce.
While the press release emphasizes support for Bombardier’s fleet, Velocity has historically serviced various manufacturers. OEMs often honor existing third-party contracts during transition periods, though the long-term focus typically shifts to the parent company’s products.
Bombardier Acquires Velocity Maintenance Solutions to Densify U.S. Service Network
Expanding the Aftermarket Ecosystem
Target Profile: Velocity Maintenance Solutions
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic and Political Context
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the acquiring entity?
What happens to the current workforce?
Will Velocity continue to service non-Bombardier aircraft?
Sources
Photo Credit: Velocity Maintenance Solutions
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
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