UAMCO and Safran Partner to Build LEAP Engine Test Facility in Cyprus

Strategic Agreement Marks Major Milestone for Cyprus Aviation Sector

United Aerospace Maintenance Company (UAMCO) Ltd has officially announced a strategic agreement with Safran Test Cells to design and construct a new engine test facility in Larnaca, Cyprus. This development represents a pivotal moment for the independent Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector in the Eastern Mediterranean. The collaboration focuses on establishing a state-of-the-art testing environment dedicated to the CFM International LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines, which power the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX families respectively.

The aviation industry is currently navigating a complex landscape defined by supply chain constraints and high demand for engine maintenance. As next-generation engines require servicing earlier than initially projected, particularly those operating in harsh environments, the global capacity for MRO services has been stretched thin. This agreement positions UAMCO to directly address these bottlenecks by expanding its capabilities from “quick-turn” maintenance to full engine overhaul services.

By partnering with Safran Test Cells, a subsidiary of Safran Aero Boosters and a world leader in aero-engine test facilities, UAMCO secures access to industry-standard technology. This infrastructure is a prerequisite for obtaining the necessary certifications to perform full performance restoration shop visits. We view this move as a significant step toward establishing Cyprus as a critical node in the global aviation support network, connecting Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Facility Specifications and Operational Timeline

The new test cell will be located near UAMCO’s existing engine shop in the Larnaca Free Trade Zone. According to the project scope, the facility is designed to handle approximately 250 engine tests per year. This capacity addition is substantial for the region, offering airlines a viable alternative to overcrowded MRO shops in Western Europe and North America. The design prioritizes versatility, ensuring compatibility with both the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engine variants.

Construction is currently underway, with a targeted completion date set for December 2026. Following the physical construction, the facility will undergo a rigorous calibration and certification process. Full operational commissioning by CFM International is targeted for the first quarter of 2027. Once active, this facility will allow UAMCO to validate engine performance post-overhaul, a critical final step in the maintenance process that ensures engines are safe to return to service.

In alignment with broader aviation industry goals regarding decarbonization, the test cell is being engineered with Sustainability in mind. The facility will be fully capable of running engines using SAF in addition to standard Jet A-1 fuel. This future-proofing ensures that the infrastructure remains relevant as airlines increasingly adopt greener fuel alternatives to meet regulatory and corporate environmental targets.

“Our target and vision is to not have a single engine part leave Cyprus… As our capacity is higher, our target in the next two years is to reach 36-48 engines [inducted per year].”, John Savvides, CEO of UAMCO.

Addressing the Global Capacity Crunch

The strategic significance of this project extends beyond the borders of Cyprus. The global fleet of narrowbody aircraft relies heavily on the LEAP engine platform. However, durability issues in sandy and hot operating environments have accelerated the need for shop visits, creating a backlog that major MRO providers are struggling to clear. By adding 250 annual test slots to the global network, this facility helps alleviate the pressure on airlines, particularly those based in the Middle East and Europe.

Currently, UAMCO holds EASA Part-145 approval for “quick-turn” services, which include on-wing support and module replacements. While these services are essential for minor repairs, they do not cover the deep overhaul work required for aging engines. The construction of this test cell is the technological bridge that will allow the company to transition into full performance restoration. This evolution is critical for keeping high-value maintenance work within the region rather than outsourcing it to distant facilities.

It is also important to distinguish the corporate identity of the entities involved in this expansion. United Aerospace Maintenance Company (UAMCO) Ltd is a Cyprus-based independent provider founded recently to serve this specific market niche. We note that while UAMCO has commercial relationships with carriers in the region, such as servicing engines for the Saudi carrier Flynas, it is a distinct legal entity from United Aircraft Maintenance (UAM), which is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Concluding Perspectives

The agreement between UAMCO and Safran Test Cells signals a maturation of the aviation infrastructure in Cyprus. By securing the capability to test and certify the world’s most popular narrowbody engines, UAMCO is moving to secure a long-term position in the global aerospace supply chain. The capital investment, estimated in the context of a broader €100 million facility expansion, underscores the confidence in the continued demand for LEAP engine maintenance.

Looking ahead to 2027, the successful commissioning of this facility will likely reduce grounding times for partner airlines and provide a necessary pressure release valve for the MRO industry. As the fleet of A320neo and 737 MAX aircraft continues to grow, the availability of independent, high-capacity maintenance hubs will remain a decisive factor in airline operational efficiency.

FAQ

Question: What is the primary purpose of the new UAMCO facility?
Answer: The new facility is an engine test cell designed to test and certify CFM International LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines after maintenance or overhaul.

Question: When will the test cell be operational?
Answer: Construction is expected to be completed by December 2026, with full operational commissioning targeted for the first quarter of 2027.

Question: How many engines can the facility test annually?
Answer: The facility is designed with a capacity to perform approximately 250 engine tests per year.

Question: Is UAMCO the same company as UAM in Saudi Arabia?
Answer: No. United Aerospace Maintenance Company (UAMCO) Ltd is based in Larnaca, Cyprus. It is a separate entity from United Aircraft Maintenance (UAM), which is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Sources

• UAMCO Press Release