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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.

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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.

Securing Maintenance Capacity

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.

Strategic Rationale: The Shift to Insourcing

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.

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AirPro News analysis

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.

About Adria Tehnika

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.

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Photo Credit: easyJet

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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.

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AerFin Releases 6,000 A320neo Components to Combat Global Supply Chain Strain

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.

Sourcing the Airframes: A Strategic Acquisition

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.

Executive Commentary

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.”

Global Logistics and Distribution Network

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.

AirPro News Analysis

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.

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific parts are available in this inventory?
The inventory includes over 6,000 line items, ranging from major structural assemblies, nacelles, and landing gears to APUs and various rotable components.
Where did the dismantled aircraft come from?
Four aircraft were ex-Go First airframes acquired in partnership with a Middle Eastern investor, and one was acquired from EMP Aviation Trading.
Where is the inventory located?
Parts are stocked globally in Newport and Gatwick (UK), Singapore (Asia-Pacific), and Miami (Americas).

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Photo Credit: AerFin

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MRO & Manufacturing

AMMROC and AOI Partner to Localize Aerospace Manufacturing at EDEX 2025

AMMROC and Egypt’s AOI signed agreements at EDEX 2025 to enhance aerospace manufacturing, engine maintenance, and helicopter systems sustainment.

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This article is based on official announcements from AMMROC at EDEX 2025.

AMMROC and AOI Sign Strategic Agreements at EDEX 2025 to Localize Aerospace Manufacturing

Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul Center (AMMROC), a leader in military aviation MRO based in the United Arab Emirates, has formally entered a new phase of regional collaboration. During the Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX 2025) in Cairo, AMMROC signed three strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI), Egypt’s largest defense conglomerate.

The agreements, signed on December 2, 2025, at the Egyptian Pavilion, aim to localize defense manufacturing and enhance operational readiness for military fleets in both nations. The partnership focuses on three critical verticals: aircraft manufacturing, engine maintenance, and helicopter systems. This move underscores a growing trend of industrial integration between the UAE and Egypt, leveraging AOI’s established infrastructure and AMMROC’s specialized technical expertise.

The signing ceremony was attended by high-level officials, including H.E. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Tawazun Council, and H.E. Mahmoud Al Hameli, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Aviation. The agreements were executed by Mr. Jasem Al Marzouqi, CEO of AMMROC, and Major General Engineer Mukhtar Abdel Latif, Chairman of the AOI.

Scope of the Strategic Partnership

According to official announcements released during the expo, the collaboration is structured around three distinct agreements, each targeting a specific facility within the AOI’s industrial network.

1. Aircraft Manufacturing and Development

The first MoU involves the AOI Aircraft Factory. The scope of this agreement includes the development, manufacturing, and marketing of components for fixed-wing aircraft, jets, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). A key objective is to align AOI’s production lines with AMMROC’s existing programs, effectively establishing dedicated manufacturing cells in Egypt to support the regional supply chain.

2. Engine MRO and Digital Manufacturing

The second agreement focuses on the AOI Engine Factory. This collaboration aims to enhance capabilities in the overhaul, repair, and manufacturing of engine parts. The partnership will utilize a Digital Manufacturing Center to produce high-precision components, such as rotating parts, housings, and shafts. It also facilitates knowledge transfer regarding advanced engine treatment processes, a critical requirement for modern military aviation sustainment.

3. Helicopter Systems Sustainment

The third MoU targets the Helwan Factory, focusing specifically on helicopter systems. The agreement outlines plans to develop joint upgrade programs, enhance structural repair capabilities, and implement technical training initiatives to support helicopter fleet readiness across the region.

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Leadership Perspectives

Executives from both sides emphasized that these agreements represent more than just a commercial transaction; they signal a long-term commitment to knowledge transfer and industrial sovereignty.

In a statement regarding the partnership, Jasem Al Marzouqi, CEO of AMMROC, highlighted the shared vision between the two entities:

“The signing of three strategic MoUs with the Arab Organisation for Industrialisation reinforces our shared vision with our partners in Egypt to advance industrial capabilities, transfer knowledge, and expand bilateral cooperation in aviation and defence.”

, Jasem Al Marzouqi, CEO of AMMROC

Mahmoud Al Hameli, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Aviation, AMMROC’s parent company, noted the strategic value of Egypt’s industrial base:

“Integrating strengths with expertise supports long-term collaboration efforts through AMMROC’s ecosystem… expanding regional partnerships in Egypt is strategic due to its potential and advanced capabilities.”

, Mahmoud Al Hameli, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Aviation

Representing the UAE’s defense acquisition authority, H.E. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi of the Tawazun Council described the deal as a “crucial step in advancing industrial integration between the UAE and Egypt,” emphasizing the goal of building capabilities rooted in modern technology.

AirPro News Analysis

The Shift Toward Regional “Technonationalism”

We view this partnership as a significant indicator of the shifting defense landscape in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Nations in the region are aggressively moving away from a pure import model toward “technonationalism”, the strategy of localizing defense technology and manufacturing to ensure sovereignty and reduce reliance on non-regional powers.

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For AMMROC, this is a clear expansion play. By tapping into Egypt’s AOI, which boasts a massive industrial workforce and over 12 factories, AMMROC can scale its operations beyond its Al Ain headquarters. This allows the company to service a broader range of North African clients effectively. For Egypt, the deal injects critical modernization techniques and digital manufacturing processes into its legacy infrastructure, ensuring its defense industry remains competitive in the 21st century.

About the Entities

AMMROC (Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul Center) is headquartered in Al Ain, UAE. It is the region’s only dedicated military MRO center capable of servicing a wide array of platforms, including the C-130, F-16, and Black Hawk helicopters. It operates under the Abu Dhabi Aviation Group.

The Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) was established in 1975 and serves as the backbone of Egypt’s defense industry. While originally a pan-Arab initiative, it is now fully Egyptian-owned and comprises a vast network of industrial complexes producing defense and civilian equipment.


Sources: AMMROC Official Announcements, Arab Organization for Industrialization, EDEX 2025

Photo Credit: AMMROC

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Airbus H160 Completes Demo Tour in Australia for Emergency Services

Airbus Helicopters showcased the H160 in Australia targeting emergency services with advanced avionics, 475 nm range, and multi-role capabilities.

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This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.

Airbus H160 Completes Australian Demo Tour Targeting HEMS Market

Helicopters has concluded a four-week demonstration tour of its H160 medium-twin helicopter across Australia, explicitly targeting the region’s evolving emergency services sector. According to an official press release from the manufacturer, the tour visited major hubs including Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane to showcase the aircraft’s capabilities to local Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) providers and government officials.

The manufacturer is positioning the H160 as a “next-generation response” to what it terms “next-level emergencies.” As outlined in the company’s statement, these challenges include increasingly severe natural disasters, the need for longer-range inter-hospital transfers, and the demand for higher-quality in-flight medical care. The tour, which took place in late 2025, aimed to demonstrate how the H160’s technical specifications align with the unique geographical and operational demands of the Australian continent.

Addressing the “Tyranny of Distance”

A central theme of the demonstration tour was the aircraft’s suitability for Australia’s vast geography. Airbus highlights the H160’s range of 475 nautical miles (880 km) as a critical differentiator. This range capability allows for direct inter-hospital transfers between major cities, such as Brisbane to Sydney, or long-range offshore rescue missions without the need for frequent refueling stops.

Christian Venzal, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters Australia & New Zealand, emphasized the specific alignment between the aircraft’s design and local requirements in the company’s release:

“Australia’s geography places unique demands on HEMS operators… The H160 raises the standard of care with its extended range, increased payload, and significantly quieter sound profile.”

In addition to range, the manufacturer promoted the aircraft’s versatility. With Australia facing frequent floods and bushfires, operators often require multi-role assets. Airbus states that the H160 can be quickly reconfigured to switch between HEMS, Search and Rescue (SAR), and disaster management roles, offering operational flexibility to state emergency services.

Technical Capabilities and Patient Care

The H160 incorporates several technologies designed to improve safety and patient outcomes. According to the provided technical data, the aircraft features Blue Edge™ rotor blades, which Airbus claims reduce noise levels by 50% compared to previous generation aircraft. This reduction is particularly relevant for operations over densely populated urban centers like Sydney and Melbourne.

Furthermore, the aircraft is equipped with the Helionix avionics suite. This system is designed to reduce pilot workload through advanced automation, including a “recovery mode” that can automatically stabilize the aircraft if a pilot becomes disoriented, a safety feature pitched as vital for night missions or poor weather conditions.

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Focus on Medical Interiors

For medical crews, the stability of the platform is paramount. Feedback from the demo tour suggests that the H160 offers low vibration levels, which facilitates delicate in-flight medical procedures. The cabin is marketed as an “intensive care unit in the sky,” with large windows and a stable flight profile intended to reduce crew fatigue.

Olivier Michalon, EVP Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, described the platform’s dual focus on technology and environment:

“The H160 represents the future of flight… combining advanced technology, mission versatility and reduced environmental impact in one sleek platform.”

Market Context and Efficiency

The Australian HEMS and SAR market is currently dominated by the Leonardo AW139. Airbus is attempting to challenge this incumbency by offering what it describes as “light twin economics” with “medium twin performance.” The H160 is powered by Safran Arrano engines, which the manufacturer states offer 15-18% lower fuel consumption than competitors. Additionally, the aircraft is certified to fly with a blend of up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Launch partner PHI Aviation, a major operator in the energy and mining sectors, has already committed to the H160. During the tour, PHI Aviation representatives noted the aircraft’s suitability for both offshore transport and emergency medical services, validating its potential in the Australian market.

AirPro News Analysis

The H160’s entry into Australia represents a significant strategic push by Airbus to reclaim market share in the medium-twin segment. For years, the AW139 has been the workhorse for Australian state rescue services and commercial operators. By focusing on “next-generation” avionics and fuel efficiency, Airbus is betting that operators are ready to transition to a more digitized platform.

However, the challenge remains substantial. Incumbent fleets benefit from established supply chains, pilot training pipelines, and maintenance infrastructure. The success of the H160 in Australia will likely depend not just on its technical specs, but on Airbus’s ability to demonstrate reliable support and cost-effectiveness over the lifecycle of the airframe compared to the proven track record of its competitors.

Sources:

Photo Credit: Airbus

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