AAR CORP. Extends Exclusive Global Distribution for Collins Aerospace Goodrich De-Icing Systems

This article is based on an official press release from AAR CORP. and includes financial data from public earnings reports.

On December 9, 2025, AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR) announced a multi-year extension of its exclusive global distribution agreement with Collins Aerospace, a business of RTX (NYSE: RTX). Under the renewed terms, AAR will continue to serve as the sole global distributor for the Goodrich de-icing and specialty systems product line, supporting a wide range of commercial, general aviation, and defense operators.

This extension reinforces a strategic Partnerships that was originally solidified in March 2022. By leveraging AAR’s extensive logistics network, Collins Aerospace aims to maintain high service levels for critical safety components while streamlining its aftermarket operations. The agreement covers the distribution of de-icers, heating systems, and associated maintenance products to a global customer base.

Partnership Details and Executive Commentary

According to the company’s official statement, the agreement encompasses the entire portfolio of Goodrich de-icing and specialty systems. AAR’s role involves managing inventory and executing “last-mile” delivery to operators and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities worldwide. The continuation of this exclusive arrangement suggests that the initial 2022 partnership successfully met its targets for market reach and customer responsiveness.

In the press release regarding the extension, Frank Landrio, Senior Vice President of Distribution at AAR CORP., highlighted the operational success of the collaboration:

“AAR is proud to continue delivering availability, responsiveness, and technical support to the wide range of customers who rely on Collins Aerospace Goodrich de-icing solutions. Our execution and ability to gain market share have resulted in tremendous growth of this product line.”

— Frank Landrio, Senior Vice President of Distribution, AAR CORP.

Scope of the Goodrich Product Line

The Goodrich brand, a legacy name in aviation safety now under the Collins Aerospace umbrella, is widely recognized for its ice-protection technologies. Based on product catalogs and the scope of the distribution agreement, AAR will manage the supply chain for several key technologies essential for flight safety in adverse weather.

Pneumatic and Electrothermal Systems

The distribution agreement covers pneumatic de-icers, commonly known as “boots,” which are rubber devices installed on the leading edges of wings and stabilizers. These systems inflate to crack and shed ice accumulation. Specific products in this category include:

• FASTboot®: A patented system featuring pre-applied adhesive, designed to significantly reduce installation time and allow aircraft to return to service immediately.
• SILVERboot™: A silver-colored de-icer developed to blend aesthetically with polished aluminum wings while offering robust durability.

Additionally, the agreement includes electrothermal systems such as DuraTherm®, which utilizes heating elements to prevent ice buildup on propellers, rotors, and engine inlets. Support components, including windshield heat controllers, wiper systems, and specialized maintenance products like ShineMaster™, are also part of the exclusive distribution inventory.

Financial and Strategic Context

This contract extension arrives during a period of strong financial performance for AAR CORP., particularly within its supply chain operations. In its fiscal first quarter of 2026 (reported in September 2025), AAR posted total sales of $740 million, a 12% increase year-over-year. The “Parts Supply” segment, which houses distribution agreements like the one with Collins Aerospace, was a primary driver of this success, recording 27% organic sales growth.

AirPro News Analysis

The renewal of this exclusive agreement underscores a broader trend in the aerospace aftermarket: the shift by Original Equipment OEMs toward outsourced distribution models. For major Manufacturers like Collins Aerospace (RTX), partnering with specialists like AAR allows them to offload the complexities of global inventory management and small-volume logistics. This enables the OEM to focus capital and resources on R&D and manufacturing.

For AAR, securing long-term exclusivity on high-volume, consumable safety products like de-icing boots provides a recurring revenue stream that is less volatile than heavy maintenance cycles. The 27% growth in their Parts Supply segment suggests that this strategy of aggregating OEM distribution rights is yielding tangible financial results. We expect AAR to continue pursuing similar exclusive “tip-to-tail” distribution contracts to further consolidate its position as a critical intermediary in the aviation supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective date of the extended agreement?

The extension was announced on December 9, 2025. It builds upon a previous exclusive agreement signed in March 2022.

Which market sectors does this agreement cover?

AAR has exclusive global distribution rights for the Goodrich de-icing line across all major sectors, including Airlines, general aviation, and defense/military operators.

What specific products are included?

The agreement covers Goodrich pneumatic de-icers (boots), electrothermal heating systems (propellers, rotors), windshield heat controllers, and associated maintenance products.

Sources

• AAR CORP. Press Release (Dec 9, 2025)
• AAR CORP. Investor Relations (Q1 FY2026 Data)