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)

Safran Inaugurates First Electrical Manufacturing Hub in Singapore

Safran Electrical & Power has officially opened a new production and maintenance facility in Singapore, marking a significant expansion of its industrial footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. The inauguration, held on December 9, 2025, at Seletar Aerospace Park, represents a strategic shift for the company as it introduces manufacturing capabilities to a region previously focused on service and support.

According to the company’s press release, the new site is located at 7 Seletar Aerospace Lane and spans 2,800 square meters. It is dedicated to both the manufacturing and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) of critical aerospace electrical equipment. This development follows Safran’s acquisition of Thales’ aeronautical electrical systems business in October 2023, a move that consolidated electrical activities under the Safran umbrella.

Facility Capabilities and Workforce

The newly inaugurated facility is fully operational, having received necessary approvals from major airworthiness authorities, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The site currently employs 70 people.

Safran states that the facility’s dual scope covers:

• Manufacturing: Production of electric motors, starters, and rectifiers.
• MRO Services: Maintenance of power conversion and distribution equipment, as well as aircraft batteries.

This site is Safran Electrical & Power’s first facility in Singapore to include a manufacturing line, distinguishing it from the company’s other operations in the city-state which have historically focused on MRO and support services.

Strategic Regional Importance

The establishment of this facility underscores Singapore’s role as a central node in the global aerospace supply chain. Bruno Bellanger, CEO of Safran Electrical & Power, emphasized the location’s importance in a statement regarding the opening.

“I am very pleased to inaugurate this new industrial facility, which embodies our commitment to competitiveness, innovation and excellence. We chose Singapore because it is an essential hub both economically and industrially… This site allows us to be as close as possible to our local customers, providing them with cutting-edge electrical solutions and services.”

, Bruno Bellanger, CEO of Safran Electrical & Power

The facility serves a robust portfolio of clients in the region, including major manufacturers like Airbus, Boeing, and ATR, as well as airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Air China, and Japan Airlines.

Market Outlook and Electrification

The opening of the Seletar facility aligns with broader industry trends toward the “More-Electric Aircraft” (MEA). As aviation moves toward decarbonization, the demand for advanced electrical systems, capable of managing higher power loads for non-propulsive systems, is expected to grow.

Jacqueline Poh, CEO of JTC Corporation, the developer behind Seletar Aerospace Park, highlighted this alignment in the official announcement:

“With the growth of More-Electric Aircraft (MEA) and electrification, SEP’s new facility positions the sector for future opportunities in aircraft electrification and advanced propulsion, supporting Singapore’s decarbonisation plans for the aviation sector.”

, Jacqueline Poh, CEO of JTC Corporation

Looking ahead, Safran projects significant growth for the new site. CEO Bruno Bellanger indicated that the facility’s output is expected to increase by 30% to 50% over the next five years, driven by the rising demand for electrical power conversion and distribution systems.

AirPro News Analysis

The inauguration of this facility signals a maturing of the aerospace supply chain in Southeast Asia. By moving beyond simple component repair into active manufacturing, Safran is effectively shortening its supply chain for Asian customers. This proximity is crucial as the industry faces ongoing logistical challenges and a backlog in aircraft deliveries.

Furthermore, the integration of the former Thales electrical assets appears to be accelerating Safran’s ability to scale its electrical division. Rather than building from scratch, utilizing the consolidated assets allows for immediate operational capability, evidenced by the site already holding CAAS, EASA, and FAA certifications upon inauguration. For Singapore, this reinforces the “Aerospace Industry Transformation Map 2025,” ensuring the city-state remains a high-value manufacturing hub rather than just a transit point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the new facility located?

The facility is located at 7 Seletar Aerospace Lane within the Seletar Aerospace Park in Singapore.

What is the primary function of the new site?

It is a dual-purpose facility focused on both the manufacturing and maintenance (MRO) of aerospace electrical systems, including motors, batteries, and power distribution equipment.

How many people does Safran employ in Singapore?

With this new facility, Safran Group employs approximately 900 people across five production and maintenance sites in Singapore.

Sources: Safran Group

This article is based on an official press release from Täby Air Maintenance AB (TAM).

TAM Secures EASA Approval for Saab 2000 Cargo Conversion

Täby Air Maintenance AB (TAM), a Swedish maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) specialist, has officially announced the receipt of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its Saab 2000 cargo conversion program. This regulatory milestone allows the company to begin converting the high-speed regional turboprop into a dedicated freighter, expanding its portfolio beyond the widely utilized Saab 340 cargo program.

According to the company’s announcement, the conversion project was developed in close collaboration with launch customer Jetstream Aviation Capital. Based in Miami, Jetstream is the largest global owner of both Saab 340 and Saab 2000 aircraft. The partnership aims to introduce a freighter that bridges the operational gap between standard turboprops and regional jets, offering a unique combination of speed and efficiency.

With EASA approval secured, TAM has stated that an application for validation by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has already been submitted. This step is critical for the launch customer to deploy the aircraft within the North American cargo feeder market.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

The newly approved Saab 2000 freighter is designed to maximize internal volume while maintaining the aircraft’s signature performance characteristics. TAM’s engineering team has focused on creating a robust cargo environment suitable for high-frequency logistics operations.

Cargo Configuration and Payload

Data provided by TAM indicates that the converted aircraft offers a total cargo volume of 55.4 cubic meters (1,960 cubic feet). The conversion involves stripping the passenger cabin to install a Class E cargo compartment featuring six net-divided loading bays. A key structural upgrade is the installation of a strengthened carbon fiber floor equipped with an integrated roller ball loading system to facilitate rapid ground handling.

In terms of weight capacity, the aircraft boasts a maximum payload of 6,622 kg (14,600 lbs). However, for operators targeting the United States market, regulatory nuances apply. As noted in technical reports regarding US FAR Part 135 operations, the payload is effectively limited to approximately 3,402 kg (7,500 lbs) to comply with specific operational certificates.

Performance Metrics

The Saab 2000 is distinct in the turboprop market due to its speed. The freighter variant retains a cruise speed of approximately 370 knots (685 km/h). According to TAM, this represents a speed advantage of roughly 30% over the smaller Saab 340 freighter. This performance allows operators to decrease sector times and extend their operational range, making the aircraft suitable for time-critical logistics that require faster delivery than a standard ATR 72 but lower operating costs than a jet.

Market Positioning and Strategic Context

The introduction of the Saab 2000 freighter comes at a time of shifting dynamics in the regional Cargo-Aircraft sector. By leveraging the existing airframes, TAM and Jetstream Aviation Capital are targeting a specific niche often referred to as “thin” routes,logistics lanes with lower volumes that demand high speed.

Corporate Developments

This announcement follows significant corporate changes at TAM. In October 2025, the company was acquired by Lars Wingefors AB, a private investment firm, from its previous owner Erik Thun AB. The new ownership structure places TAM alongside Sola Air, a regional airline also owned by Lars Wingefors. In public statements, the new ownership has expressed a commitment to long-term vertical integration, combining MRO capabilities with leasing and airline operations.

“The Saab 2000 Cargo Conversion is designed to maximize volume and payload while retaining the aircraft’s signature high-speed performance.”

, TAM Press Release

AirPro News Analysis

We observe that while the Saab 2000 freighter offers impressive specs, it enters a naturally constrained market. Only 63 Saab 2000 airframes were originally produced, meaning this program will never reach the mass-market scale of the ATR 72 freighter conversions. However, scarcity can drive value. The “Concordino” of freighters, as the Saab 2000 is sometimes called, fills a vital role for express carriers who need to cover longer distances within tight overnight windows,missions where a standard turboprop is too slow, but a CRJ200 freighter burns too much fuel.

The involvement of Jetstream Aviation Capital is the linchpin of this program. As the primary holder of the fleet, their ability to place these converted assets with operators in North-America and Europe will determine the program’s commercial success. The pending FAA approval is the next major hurdle; without it, the largest potential market for these “high-speed turboprops” remains inaccessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum payload of the Saab 2000 freighter?

The aircraft has a maximum structural payload of 6,622 kg (14,600 lbs). However, US operators flying under FAR Part 135 are limited to approximately 3,402 kg (7,500 lbs).

How does the Saab 2000 compare to the Saab 340 freighter?

The Saab 2000 is significantly larger and faster, offering approximately 30% higher cruise speeds (~370 knots) and increased volume compared to the Saab 340.

Is the aircraft approved for flight in the United States?

Not yet. While EASA (European) approval has been granted, TAM has submitted an application for FAA validation, which is currently pending.

Sources

• TAM Official Announcement