This article is based on an official press release from Averna and Curtiss-Wright.

Curtiss-Wright and Averna Partner to Develop Next-Generation Aerospace Test Systems

Averna, a global leader in test and quality solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Curtiss-Wright’s Sensors & Actuation division to develop five custom aerospace test systems. Announced on March 3, 2026, this collaboration aims to support the development and qualification of Curtiss-Wright’s next-generation electromechanical actuators (MEA), a critical component in the aviation industry’s shift toward more electric aircraft architectures.

According to the official announcement, the partnership is designed to meet stringent performance and safety requirements while maintaining high manufacturing efficiency. The initiative comes as Curtiss-Wright seeks to scale its production capabilities for high-performance actuation systems used in commercial and defense aerospace sectors.

Scope of the Collaboration

The agreement focuses on the delivery of five distinct test systems that span the product lifecycle, from Research & Development (R&D) to mass production. While the specific proprietary names of the systems were not disclosed in the initial release, industry reporting indicates these systems are engineered to address the complex demands of modern flight control technology.

According to details released regarding the partnership, the systems are expected to address several critical testing phases:

• Dynamic Load & Fatigue Testing: Simulating extreme physical forces to ensure actuators can withstand flight conditions, essential for components like the Exlar FTX Series.
• Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Simulation: Validating software reliability by simulating flight data for the actuator’s digital controller.
• Environmental Stress Screening (ESS): Subjecting units to extreme temperatures and vibrations to ensure compliance with aerospace standards such as DO-160.
• End-of-Line (EOL) Functional Testing: Automated final checks to verify manufacturing quality before delivery.
• Secure Data Management: A centralized platform ensuring full traceability and ITAR compliance for sensitive test data.

Brian Couch, Segment Manager for Aerospace & Defense at Averna, highlighted the technical depth of the solution in a statement regarding the deal.

“Our solution includes a customized framework, secure data management, and full integration with Curtiss-Wright’s manufacturing execution systems.”

Brian Couch, Segment Manager – Aerospace & Defense, Averna

Strategic Context: The Shift to Electromechanical Actuation

This partnership underscores a broader trend in the aerospace sector: the transition from traditional hydraulic systems to electromechanical actuators (MEA). MEAs offer significant weight savings and reliability improvements, contributing to “greener” aviation technologies. However, these systems require rigorous testing protocols that differ significantly from hydraulic predecessors, necessitating precise electrical power analysis and software validation.

Bret Sprague, Vice President and General Manager of Aerospace Actuation at Curtiss-Wright, emphasized the importance of this collaboration for meeting development targets.

“This collaboration… is critical to the success of developing our next generation of actuators while supporting our aggressive development timelines. It’s a strategic investment that strengthens our global competitiveness.”

Bret Sprague, VP/GM Aerospace Actuation, Curtiss-Wright

AirPro News Analysis

The integration of Averna’s test systems into Curtiss-Wright’s manufacturing floor represents a significant step toward “Industry 4.0” in aerospace defense. By connecting test rigs directly to a Manufacturing Execution System (MES), Curtiss-Wright is likely aiming to establish a “digital thread”, a continuous flow of data that tracks a component’s history from design through testing to final installation.

Furthermore, the timing of this partnership is notable. Following Averna’s acquisition by Spherea in late 2025, Averna has leveraged increased global scale and financial backing. This allows the company to execute large-scale, multi-system contracts that require strict adherence to security protocols, such as ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) compliance, which is vital for Curtiss-Wright’s defense contracts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of the Curtiss-Wright and Averna partnership?

The primary goal is to develop five custom test systems that will support the qualification and mass production of Curtiss-Wright’s next-generation electromechanical actuators.

Why is this partnership significant for the aerospace industry?

It highlights the industry’s move away from hydraulic systems toward electric actuation. It also demonstrates the increasing importance of secure, data-driven manufacturing environments to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

What specific technologies are involved?

The systems likely include Dynamic Load Test Rigs, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulators, and Environmental Stress Screening (ESS) units, all integrated via a secure data management platform.

Sources

• Yahoo Finance / PR Newswire

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

StandardAero Signs MRO Agreement with AviLease for LEAP and CFM56 Engines

StandardAero (NYSE: SARO) has finalized a General Terms Agreement (GTA) with global aircraft lessor AviLease to provide maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for CFM International engines. The agreement covers the next-generation LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines, as well as the widely used CFM56-7B, supporting AviLease’s growing portfolio of commercial-aircraft.

According to the company’s announcement, this partnerships establishes a framework for StandardAero to support AviLease’s global leasing activities through its network of MRO facilities in North-America. The deal highlights the increasing demand for independent aftermarket support as lessors seek reliable maintenance capacity for both current and new-technology engine fleets.

Strategic Partnership with AviLease

AviLease, headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is an aircraft lessor backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). The company aims to become a top-10 global player in the sector and currently manages a portfolio of 200 aircraft on lease to 53 airlines customers. The new agreement with StandardAero ensures that AviLease has access to responsive MRO support for its assets.

Olivier Ruffet, Vice President of Sales, EMEA at StandardAero, emphasized the importance of the relationship in a statement:

“StandardAero is delighted to establish a relationship with AviLease through this new agreement, which will enable our teams of LEAP and CFM56 engine MRO experts to provide responsive support to AviLease and its airline customers.”

Expanding MRO Capabilities

StandardAero will execute the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B services at its 810,000-square-foot facility in San Antonio, Texas. The company became the first non-airline CFM Branded Service Agreement (CBSA) holder for these engines in the Americas in March 2023. In addition to engine overhaul, StandardAero’s Component Repair Services team has industrialized more than 475 component repairs for the LEAP family to date.

For the CFM56-7B, which powers the Boeing 737 Next Generation, StandardAero will utilize its long-standing facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba, as well as its newer capabilities at DFW International Airport in Texas. The addition of the DFW location provides redundancy and increased capacity to meet the strong demand from operators and asset owners.

AirPro News analysis

This agreement underscores the critical role of independent MRO providers in the modern aviation ecosystem. As new-generation engines like the LEAP enter their major maintenance cycles, capacity at OEM shops is often constrained. By securing a GTA with a major independent provider like StandardAero, AviLease mitigates the risk of maintenance bottlenecks for its lessees.

Furthermore, StandardAero’s decision to expand CFM56-7B capabilities to DFW reflects the enduring longevity of the 737NG fleet. Despite the delivery of newer MAX aircraft, the global fleet of NG aircraft remains a workhorse, requiring sustained and flexible MRO support well into the 2030s.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engines are covered by this agreement?
The agreement covers CFM International LEAP-1A, LEAP-1B, and CFM56-7B engines.

Where will the maintenance work be performed?
LEAP engine services will be conducted in San Antonio, Texas. CFM56-7B services will be performed in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and at DFW International Airport, Texas.

Who is AviLease?
AviLease is a global aircraft lessor based in Saudi Arabia, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), with a portfolio of 200 aircraft.

Sources

• StandardAero

This article is based on an official press release from Lockheed Martin and additional industry data.

Sikorsky Restarts Heavy-Lift Production with New S-92A+ Variant

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has officially commenced the production ramp-up of the S-92A+, the newest iteration of its heavy-lift helicopters. Announced on March 6, 2026, this move marks a significant restart for the S-92 program, driven by renewed global demand in the offshore energy and VIP transport sectors. The manufacturers has confirmed an initial production batch of five aircraft, with the first deliveries anticipated in 2028.

According to the company’s announcement, the decision to restart production follows the complete absorption of surplus S-92 inventory that accumulated during the 2020 market downturn. With the existing fleet now fully utilized, Sikorsky is pivoting to a new manufacturing strategy that splits operations between Connecticut and New York to meet future capacity needs.

Production Strategy and Timeline

Sikorsky has established a production capacity of up to 12 aircraft annually. The initial build cycle involves five helicopters: two have already been ordered by an undisclosed 14th country for Head of State transport, while the remaining three are being built on speculation (“spec”) to meet anticipated near-term market requirements.

The manufacturing process involves a strategic division of labor across Sikorsky’s facilities:

• Stratford, Connecticut: This facility will focus on the production of dynamic components, including the main gearbox, rotor blades, and drivetrains.
• Owego, New York: Final assembly will take place here. The Owego plant previously handled the assembly of the VH-92A presidential helicopters (“Marine One”) and is now transitioning its workforce and infrastructure to the commercial S-92A+ line.

Due to the complex supply chain and manufacturing requirements, the production lead time is estimated at 24 to 36 months, placing the first customer deliveries in 2028.

The S-92A+ helicopter is another example of how we are modernizing the fleet and transforming for the future, and we are building in surge capacity to meet expected demand.

, Rich Benton, VP and General Manager at Sikorsky

Technical Specifications: The S-92A+ Standard

Sikorsky has standardized all future production on the S-92A+ configuration. This variant integrates several performance and safety upgrades that distinguish it from legacy models. The previously discussed “S-92B” designation appears to have been consolidated into this new A+ standard.

Phase IV Main Gearbox

The most critical upgrade in the S-92A+ is the Phase IV main gearbox. This component replaces the previous magnesium housing with aluminum to enhance durability and repairability. More importantly, it features a new auxiliary lubrication system designed to address historical safety concerns.

According to technical details released by the manufacturer, this system allows the gearbox to continue operating safely for a certified period even after a complete loss of primary oil pressure. Sikorsky executives have stated that the gearbox has a minimum operating lifecycle of over 6,000 flight hours.

Performance Enhancements

In addition to the gearbox, the S-92A+ features upgraded General Electric CT7-8A6 engines. These powerplants are optimized for “hot and high” environments, providing better performance at high altitudes and temperatures. The aircraft also boasts a gross weight expansion to 27,700 lbs, which allows operators to carry an additional 1,200 lbs of payload or fuel compared to previous baselines.

The S-92 remains the aircraft of choice for Head of State, offshore energy and search and rescue operators who want the highest available flight-time helicopter… We haven’t had any damage to the [Phase IV] gearbox… and we’ve put it through some things that we weren’t planning to.

, Leon Silva, VP of Global Commercial & Military Systems

AirPro News Analysis: The Safety Context

The introduction of the Phase IV gearbox is a significant development for the S-92 program, directly addressing the “run dry” capability that has been a focal point for aviation safety regulators. The S-92’s lubrication system came under intense scrutiny following the 2009 crash of Cougar Helicopters Flight 91 off the coast of Newfoundland. In that incident, a loss of gearbox oil pressure led to a catastrophic failure before the pilots could land.

By investing over $100 million in the development of the Phase IV gearbox, Sikorsky is closing the loop on this vulnerability. The new auxiliary lubrication system is designed to ensure that if primary oil is lost, the backup engages immediately, keeping the gears lubricated long enough to execute a safe landing. This upgrade is not merely a performance booster; it is a critical safety redundancy that aligns the airframe with the most stringent modern certification standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new S-92A+ helicopters be delivered?
First deliveries are expected around 2028, due to a 24–36 month production lead time.

What is the difference between the S-92A+ and older models?
The S-92A+ includes the Phase IV main gearbox with an auxiliary lubrication system, upgraded GE CT7-8A6 engines, and a gross weight increase to 27,700 lbs.

Where are the new helicopters being built?
Dynamic components are manufactured in Stratford, Connecticut, while final assembly has moved to Owego, New York.

Why is Sikorsky restarting production now?
The company states that the surplus inventory of used S-92s has been fully absorbed by the market, creating a need for new airframes to support VIP transport and offshore energy sectors.

Sources: Lockheed Martin, FlightGlobal, Vertical Magazine, RotorHub International