This article is based on an official press release from Gama Aviation.

Gama Aviation Secures EASA Part 147 Approval for King Air Maintenance Training

Gama Aviation has announced a significant expansion of its engineering training capabilities after receiving European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part 147 approval. According to the company’s official statement, this certification authorizes Gama Aviation to deliver type training for the Beechcraft King Air 200 and 300 series aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 engines.

The approval allows the aviation services company to provide both theoretical and practical training, conduct examinations, and issue certificates of recognition. These services will support multiple engineering license pathways, specifically B1 (Mechanical), B2 (Avionics), and Type C (Base Maintenance). To maximize accessibility for operators and engineers across the United Kingdom, the company confirmed that training will be delivered from its facilities in both Bournemouth and Glasgow.

Strengthening Technical Infrastructure

This regulatory milestone represents a strategic move to bring critical training infrastructure in-house. By securing Part 147 approval, Gama Aviation aims to support the progression of engineering licenses and ensure that operators can maintain resilient technical teams. The company emphasized that this development aligns with its broader Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) strategy.

Paul Kinch, Managing Director of MRO at Gama Aviation, highlighted the importance of the King Air platform in a statement included in the press release:

“This approval is another important step in the continued development of our maintenance training capability. King Air aircraft remain a cornerstone of many corporate and special mission fleets, and it is essential that operators have access to trusted, high-quality training to support safe and efficient operations.”

Kinch further noted that expanding the Part 147 scope allows the company to invest in the expertise required for current operations while anticipating future fleet requirements.

Practical Training Focus

The training programs are designed to combine classroom learning with hands-on practical experience. Olusegun Johnson, Training Manager, Part 147 at Gama Aviation, stated that the organization’s focus is on preparing engineers for the “realities of the maintenance environment.”

“By offering training in both Bournemouth and Glasgow, we are making it easier for customers to access approved courses while maintaining the quality, consistency and regulatory compliance they expect from Gama Aviation.”

AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Context and Industry Impact

While the official press release focuses on the regulatory approval, AirPro News notes that this development occurs against the backdrop of a wider industry engineering shortage and specific operational commitments held by Gama Aviation.

Supporting Critical Services

The decision to establish training capabilities in Glasgow is likely strategically aligned with Gama Aviation’s long-standing relationship with the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS). According to industry records, Gama Aviation has supported the SAS for over 30 years. In July 2024, the company signed a deal to purchase three new King Air 360C aircraft to support this contract. By localizing training in Glasgow, Gama Aviation effectively insulates its critical air ambulance operations from external labor shortages, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified engineers to maintain these life-saving aircraft.

Addressing the Engineering Skills Gap

The aviation sector is currently navigating a severe workforce shortage, with a significant portion of the licensed engineering population nearing retirement. Furthermore, regulatory complexities following Brexit have complicated the flow of licensed engineers between the UK and the EU. By securing EASA approval to train B1, B2, and Type C engineers internally, Gama Aviation is not only reducing its reliance on third-party providers like FlightSafety International or CAE but also potentially creating a new revenue stream by offering these high-demand courses to external operators.

Market Landscape

The Beechcraft King Air series remains the most popular business turboprop globally, with over 7,000 units delivered and approximately 825 operating within the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region. These aircraft are frequently utilized for special missions, including surveillance and air ambulance services, due to their versatility and short-runway performance.

Gama Aviation’s entry into the training market places it alongside other established providers. Competitors such as 2Excel Engineering have also recently sought to bolster domestic training capabilities, highlighting the high demand for “home-grown” UK-based training solutions for this ubiquitous airframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EASA Part 147 approval?

EASA Part 147 is a regulatory standard that governs maintenance training organizations. It authorizes an organization to conduct training and examinations required for the issuance of aircraft maintenance licenses.

Which aircraft are covered by this new approval?

The approval covers the Beechcraft King Air 200 and 300 series equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 engines.

Where will the training take place?

Gama Aviation will deliver these training programs from its facilities in Bournemouth and Glasgow.

Sources

• Gama Aviation Press Release