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