MRO & Manufacturing
Daher Launches U.S. Hiring Drive at 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo
Daher expands U.S. aerospace operations with new assembly line in Stuart, Florida, and recruits skilled aviation professionals at the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Expo.
This article is based on an official press release from Daher.
French aerospace conglomerate Daher is launching a comprehensive U.S. hiring initiative at the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida. Running from April 14 through April 19, 2026, the recruitment drive underscores the manufacturers expanding industrial footprint in the United States, highlighted by the upcoming opening of a new final assembly line in Stuart, Florida.
According to the company’s official press release, Daher is utilizing a dual-presence strategy at the expo. In addition to showcasing its aircraft innovations at Exhibit Stand #MD022-B, the company is aggressively recruiting at the event’s six-day Career Fair and sponsoring the “Future ‘n Flight by Daher” Plaza. Daher has also scheduled a show-opening press conference for Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at its exhibit stand.
This aggressive hiring push arrives at a critical juncture for the global aviation industry, which is currently navigating a severe, structural shortage of certified aviation mechanics and manufacturing technicians. By offering targeted incentives and expanding its domestic facilities, Daher is positioning itself to secure top-tier talent in a highly competitive labor market.
Expanding the U.S. Industrial Footprint
Stuart, Florida: A Growing Aerospace Hub
A central focus of Daher’s recruitment efforts is its expanding operations in Stuart, Florida. The company is preparing to open a new final assembly line for its TBM and Kodiak aircraft families, a move that brings airplane build-up activity back to the historic Witham Field site. For this new facility, Daher is actively seeking Structural Fitters and Assemblers, Quality Managers, Flight Test Engineers, Cabin Technicians, Manufacturing Engineers, Aircraft Mechanics, and Industrial Facilities Electricians.
In addition to the new aircraft assembly line, Daher’s existing aerostructures division in Stuart, which manufactures components for Boeing (including the 767) and Gulfstream, is also expanding. The press release notes that the company is hiring Supervisors and Sheet Metal Structures Specialists for this division, with the latter requiring a minimum of five years of experience.
Opportunities in Pompano Beach and Sandpoint
Beyond Stuart, Daher is recruiting for its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Pompano Beach, Florida. This location, which services TBM and Kodiak aircraft, is seeking Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanics with at least three years of experience.
The company is also looking to bolster its workforce in Sandpoint, Idaho, the primary production and assembly site for the rugged, unpressurized Kodiak utility turboprop. Open roles in Sandpoint include Manufacturing Managers, Quality Assurance Managers, Manufacturing Engineers, and Design & Integration Leads.
Battling the Aviation Workforce Crisis
The Mechanic Deficit
Daher’s hiring initiative is taking place against the backdrop of a well-documented labor crisis in the aviation sector. Industry data highlights a widening gap between the demand for skilled technicians and the available workforce.
According to a recent report by the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) and Oliver Wyman, the industry faces a projected shortfall of roughly 5,338 certificated mechanics in 2025, representing about 10% of commercial aviation needs, with the broader maintenance workforce deficit expected to exceed 22,000 personnel by 2027.
The demographic realities of the current workforce further compound this issue. The average age of an FAA-certificated aviation mechanic is currently 51, and over 30% of today’s certificated mechanics are expected to reach retirement age before 2030. While enrollment in Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools (AMTS) has recently risen by approximately 9.5%, the U.S. still graduates fewer than 30,000 students annually. This falls drastically short of the projected global demand for 190,000 new certified mechanics by 2037.
Daher’s Recruitment Strategy
To attract talent amid fierce competition from defense contractors, electric vehicle manufacturers, and other technology sectors, Daher is deploying a robust Employee Value Proposition (EVP). The company’s press release outlines that Daher is offering relocation packages and sign-on bonuses for high-demand roles, such as A&P Mechanics and Sheet Metal Specialists. Standard benefits include competitive salaries, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) match.
Daher also emphasizes the stability of working for a historically rooted enterprise. Founded in 1863 with aviation roots dating back to 1911, Daher is the world’s oldest aircraft manufacturer in continuous operation. As of 2025, the family-owned industrial conglomerate employs approximately 14,500 people globally and reported a revenue of €1.9 billion.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Daher’s strategy at the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo reflects a broader evolution within the aviation industry. Traditional airshows, once primarily focused on recreational flying and consumer sales, have rapidly transformed into high-stakes recruitment battlegrounds. By sponsoring entire plazas and integrating their corporate presence with the Career Fair, companies like Daher are acknowledging that securing a skilled workforce is now just as critical as securing aircraft orders.
Furthermore, Daher’s investment in Stuart, Florida, signals a strong vote of confidence in the state’s growing reputation as a premier aerospace manufacturing hub. The return of final assembly operations to Witham Field not only provides a localized economic boost but also strategically positions Daher to tap into Florida’s established aviation talent pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo?
The event takes place from April 14 through April 19, 2026, at the Lakeland Linder International Airport in Lakeland, Florida.
What types of roles is Daher hiring for?
Daher is hiring for a wide range of positions across multiple U.S. locations. Roles include A&P Mechanics, Sheet Metal Structures Specialists, Structural Fitters/Assemblers, Quality Managers, Flight Test Engineers, and Manufacturing Engineers.
Does Daher offer relocation assistance?
Yes, according to the company’s press release, Daher is offering relocation packages and sign-on bonuses for specific high-demand roles to attract top talent.
Sources:
Photo Credit: Daher
MRO & Manufacturing
Safran Seats Launches New Customer Portal at AIX 2026
Safran Seats introduced a new customer portal at AIX 2026, enhancing lifecycle management with integrated tools and marking SeatLife’s anniversary.
This article is based on an official press release from Safran Group.
Safran Seats Unveils New Customer Portal at AIX 2026, Marks SeatLife Anniversary
On April 16, 2026, Safran Seats officially launched its new dedicated customer portal during an event at the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg, Germany. According to an official press release from the company, the launch took place at the Safran booth and was timed to coincide with the first anniversary of “SeatLife,” the manufacturers comprehensive lifecycle management solution.
“Safran Seats launched its new customer portal during an event held at its booth at the Aircraft Interiors Expo, which also marked the first anniversary of SeatLife,” the company stated in its official release.
We note that this digital rollout represents a significant milestone in the company’s broader customer service enhancement strategy. By centralizing essential operational tools, Safran aims to streamline day-to-day maintenance, support, and procurement tasks for global airlines, replacing fragmented legacy systems with a unified interface.
Streamlining Airline Operations with Digital Integration
Core Functionalities of the New Portal
According to company announcements, the new platform is fully integrated into the broader Safran Customer Portal, a unified entry point launched in October 2025 for all of the Group’s diverse businesses. The portal provides operators with a single, secure interface to manage and track spare parts orders, submit and monitor technical support requests, and access up-to-date technical publications.
Pilot Testing with Major Carriers
Before its official debut at AIX 2026, the portal underwent a rigorous pilot testing phase to ensure operational readiness. In its press release, Safran specifically thanked representatives from Etihad Airways and All Nippon Airways (ANA) for their participation in validating the system. Both airlines were present at the launch event in Hamburg to mark the occasion.
Celebrating One Year of SeatLife
The Four Pillars of Lifecycle Management
The introduction of the new portal serves as a direct digital extension of the SeatLife service offering, which was originally launched in April 2025. Based on Safran’s official service documentation, SeatLife is structured around four core pillars designed to support airlines from a seat’s entry into service through its end-of-life.
First, the program emphasizes inventory management and cost control. Airlines can utilize a Total Care Support Agreement (TCSA), which Safran states provides stable operating costs, 100 percent seat availability, and personalized monthly support. Second, it offers direct access to a global network of Field Representatives and partner repair stations for MRO services using original parts.
Third, the training pillar includes over 50 modules for airline teams, accessible both in-person and via virtual reality (VR). Finally, the sustainability pillar focuses on extending seat lifespans through refurbishment kits and certified second-hand parts, alongside end-of-life recycling protocols to reduce environmental impact.
Broader Industry Context and Sustainability
Experience 4.0 and Future Cabin Concepts
The portal’s launch aligns with Safran’s “Experience 4.0” initiative, which company reports describe as an effort to foster a strong digital culture across the aerospace supply chain. At the same AIX 2026 event, Safran Seats and RAVE Aerospace unveiled the “Origin” demonstrator. This concept showcases a vision for premium travel, featuring an “Immersive Display Concept” with a U-shaped micro-LED screen and headset-free audio known as “Euphony.”
Global Expansion and Decarbonization
According to the Safran 2025 Integrated Report, the company is heavily focused on decarbonization, aiming to reduce seat weight by 15 percent by 2030. Furthermore, Safran Seats recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Emirates Airlines to construct a 20,000 to 25,000 square meter seat manufacturing and assembly facility in Dubai, which is slated for completion by the fourth quarter of 2027.
AirPro News analysis
At AirPro News, we observe that the aerospace industry is undergoing a fundamental shift from traditional hardware manufacturing to comprehensive, end-to-end lifecycle management. Safran’s dual focus on the SeatLife anniversary and the new digital portal highlights a growing demand among airlines for streamlined, “plug-and-play” digital interfaces that reduce aircraft downtime. By integrating virtual reality training, second-hand parts certification, and centralized procurement into a single ecosystem, manufacturers are increasingly positioning themselves as long-term operational partners rather than mere suppliers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the new Safran Seats customer portal?
It is a centralized digital platform launched at AIX 2026 that allows airlines to manage spare parts, request technical support, and access technical publications. - What is SeatLife?
Launched in April 2025, SeatLife is Safran’s lifecycle management solution for aircraft seats, focusing on inventory, maintenance, training, and sustainability. - Which airlines helped test the new portal?
According to Safran, Etihad Airways and All Nippon Airways (ANA) participated in the pilot testing phase prior to the official launch.
Sources
Photo Credit: Safran Group
MRO & Manufacturing
Jeh Aerospace Signs Long-Term Deal with Liebherr for Landing Gear Components
Jeh Aerospace partners with Liebherr-Aerospace to produce precision landing gear parts for single-aisle aircraft from Hyderabad, India, supporting high-rate production.
This article is based on an official press release from Liebherr.
Jeh Aerospace has secured a long-term agreement (LTA) with Liebherr-Aerospace to produce high-precision landing gear components for commercial single-aisle aircraft. According to an official press release from Liebherr, the partnership integrates the India-based manufacturer into Liebherr’s global industrial network to support high-rate production programs.
The agreement highlights the aerospace industry’s ongoing efforts to fortify supply chains for critical systems. Landing gear components require exacting dimensional tolerances and rigorous qualification standards, making reliable supplier partnerships essential for meeting the sustained demand in the single-aisle commercial aviation market.
Senior leadership from Liebherr-Aerospace recently formalized the contract during a visit to Jeh Aerospace’s dedicated manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, India. The move underscores a strategic expansion of aerospace manufacturing capabilities in the region and a commitment to maintaining rigorous quality controls.
Strategic Partnership for Single-Aisle Programs
Expanding the Global Supply Chain
Under the terms of the newly signed LTA, Jeh Aerospace will manufacture and supply precision components specifically designed for landing gear systems. These parts are destined for high-rate commercial single-aisle aircraft programs, a segment of the aviation market that continues to experience robust global demand. The official Liebherr press release notes that the production will take place at Jeh Aerospace’s specialized facility located in Hyderabad, India.
The formalization of the agreement was marked by a site visit from key Liebherr-Aerospace executives. The delegation included Martin Wandel, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director at Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation SAS, alongside Philipp Walter and Bernd Schacherl from Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH, and Vikas Ukkeranda from Liebherr India Private Ltd. Their presence at the Hyderabad facility signals a strong commitment to integrating Jeh Aerospace into Liebherr’s broader international supply-chain framework.
Meeting Stringent Aerospace Standards
A Track Record of Reliability
The production of landing gear systems is widely recognized as one of the most demanding disciplines within aerospace manufacturing. Components must adhere to extremely tight dimensional tolerances and pass rigorous qualification standards before they can be installed on commercial aircraft. Furthermore, suppliers must ensure delivery with virtually no margin for disruption to keep aircraft assembly lines moving efficiently.
According to the company’s press release, Jeh Aerospace has established a strong track record in this demanding environment. The manufacturer has already delivered more than 200,000 flight-critical aerospace components while maintaining a record of zero quality escapes. This demonstrated reliability was a key factor in securing the long-term agreement with a major Tier 1 manufacturer like Liebherr.
Martin Wandel, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director at Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation SAS, highlighted the importance of this reliability in a company statement:
“We collaborate with partners being capable of fulfilling stringent requirements for precision, quality, and delivery performance. We are pleased to enter into this agreement with Jeh Aerospace and look forward to collaborating with a supplier that has built strong manufacturing capabilities and a clear commitment to operational excellence.”
The sentiment was echoed by Jeh Aerospace leadership, who emphasized the critical nature of the components they will be producing under the new contract.
“Landing gear is among the most safety-critical systems on any aircraft. Being trusted to manufacture for a program of this caliber, by one of aerospace’s most respected Tier 1 manufacturers, is a milestone our team has earned through precision and process discipline,” stated Vishal R. Sanghavi, Co-Founder and CEO of Jeh Aerospace.
AirPro News analysis
We view this long-term agreement as a clear indicator of two major trends in the commercial aviation sector. First, the sustained high-rate production demands for single-aisle aircraft are compelling Tier 1 suppliers like Liebherr to diversify and strengthen their global manufacturing networks. Second, India’s aerospace manufacturing sector, particularly in hubs like Hyderabad, is rapidly maturing. By successfully delivering over 200,000 flight-critical components without quality escapes, companies like Jeh Aerospace are proving they can meet the exacting standards required for safety-critical systems such as landing gear. This partnership not only bolsters Liebherr’s supply chain resilience but also cements India’s growing role as a reliable node in the global aerospace industrial base.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new agreement between Jeh Aerospace and Liebherr-Aerospace?
Jeh Aerospace has signed a long-term agreement to manufacture and supply high-precision landing gear components for Liebherr-Aerospace, supporting high-rate commercial single-aisle aircraft programs.
Where will the landing gear components be manufactured?
The components will be produced at Jeh Aerospace’s dedicated manufacturing facility located in Hyderabad, India.
Why is landing gear production considered highly demanding?
Landing gear systems are safety-critical and require components to meet extremely tight dimensional tolerances, pass rigorous qualification standards, and be delivered without supply chain disruptions.
Sources: Liebherr
Photo Credit: Liebherr
MRO & Manufacturing
Korean Air Implements Ramco Aviation Suite for Engine Maintenance
Korean Air adopts Ramco Aviation Suite to digitize engine maintenance, enhance productivity, and prepare for Asia’s largest MRO hub in 2027.
This article is based on an official press release from Ramco Systems.
Korean Air Deploys Ramco Aviation Suite at Engine Maintenance Center
South Korea’s flag carrier, Korean Air, has officially gone live with the Ramco Aviation Suite at its Engine Maintenance Center. According to an official press release from Ramco Systems, the implementation is designed to streamline complex operations, boost productivity, and support the expansion of the airline’s world-class engine maintenance capabilities.
The transition marks a significant step toward paperless operations for the Airlines. We note that this digital transformation lays the technological groundwork for Korean Air’s upcoming engine maintenance cluster, which is projected to open in 2027 and is billed as Asia’s largest engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) hub.
By integrating this new software, Korean Air aims to enhance productivity and gain real-time intelligence on its maintenance operations. The platform connects various departments, including Engine Maintenance, Finance, Customer Support, and Billing, ensuring seamless collaboration across the organization and improving overall efficiency.
Digital Transformation and Mobile Integration
The deployment of the Ramco Aviation Suite introduces significant workflow optimizations for Korean Air’s technical staff. In the official press release, Ramco Systems stated that over 400 mechanics and engineers are now utilizing the “Mechanic Anywhere” mobile application to execute performance maintenance digitally.
This mobile-first approach allows maintenance execution to be recorded on the go, eliminating manual bottlenecks and reducing queue times. Furthermore, the Software integrates effortlessly with Korean Air’s Automated Storage Retrieval System. This integration facilitates efficient warehouse management and connects the airline with its suppliers and customers through industry-standard technologies, ensuring both interoperability and scalability.
Data-Driven Maintenance Operations
Beyond mobile execution, the new system provides Korean Air’s leadership with comprehensive, data-driven insights. The platform delivers real-time intelligence on capacity versus production throughput, overall profit and loss performance, and cost and revenue metrics.
Chan Woo Jung, Senior Vice President and Head of the Maintenance & Engineering Division at Korean Air, emphasized the strategic importance of the software upgrade in addressing the complexity of engine maintenance.
“This milestone represents a bold step toward redefining how we operate in the aviation industry. By partnering with Ramco, we are embracing a digital-first approach that will allow us to scale with confidence and deliver exceptional value…”
Preparing for Asia’s Largest Engine MRO Hub
Korean Air is the sole operator of specialized facilities for civilian Commercial-Aircraft engine overhauls in South Korea. Since it began overhauling Boeing 707 engines in 1976, the airline has rebuilt nearly 5,000 engines. These engines have been supplied to its subsidiary Jin Air, as well as to international carriers like Delta Air Lines and China Southern Airlines.
The integration of Ramco’s software serves as a foundational digital component for the airline’s future expansion. The upcoming engine maintenance cluster, scheduled to open in 2027, will rely heavily on predictive maintenance, real-time intelligence, and automated processes to achieve new levels of operational agility.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Korean Air’s investment in enterprise software reflects a broader industry trend toward digitalization in the MRO sector. As airlines manage increasingly complex modern engines, the ability to track real-time data and optimize supply chains becomes a critical competitive advantage.
With a modern fleet of 166 aircraft, over 20,000 professional employees, and a passenger volume that exceeded 25 million in 2025, Korean Air’s operational scale requires robust technological infrastructure. The successful deployment of this system not only future-proofs their current maintenance operations but also positions the airline to capitalize on the growing demand for third-party MRO services in the Asia-Pacific region once their new cluster opens in 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What software did Korean Air implement?
Korean Air implemented the Ramco Aviation Suite, including the Mechanic Anywhere mobile application, to manage and digitize its engine maintenance operations.
When is Korean Air’s new engine maintenance cluster opening?
According to the company’s press release, the new engine maintenance cluster is set to open in 2027 and is expected to become Asia’s largest engine MRO hub.
How many employees are using the new mobile application?
Over 400 mechanics and engineers at Korean Air are currently using the digital application for maintenance execution, significantly reducing manual bottlenecks.
How many engines has Korean Air rebuilt?
Since beginning its overhaul operations in 1976, Korean Air has rebuilt nearly 5,000 aircraft engines.
Sources
Photo Credit: Ramco
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