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Liebherr and HAECO Complete First COMAC C909 Landing Gear Overhaul

Liebherr and HAECO finalized the first major landing gear overhaul for the COMAC C909, creating a localized maintenance infrastructure in China.

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

On May 20, 2026, Liebherr-Aerospace and HAECO Landing Gear Services announced the successful completion of the world’s first major landing gear overhaul for the COMAC C909 regional jet. Formerly known as the ARJ21 or “Soaring Phoenix,” the aircraft represents a major pillar of China’s domestic Commercial-Aircraft strategy.

According to the official press release, this milestone marks a significant advancement in the region’s maintenance ecosystem. By combining Liebherr’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) expertise with HAECO’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, the Partnerships has established a localized, full-lifecycle maintenance infrastructure for China’s first self-developed regional jet.

We note that this development is poised to directly benefit operators in both China and rapidly growing Southeast Asian markets. By localizing heavy maintenance, the joint effort aims to reduce turnaround times and maximize fleet availability for Airlines operating the C909.

A Milestone in Localized Maintenance

The Overhaul Process

The COMAC C909 is a 78–90 seat regional jet manufactured by the Chinese state-owned aerospace company COMAC. The landing gear for the aircraft was originally developed and manufactured by Liebherr-Aerospace. Because the landing gear is a safety-critical subsystem, the press release notes that its overhaul requires strict adherence to aviation maintenance procedures, dimensional tolerances, and certified inspection standards.

The overhaul process involved a comprehensive inspection, disassembly, component evaluation, replacement of wear-sensitive parts, reassembly, and final acceptance testing. According to Liebherr, initial preparation and process optimization began in 2025, culminating in final quality acceptance testing and official delivery in May 2026.

Division of Responsibilities

The project highlights a highly integrated collaboration between the OEM and the MRO provider. Liebherr-Aerospace provided technical supervision, process validation, and quality assurance throughout the entire procedure to guarantee compliance with safety and quality standards. Their direct involvement ensured that the overhaul benefited from the original product engineering expertise.

HAECO Landing Gear Services managed the physical overhaul execution, maintenance operations, and workshop integration activities.

“This collaboration represents a significant step forward for China’s civil aviation industry. By combining Liebherr’s OEM technical DNA with HAECO’s MRO excellence, we have not only restored [the landing gear but also established a localized maintenance capability]…”

, Eric Thévenot, General Manager of Aerospace Customer Services at Liebherr (China) Co., Ltd., in a company statement.

Expanding a Long-Standing Partnership

Liebherr-Aerospace and HAECO have a long-standing relationship in the Asian market. Since 2017, the two companies have partnered to provide landing gear maintenance for Embraer E-Jet E1 operators in mainland China.

In November 2024, the partners celebrated the delivery of their 100th maintained Embraer E190 landing gear at HAECO’s Xiamen facility. At that time, Liebherr announced its commitment to supporting HAECO in expanding its overhaul services to include the COMAC C909. This alliance was further solidified in July 2025, when HAECO and Liebherr-Aerospace signed a comprehensive component maintenance agreement to provide repair and overhaul services for the hydraulic components of both the COMAC C909 and the larger C919 aircraft.

“Our partnership with Liebherr-Aerospace has been instrumental in enhancing our service offerings and meeting the growing demands of our customers in the Chinese Mainland. We are eager to extend our expertise to the C909 as we adapt to the evolving market.”

, Sandra Nieuwenhuijzen, Group Director of Component and Engine Services at HAECO Group, speaking in late 2024.

AirPro News analysis

We view this successful overhaul as a strategic victory for China’s broader aerospace ambitions. The ability to maintain and overhaul indigenous aircraft locally is just as important as manufacturing them. Historically, heavy maintenance for specialized aircraft components often required shipping parts overseas, leading to long turnaround times and increased costs.

Furthermore, the C909 is increasingly being adopted beyond China, reaching rapidly growing Southeast Asian aviation markets such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Having a certified, OEM-backed overhaul facility in the region ensures these operators have access to efficient, high-quality maintenance, which is critical for keeping regional fleets operational and profitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the COMAC C909?

The COMAC C909 is a 78–90 seat regional jet manufactured by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). It was formerly designated as the ARJ21, which translates to “Soaring Phoenix.”

Why is this landing gear overhaul significant?

It is the world’s first major landing gear overhaul for the C909 platform. It proves that a localized, OEM-backed maintenance infrastructure has been successfully established in China, reducing the need to ship heavy components overseas for repair.


Sources

Photo Credit: Liebherr

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MRO & Manufacturing

Sunvair Acquires Aircraft Systems to Expand MRO Services

Sunvair acquires Miami-based Aircraft Systems, enhancing its FAA and EASA certified MRO capabilities for commercial and cargo aerospace operators.

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

Sunvair has announced the Acquisitions of Miami-based maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider Aircraft Systems. The move, announced on May 11, 2026, aims to broaden Sunvair’s product and service offerings in the aerospace sector, according to the company’s official release.

The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed in the announcement. This acquisition represents a strategic expansion for Sunvair, allowing the company to deepen its component repair capabilities for commercial and cargo operators globally.

Expanding MRO Capabilities

Aircraft Systems’ Expertise

Aircraft Systems brings over 40 years of experience to the Sunvair portfolio. Based in Miami, Florida, the newly acquired company operates as a 145 FAA and EASA Repair Station. According to the press release, Aircraft Systems holds an unlimited Accessory Class I, II, and III rating, alongside limited ratings for landing gear and airframes.

The Miami-based firm specializes in a wide array of aircraft components. Their expertise covers hydraulic and electro-hydraulic accessories, landing gear components, mechanical and electro-mechanical accessories, electronic and pneumatic accessories, as well as airframe components.

Leadership Perspectives

Strategic Alignment

Executives from both companies highlighted the strategic alignment of the acquisition. Kerry Jarandson, President and CEO of Sunvair Aerospace Group, emphasized that the purchase aligns with their ongoing growth strategy to become a primary service provider for their clients.

“The acquisition of Aircraft Systems is a continuation of our strategy to expand the accessories and components we offer and provide even more services to our customers,” Jarandson stated in the press release.

Michael Foreman, President of Aircraft Systems, echoed this sentiment, noting the shared commitment to quality between the two organizations.

“For over 40 years, we have been providing our customers with the highest quality services to consistently meet and exceed their expectations. Sunvair shares that same commitment to quality and excellence, and we look forward to being part of the Sunvair family,” Foreman said.

AirPro News analysis

At AirPro News, we observe that this acquisition highlights a continuing trend of consolidation within the aerospace MRO sector. By integrating Aircraft Systems, Sunvair, a company founded in 1955 with facilities across the United States, is positioning itself as a more comprehensive, single-source provider for commercial and military operators. The addition of a Miami-based facility also strategically enhances Sunvair’s geographic footprint, particularly in a key hub for Latin American and global cargo operations. While financial details remain undisclosed, the expansion of FAA and EASA certified capabilities will likely strengthen Sunvair’s competitive edge in the component repair market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What company did Sunvair acquire?

Sunvair acquired Aircraft Systems, a Miami-based maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider.

When was the acquisition announced?

The acquisition was announced in a press release dated May 11, 2026.

What are Aircraft Systems’ specialties?

Aircraft Systems specializes in repairing and overhauling hydraulic, electro-hydraulic, mechanical, electro-mechanical, electronic, and pneumatic accessories, as well as landing gear and airframe components.

Sources

Photo Credit: Sunvair

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MRO & Manufacturing

Omni Aircraft Maintenance Launches Omni Parts Solutions for Aviation Supply Chain

Omni Aircraft Maintenance launches Omni Parts Solutions, a parts distribution division offering 24/7 AOG support and FAA-compliant inventory from Learjet 45s.

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Omni Aircraft Maintenance Launches Omni Parts Solutions to Streamline Aviation Supply Chain

Omni Aircraft Maintenance has officially launched Omni Parts Solutions (OPS), a dedicated aircraft parts distribution division aimed at streamlining the aviation supply chain. The new venture is designed to address persistent industry bottlenecks, providing operators and maintenance teams with faster access to critical components.

The announcement, made via an official company release, highlights the aviation aftermarket’s ongoing struggles with slow response times, limited inventory access, and excessive aircraft downtime. To spearhead this new division, the Tulsa-based company has appointed industry veteran Joe Stanley as Director of Sales.

By integrating parts distribution into its existing portfolio of maintenance, avionics, and aircraft sales, Omni is positioning itself as a comprehensive, single-partner support platform for aircraft owners and operators across the globe.

Addressing Supply Chain Friction and AOG Downtime

The aviation aftermarket has long been plagued by fragmented supply chains. According to the company’s launch announcement, operators frequently cite slow responses, limited inventory access, and too many handoffs as major operational pain points. These inefficiencies often culminate in costly Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations, where a mechanical issue grounds an aircraft until a replacement part is secured, costing operators thousands of dollars in lost revenue.

Core Offerings and Initial Inventory

To combat these challenges, OPS is rolling out 24/7 AOG support, nationwide U.S. sourcing, and immediate quote turnarounds. The division targets a wide array of sectors, including commercial and military aircraft, MRO providers, OEMs suppliers, and defense contractors.

Regulatory compliance is also a focal point for the new entity. The company notes that all applicable parts will ship with an FAA Form 8130 (Authorized Release Certificate), ensuring strict adherence to airworthiness standards. To build its initial inventory, OPS is currently parting out four Learjet 45 aircraft, according to the company’s official portal.

Leadership and Strategic Expansion

The appointment of Joe Stanley brings significant aftermarket credibility to the newly formed division. Stanley joins OPS with over 30 years of experience spanning aviation parts, components, and avionics.

Prior to this role, Stanley spent more than 13 years at Elliott Aviation in Moline, Illinois, most recently serving as Director of Materials. Industry records from an October 2012 Elliott Aviation press release indicate he originally joined the company to launch their aftermarket avionics sales department. Before his tenure at Elliott, Stanley owned B&E Sales & Service, Inc., an Ohio-based supplier of avionics components.

Omni’s Broader Growth Strategy

The launch of OPS follows a period of rapid physical expansion for its parent organization. In January 2026, Omni Aircraft Maintenance significantly increased its footprint at Tulsa International Airport (KTUL). According to reporting by Aviation International News, the company leased a 40,000-square-foot hangar and 18,000 square feet of office space from Atlantic Aviation.

Michael Rodgers, CEO of Omni Aircraft Maintenance, emphasized the strategic nature of the new division in a corporate statement:

“Our approach is simple, reduce friction for aircraft owners at every stage of ownership. With the launch of OPS, customers now have access to maintenance, avionics, aircraft sales, and parts support through one trusted partner.”

AirPro News analysis

We view the introduction of Omni Parts Solutions as a reflection of a growing trend among mid-sized MRO providers to vertically integrate their service offerings. By bringing parts distribution in-house, Omni not only secures a more reliable supply chain for its own maintenance operations but also opens a lucrative revenue stream by serving external MROs and international operators. Furthermore, the strategic teardown of four Learjet 45s suggests a targeted approach to building inventory in high-demand, specific airframes, rather than attempting a generalized entry into the highly competitive parts market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Omni Parts Solutions (OPS)?

OPS is a newly launched aircraft parts distribution division of Tulsa-based Omni Aircraft Maintenance, designed to provide fast, reliable parts sourcing and 24/7 AOG support.

Who is leading the new division?

Joe Stanley, an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in the aviation aftermarket, has been hired as Director of Sales. He previously served as Director of Materials at Elliott Aviation.

What kind of inventory does OPS currently hold?

According to the company, they are currently parting out four Learjet 45 aircraft to build their initial stock, with all applicable parts shipping with FAA Form 8130 to ensure regulatory compliance.

Sources

Photo Credit: Omni Parts Solutions

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MRO & Manufacturing

Finnair and Liebherr Sign Long-Term Airbus A350 Landing Gear MRO Deal

Finnair partners with Liebherr-Aerospace for nose landing gear maintenance on 17 Airbus A350 aircraft from 2026 to 2034, ensuring long-term fleet reliability.

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

In a move that highlights the maturing lifecycle of next-generation wide-body aircraft, Finnair has secured a long-term service agreement with Liebherr-Aerospace. According to an official press release from the manufacturer, the contract covers the MRO of the nose landing gear systems across the Finnish flag carrier’s Airbus A350 fleet. The comprehensive maintenance campaign is slated to begin in 2026 and will extend through 2034.

As the aviation industry faces an impending surge in heavy maintenance requirements for modern composite aircraft, securing reliable MRO slots has become a critical operational priority. Finnair, which was the third airline globally to operate the Airbus A350, is among the first carriers to reach the age and flight-cycle thresholds necessitating these extensive landing gear overhauls.

The agreement ensures that all overhaul activities will be conducted entirely in-house at Liebherr-Aerospace’s specialized facility in Lindenberg, Germany. By partnering directly with the OEM, Finnair aims to guarantee fleet reliability over the next decade.

The Scope of the Finnair-Liebherr Agreement

Securing Long-Term Maintenance Slots

The newly signed agreement between Finnair and Liebherr-Aerospace represents a significant logistical commitment. Based on the company’s announcement, the overhaul campaign will service Finnair’s current fleet of 17 Airbus A350-900 aircraft. Because Finnair introduced these aircraft to its fleet around 2015 and 2016, the landing gear systems are now approaching their first major overhaul cycle.

Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH originally developed, manufactured, and certified the nose landing gear system for the Airbus A350. By returning the components to the OEM, Finnair leverages Liebherr’s specialized engineering expertise and dedicated supply chain.

Alex Vlielander, Chief Customer Officer at Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation SAS, emphasized the strategic timing of the Partnerships in the company’s press release:

“The industry is moving now into the next global landing gear overhaul wave, entering a decisive planning phase for anticipating and securing future slots. We are delighted and grateful to Finnair for this agreement, which marks a significant step forward in our partnership and highlights the strong mutual trust between our companies. It further strengthens our role as a key support partner for Finnair’s A350 fleet.”

Industry Trends: The Wide-Body Overhaul Wave

Navigating MRO Bottlenecks

The aviation aftermarket is currently entering a critical and highly competitive phase. As the global fleet of new-generation wide-body aircraft, such as the Airbus A350 and the Boeing 787, matures, Airlines are confronting the first major cycle of landing gear overhaul programs. Landing gear overhauls require highly specialized MRO capabilities and significant downtime. Consequently, industry data indicates that securing long-term maintenance slots is becoming increasingly difficult.

To meet this exact surge in demand, Liebherr-Aerospace has been proactively scaling its operations. In March 2026, the company announced a 6,000-square-meter expansion of the customer service and assembly areas at its Lindenberg site. According to the manufacturer, this expansion was explicitly driven by the rapidly growing demand for MRO services dedicated to the Airbus A350 fleet.

Recent Milestones for Liebherr

The Finnair agreement follows a series of significant operational milestones for Liebherr-Aerospace. Just weeks prior to this announcement, in April 2026, the Lindenberg facility inducted its very first Airbus A350 nose landing gear into the overhaul process. This event marked a historic transition for the A350 gear, moving it from a purely production and operational phase into its first lifecycle maintenance phase.

Additionally, in April 2026, Liebherr delivered the first nose landing gear for the new Airbus A350F commercial freighter. This new iteration features a newly developed anti-tail-tipping pressure sensor, further cementing the Lindenberg site as Liebherr’s center of competence for flight controls, landing gear systems, gears, gearboxes, and electronics.

Strategic Implications for Airlines

AirPro News analysis

At AirPro News, we view Finnair’s long-term agreement as a highly proactive operational strategy. The composite aircraft that revolutionized long-haul travel a decade ago are no longer brand new. They are now entering their heavy maintenance lifecycles, which is creating a boom for specialized MRO providers like Liebherr.

By locking in the OEM for overhauls through 2034, Finnair is effectively insulating itself from an impending global shortage of wide-body MRO slots. Airlines that fail to secure these maintenance windows years in advance risk severe supply chain bottlenecks, extended aircraft downtime, and potential disruptions to their long-haul networks. This agreement underscores a broader industry shift where forward-thinking carriers are prioritizing long-term aftermarket stability over short-term cost savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the agreement between Finnair and Liebherr-Aerospace cover?
The agreement covers the long-term maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of the nose landing gear systems for Finnair’s fleet of 17 Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

When will the maintenance campaign take place?
According to the press release, the maintenance campaign is scheduled to begin in 2026 and will run through 2034.

Where will the landing gear overhauls be performed?
All overhaul activities will be performed entirely in-house at Liebherr-Aerospace’s facility in Lindenberg, Germany.

Why is this agreement happening now?
Finnair was an early adopter of the Airbus A350, introducing the aircraft in 2015 and 2016. These aircraft are now reaching the age and flight-cycle thresholds that require comprehensive landing gear overhauls. Securing slots now helps the airline avoid industry-wide MRO bottlenecks.

Sources: Liebherr Press Release

Photo Credit: Liebherr

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