MRO & Manufacturing
JMI Partners with Honeywell for Engine and APU Maintenance in EMEAI
JMI secures Honeywell partnership to offer authorized TFE731 engine and APU line maintenance services across Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India.
This article is based on an official press release from Jet Maintenance International (JMI).
Jet Maintenance International (JMI), a UK-based aircraft maintenance provider, has officially secured a strategic channel Partnerships with Honeywell Aerospace. According to a recent company press release, JMI has been awarded APU Line Authorised Channel Partner status, alongside approval for TFE731 Line Maintenance Plus. This development significantly broadens the company’s service offerings for business and general aviation operators.
The agreement authorizes JMI to deliver specialized field service support for Honeywell TFE731 engines and Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) series across the Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India (EMEAI) region. To facilitate this expansion, the maintenance provider has established a dedicated Engine Field Service Team, designed to support both Honeywell Maintenance Service Plan (MSP) and non-MSP customers.
By integrating these new engine and APU capabilities with its existing airframe and avionics expertise, JMI is positioning itself as a more comprehensive service provider for fleet operators navigating the complex EMEAI airspace.
Expanding Capabilities in the EMEAI Region
The Scope of the Honeywell Partnership
The newly announced partnership allows JMI to perform authorized line maintenance on the highly popular Honeywell TFE731 family of geared turbofan engines, which are frequently utilized in business jets such as the Dassault Falcon series and Learjets. According to the official announcement, the authorization also covers APU line maintenance, ensuring that operators have access to critical power unit support.
JMI noted in its release that the new Engine Field Service Team will collaborate closely with third-party Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities and operators. This cooperative approach is designed to ensure that aircraft traveling across borders within the EMEAI region can receive localized, authorized support, thereby maintaining their warranties and MSP statuses.
Leadership and Operational Base
To spearhead this new division, JMI has appointed Gary Tims as Engine Service Manager. The company highlights that Tims brings over 20 years of experience working specifically with Honeywell Aerospace engine and APU product lines. Furthermore, he currently serves as the Mechanical Vice Chair for the EMEAI Honeywell Aerospace Global Customer Committee, adding significant industry credibility to JMI’s new team.
Operations for the Engine Field Service Team will be dispatched from JMI’s 18,000-square-foot base maintenance facility located at London Oxford Airport in the UK. The company stated that this central hub will complement its existing avionics services and line station situated at London Biggin Hill.
“This expansion of our capabilities, alongside the appointment of Gary Tims, marks a significant milestone in JMI’s strategic growth. It enables us to provide responsive, high-quality engine field service support to customers across EMEAI, whenever and wherever it is required, often at short notice.”
Strategic Growth and Industry Context
Backing from Pula Aviation Services Group
Founded in 2018 by Ed Griffith and Neil Plumb, JMI initially built its reputation as an independent MRO provider with a strong focus on Textron (Cessna) Citation and Dassault Falcon aircraft. However, the company’s trajectory shifted significantly following its acquisition by the Pula Aviation Services Group (PASL) in July 2025.
According to background information provided alongside the release, PASL’s portfolio includes ASG (Aircraft Servicing Guernsey), Airpart Supply, and Centreline AV Limited. The financial and operational backing of PASL has provided JMI with the necessary resources and investment to expand its service offerings, ultimately culminating in this new Honeywell partnership.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that JMI’s integration into the Pula Aviation Services Group and its subsequent expansion into engine support is highly reflective of broader industry trends. MROs are increasingly consolidating to offer “one-stop-shop” solutions. By adding Honeywell engine and APU capabilities to their existing airframe, structural, and avionics expertise, JMI becomes a highly attractive, comprehensive service provider for fleet operators who prefer to minimize the number of vendors they rely on.
Furthermore, Ed Griffith’s emphasis on providing support “whenever and wherever it is required, often at short notice” underscores a growing demand in business aviation for mobile and field services. Operators are increasingly relying on mobile repair teams and Aircraft on Ground (AOG) rapid-response units to minimize aircraft downtime. Because downtime is exceptionally costly for private jet owners, the ability to dispatch an authorized Honeywell technician directly from London Oxford Airport to a grounded aircraft anywhere in the EMEAI region provides a distinct competitive advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new partnership between JMI and Honeywell Aerospace?
JMI has been awarded APU Line Authorised Channel Partner status and TFE731 Line Maintenance Plus by Honeywell Aerospace, allowing them to provide specialized field service support for these engines and APUs.
What regions does this service cover?
The service covers the EMEAI region, which includes Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and India.
Who is leading JMI’s new Engine Field Service Team?
The team is led by Engine Service Manager Gary Tims, an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience with Honeywell Aerospace products.
Where will these services be dispatched from?
Services will be dispatched from JMI’s 18,000-square-foot base maintenance facility at London Oxford Airport in the UK.
Does this service cover aircraft not on a Honeywell Maintenance Service Plan (MSP)?
Yes, JMI’s new division will provide support for both Honeywell MSP and non-MSP customers.
Sources
Photo Credit: Jet Maintenance International
MRO & Manufacturing
Fourth Front Aviation Expands National Footprint with D&J Aviation Acquisition
Fourth Front Aviation acquires D&J Aviation at Colorado Springs, expanding services and launching a second major facility for aircraft maintenance.
This article is based on an official press release from Fourth Front Aviation.
Fourth Front Aviation, a California-based aircraft maintenance and modification provider, has officially acquired D&J Aviation, a premier avionics and special mission systems integrator located at the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport (KCOS). According to the company’s press release, this acquisitions represents a significant milestone in Fourth Front’s strategy to build a national aviation services platform.
The move marks Fourth Front Aviation’s first major geographic expansion outside of its flagship location at the Santa Monica Municipal Airport (KSMO), which opened in early 2025. By integrating D&J Aviation’s established facilities and customer relationships, Fourth Front aims to scale its tech-forward approach to aircraft maintenance across the Western United States.
Company founders Greg Wellman and Tom Schaefer noted in the release that the addition of D&J Aviation’s talented team strengthens their ability to serve a diverse clientele, including aircraft owners, operators, government agencies, and fleet managers.
Expanding Capabilities in the Rocky Mountain Region
Based at KCOS, D&J Aviation brings approximately 40 years of experience in aviation integration and installation to the Fourth Front portfolio. Operating as an FAA Part 145 repair station, D&J is a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) with a strong legacy built under the leadership of CEO Jim Schwab.
To ensure a seamless transition for existing clients, the Colorado facility will be officially rebranded as Fourth Front Aviation Colorado, but will retain its current leadership and staff. The press release notes that the Colorado Springs operation will continue providing comprehensive aircraft maintenance and inspection services while expanding its technical capabilities.
Specialized Services and Contracts
The acquisition significantly broadens Fourth Front’s service portfolio. D&J Aviation specializes in avionics installation, upgrades, and troubleshooting, alongside maintenance for piston, turboprop, and light jet aircraft. Furthermore, the facility provides advanced communications, sensor integration, wildfire air attack support, and government agency aviation support.
Industry research highlights D&J’s recent momentum, noting that in 2024, the company became a sales and installation partner for SmartSky’s inflight air-to-ground connectivity. D&J also recently secured a military contract to install multi-mission communications suites on aircraft including the Pilatus PC-12 and Cessna Citation Caravan.
Modernizing General Aviation Maintenance
Fourth Front Aviation was founded by Tom Schaefer and Greg Wellman, military veterans and former Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) roommates. The company was established to address widespread inefficiencies and a lack of transparency in general aviation maintenance.
To solve the traditional “black box” nature of maintenance shops, Fourth Front utilizes a proprietary digital platform. This system allows aircraft owners to log in and track the real-time status of their aircraft, monitor costs, and view wait times.
“For a lot of owners, the maintenance shop is a black box,” said Greg Wellman, Co-founder of Fourth Front Aviation, in a company statement. “Rather than calling us up… [owners] can log in at any point in time and see, here’s where my aircraft’s at, here’s what it’s waiting on, here’s when I can expect to get it back.”
Addressing the Mechanic Shortage
Beyond digital transparency, Fourth Front is actively tackling the industry-wide shortage of Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics. According to industry background data, the company has instituted an apprenticeship program designed to capture the institutional knowledge of veteran mechanics and pass it down to the next generation of aviation technicians, ensuring a sustainable workforce for its expanding network.
Strategic Vision for a National Network
The acquisition of D&J Aviation aligns directly with Fourth Front’s long-term vision of creating a premier national network of aviation service centers. The founders envision a future where digital maintenance records follow an aircraft seamlessly across any Fourth Front location nationwide.
“Our customers increasingly seek a maintenance partner capable of supporting aircraft across multiple locations while maintaining consistent standards and technical expertise,” stated Tom Schaefer, Co-founder of Fourth Front Aviation.
AirPro News analysis
We view this acquisition as a highly strategic alignment of legacy expertise and modern operational technology. By acquiring an established FAA Part 145 repair station with 40 years of history and active government contracts, Fourth Front bypasses the steep regulatory and operational hurdles of building a new facility from scratch. Furthermore, the shared military veteran background of both Fourth Front’s founders and D&J Aviation’s SDVOSB status suggests a strong cultural synergy. If Fourth Front can successfully integrate its digital transparency platform into D&J’s legacy operations without disrupting existing government and commercial workflows, it will serve as a powerful proof-of-concept for their national expansion model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fourth Front Aviation?
Fourth Front Aviation is a tech-forward aircraft maintenance and modification provider founded by military veterans. They utilize a digital platform to provide aircraft owners with real-time transparency regarding maintenance status, costs, and wait times.
What will happen to D&J Aviation’s current staff?
According to the acquisition details, D&J Aviation will be rebranded as Fourth Front Aviation Colorado, but the existing leadership and staff will remain in place to ensure continuity for customers.
Where are Fourth Front Aviation’s locations?
The company operates its flagship location at the Santa Monica Municipal Airport (KSMO) in California and now operates a second major facility at the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport (KCOS).
Sources
Photo Credit: Fourth Front Aviation
MRO & Manufacturing
Boeing Studies 70-Per-Month 737 MAX Production Rate
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg confirms a study into raising 737 MAX output to 70 jets per month, a program record.
The Boeing Company (BA) is evaluating the feasibility of increasing Boeing 737 MAX production to a record 70 aircraft per month, signaling a potential aggressive ramp-up following the lifting of regulatory caps.
During a June 5, 2026, interview on CNBC, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg confirmed the manufacturer is studying the 70-jet monthly rate to assess supply chain resilience and identify potential constraints. According to Reuters, this target would represent the highest production rate in the history of the 737 program and position Boeing closer to the output goals of European rival Airbus SE.
Transitioning production rates and new Everett facility
Boeing is currently in the process of increasing its monthly Boeing 737 MAX output from 42 to 47 aircraft. This transition follows a May 27, 2026, announcement that the manufacturer passed a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) capstone review. The FAA previously capped production at 38 jets per month in January 2024 following a midair door-plug blowout incident on an Alaska Airlines (AS) Boeing 737 MAX 9 on January 5, 2024.
To support the increased volume, Boeing will open a fourth final assembly line in Everett, Washington, on July 6, 2026. Ortberg described the new facility as a replica of the existing Renton, Washington, production lines.
“We’ll be loading our first airplane on July 6, so just about a month from now, we’ll be bringing that line alive,” Ortberg stated, according to Quartz.
The Everett line will initially focus on the Boeing 737 MAX 10 variant. Boeing is currently awaiting FAA certification for both the Boeing 737 MAX 7 and Boeing 737 MAX 10 models, which Ortberg anticipates receiving later this year, as reported by the Lynnwood Times.
Long-term targets and supply chain stability
While the 70-jet rate is under evaluation, Ortberg emphasized that the company’s official long-term production plan remains set at 63 aircraft per month. The Air Current originally reported the internal study regarding the 70-jet target on June 4, 2026, which Ortberg subsequently confirmed.
The manufacturer is prioritizing production stability before committing to further rate increases. Ortberg noted the company will not advance the rate until the production system demonstrates consistent stability.
A successful ramp-up to 70 aircraft per month would narrow the production gap with Airbus SE. The European manufacturer is currently targeting a production rate of 75 Airbus A320neo family aircraft per month by late 2027, though Reuters notes Airbus has faced its own supply chain constraints that have delayed this goal.
AirPro News analysis
Boeing’s public acknowledgment of a 70-aircraft monthly production study indicates growing confidence in its manufacturing recovery following the intense regulatory scrutiny of the past two years. Passing the FAA capstone review in May 2026 was a critical prerequisite for this operational shift. The gap between studying a rate and executing it remains substantial. The aerospace supply chain continues to experience localized bottlenecks. Boeing’s insistence that 63 aircraft per month remains the official target reflects a cautious approach, likely designed to manage expectations with both investors and the FAA while the new Everett line proves its operational capability.
Sources: Reuters
Photo Credit: Boeing
MRO & Manufacturing
ExecuJet Sydney to Launch Falcon 7X C-Checks in 2026
ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia begins Dassault Falcon 7X heavy maintenance C-checks in Sydney from October 2026.
ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia will commence heavy maintenance C-checks for the Dassault Falcon 7X at its Sydney facility in October 2026. The expansion aims to address growing regional demand for major scheduled maintenance on larger Dassault Falcon business jets in the Asia-Pacific region.
In a press release issued on June 3, 2026, the Dassault Aviation subsidiary detailed its investment in specialized tooling and personnel to build local technical capability. This development reduces the need for Asia-Pacific operators to send their aircraft out of the region for mandatory heavy maintenance intervals.
Building local technical capability
The Dassault Falcon 7X requires a C-check every eight years or 4,000 flight cycles. To support this new capability, ExecuJet MRO Services is sending two Sydney-based engineers to FlightSafety International in Paris for specialized airframe and systems training.
The company is also actively recruiting an experienced Dassault Falcon 7X engineer from the Middle East to relocate and join the Sydney team. Grant Ingall, Regional Vice President Australasia for ExecuJet MRO Services, noted that the facility is becoming an increasingly important support location for the manufacturer.
“The combination of skilled people, investment in tooling and growing operator demand gives us a strong platform to further develop our Falcon maintenance capability,” Ingall stated.
Expanding regional Falcon support
The addition of Dassault Falcon 7X heavy maintenance follows recent work on other aircraft types in the manufacturer’s portfolio. ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia recently completed a C-check on a Dassault Falcon 2000, which included a full repaint conducted in collaboration with aircraft repainting specialist Douglas Aerospace.
The Sydney facility has already secured a second Dassault Falcon 2000 C-check scheduled for later in 2026. Ingall highlighted the growing demand for support in the region, particularly for larger aircraft types, adding that local investment allows the company to provide operators with more comprehensive support.
AirPro News analysis
We view this expansion by ExecuJet MRO Services as a strategic alignment with Dassault Aviation’s broader goal of strengthening its global aftermarket footprint. By establishing heavy maintenance capabilities in Sydney, the manufacturer can offer Asia-Pacific operators a more compelling value proposition, minimizing the downtime and ferry flight costs traditionally associated with sending aircraft to Europe or North America for C-checks.
Sources: ExecuJet MRO Services
Photo Credit: ExecuJet MRO Services
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