RTX’s Collins Aerospace and the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force Establish New Military Avionics Service Center

Collins Aerospace, and the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force (RNLASF) have signed a contract to build a new military avionics service center in the Netherlands to support European F-35 and CH-47F fleets.

Under the multi-decade government-owned, contractor-operated partnership, Collins will bring repair expertise and depot technology for the F-35 and the CH-47F. They will also manage the repair supply chain as part of its global military services network.

“Bringing our avionics repair capabilities to the RNLASF Air Support Command (ASC) military base will create substantial operational, logistical and sustainment improvement for our European customers,“ said Brian Barta, vice president and general manager for avionics aftermarket services and support in Avionics at Collins Aerospace. “This new center will complement Pratt & Whitney’s already established F135 engine depot at the ASC, further expanding RTX’s presence in the Netherlands.“

The new center will also complement Collins’ F-35 pilot readiness center in Soesterberg, the Netherlands, establishing a full regional lifecycle sustainment solution for customers in Europe. Additionally, the repair capability will support Collins’ performance based contract with RNLASF to ensure the readiness of the Dutch CH 47F fleet.

“In an increasingly contested logistics environment, ‘Fight tonight, Fight tomorrow, Fight together,’ means positioning the RNLASF for the highest possible mission readiness,“ said Lieutenant General André ‘Jabba’ Steur of the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force. “As we transition to modernized and increasingly complex weapon systems, we will require preparing for the necessary support, infrastructure and maintenance at our military depot facilities. Collaborating with trusted OEMs like Collins Aerospace has proven to be very valuable to our overall mission readiness.“

“Together with Collins Aerospace we will be increasing skills and advancing technical knowhow, in the Netherlands,“ said Secretary of Defense Gijs Tuinman. “This partnership is an example of a strategic collaboration that supports our defense and technological base as we continue to contribute to NATO and its partners.“

Initial depot capability for Collins Aerospace’s avionics military service center is expected in 2026.

EASA Certifies ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia for Falcon 7X/8X Heavy Maintenance

EASA Certifies ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia for Falcon 7X/8X Heavy Maintenance

ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, has further expanded its maintenance capabilities with the additional regulatory approvals from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and U.S. FAA.

EASA has approved the Subang Airport facility to perform line and base maintenance on the Falcon 7X/8X aircraft. The agency has also authorized the organization to conduct a range of non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, including ultrasonic, eddy current, magnetic particle and penetrant testing.

In addition, the U.S. FAA has granted approval for two further NDT methods: ultrasonic and penetrant inspections.

“The Falcon 7X/8X base maintenance approval is significant as there is growing demand from European-registered aircraft operating in or transiting through Asia. EASA certification, widely recognized by civil aviation authorities worldwide, demonstrates we meet the regulator’s rigorous standards,“ says Ivan Lim, regional VP Asia, ExecuJet MRO Services.

“The expanded NDT capability is equally important, as it supports heavy base maintenance checks, helping us to identify structural issues efficiently and reduce disruptive unscheduled downtime,“ he adds.

Rolls-Royce Celebrates the Official Opening of BAESL, its MRO Joint Venture in Beijing, China

Rolls-Royce Celebrates the Official Opening of BAESL, its MRO Joint Venture in Beijing, China

Rolls-Royce celebrated the official opening of Beijing Aero Engine Services Limited (BAESL), its new joint-venture maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility with Air China in early December. The facility complements Rolls-Royce’s existing MRO footprint and addresses growing long-term demand for new civil large engines.

Located in Beijing, BAESL is the first dedicated Trent engine overhaul facility in the Chinese mainland and a significant addition to Rolls-Royce’s global MRO network. The opening of the new facility marks an important step Rolls-Royce is taking in expanding its worldwide widebody engine maintenance capacity and providing more localized support to its customers in China and beyond.

At the opening ceremony, the Civil Aviation Administration of China granted BAESL its maintenance organization certificate (MOC), confirming the facility’s readiness to deliver professional, reliable and high-quality overhaul services on Trent engines. The reveal of the first customer engine entering the shop — witnessed by representatives from Rolls-Royce, along with representatives from the Beijing Municipal Government, the British Embassy, Air China, industry partners, suppliers and customers — marked a brand-new chapter of this state-of-the-art facility.

“The opening of BAESL not only supports our long-term growth in the Chinese market but also contributes to our ambition to significantly increase our global MRO capacity by 2030,“ said Paul Keenan, director – commercial aviation aftermarket operations, Rolls-Royce. “China is one of the largest and fastest growing widebody markets in the world and is also key to Rolls-Royce. We power more than 500 of China’s in-service commercial aircraft; nearly 20% of our global Trent engines were delivered to China. Increasing flying hours, new orders and existing fleet upgrades all lead to growing demand for shop visits, both in China and around the world. Therefore, we’re making bold investments in our global Trent aftermarket network, including BAESL, to remain resilient and keep our customers flying.“

Air China, as China’s sole national flag carrier, is a long-term strategic customer for Rolls-Royce. By establishing BAESL jointly, the two companies have deepened their cooperation. In the meantime, it further enhances Air China’s strategic layout in the aircraft maintenance industry chain, improving its overall fleet operational support capabilities.

As one of four authorized joint-venture overhaul facilities within the Rolls-Royce global services network, BAESL will be an integral part of its worldwide Trent MRO ecosystem, which also consists of two Rolls-Royce maintenance facilities, seven joint-venture or independent authorized maintenance centers, and customer-owned shops.

Starting from 2026, BAESL will begin introducing overhaul capability for Trent 700, Trent XWB-84 and Trent 1000 engines, with capacity expected to ramp up to 250 overhauls per year by 2034.

Airbus Completes Acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems Sites

Airbus recently closed a transaction with Spirit AeroSystems for the acquisition of industrial assets dedicated to its commercial aircraft programs.

“This milestone marks a special moment for all of us at Airbus. We are proud to welcome over 4,000 new colleagues, with whom we will embark on a new chapter in our industrial operations by taking on activities of critical importance to our commercial aircraft programs,“ said Florent Massou, executive vice president operations for the commercial aircraft business of Airbus.

Airbus has taken ownership of the following former Spirit AeroSystems assets:

  • the site of Kinston, North Carolina, U.S. (A350 fuselage sections), joining as Airbus Aerosystems Kinston.
  • the site of Saint-Nazaire, France (A350 fuselage sections), joining as Airbus Atlantic Cadréan.
  • the site of Casablanca, Morocco (A321 and A220 components), joining as Airbus Atlantic Maroc Aero.
  • the production of A220 wings and A220 mid-fuselage in Belfast, Northern Ireland, becoming Airbus Belfast.
  • the production of wing components for A320 and A350 in Prestwick, Scotland, becoming an affiliate named Prestwick Aerosystems.
  • the production of A220 pylons, which will be transferred out of Wichita, Kansas, U.S., to the site of Saint-Eloi, Toulouse, France.

Airbus receives compensation of $439 million, with the typical purchase price adjustments and subject to customary post-closing review. In addition, Airbus receives certain amounts to settle liabilities under the provision of the purchase agreements.

HAECO Extends Heavy Maintenance Contract with Emirates for A380 Aircraft

HAECO Extends Heavy Maintenance Contract with Emirates for A380 Aircraft

HAECO, a leading global provider of comprehensive MRO solutions, is pleased to announce the extension of its base maintenance contract with Emirates for its A380 aircraft through 2030. Under this extended agreement, HAECO will continue to provide heavy maintenance services, including 6Y, 9Y and 12Y checks, at its state-of-the-art facility in Xiamen.

The base maintenance partnership between HAECO and Emirates began in 2024 with the induction of Emirates’ first A380 for its 6Y check in Xiamen. This September, HAECO successfully completed its first 12Y check of an A380 for Emirates on schedule, highlighting HAECO’s technical expertise, and ability to meet the highest industry standards.

Gerald Steinhoff, chief commercial officer of HAECO, said, “We are delighted to continue delivering industry-leading base maintenance services to Emirates, the world’s largest international airline operating the world’s largest A380 fleet. This long-term contract extension underscores the exceptional quality of our service and our proven ability to meet the operational demands of top-tier customers, including those in the Middle East.“

HAECO provides base maintenance services for most aircraft types through its facilities in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. Recently, it was honored “Asia MRO of the Year – Airframe“ at the sixth MRO Asia-Pacific Awards, recognizing its cutting-edge technologies, commitment to sustainable development, and strategic OEM partnerships that enhance reliability and efficiency across its global network.

AAR Extends Exclusive Global Distribution Agreement with Collins Aerospace for Goodrich De-Icing and Specialty Systems Products

AAR has signed a multi-year extension of its exclusive global distribution agreement with Collins Aerospace. The agreement includes the company’s Goodrich de-icing and specialty systems product line.

The collaboration supports Collins Aerospace’s strategy to streamline aftermarket distribution by leveraging AAR’s global logistics network to serve customers across the general aviation, commercial, and defense markets.

“AAR is proud to continue delivering availability, responsiveness, and technical support to the wide range of customers who rely on Collins Aerospace Goodrich de-icing solutions,“ said Frank Landrio, AAR’s senior vice president of distribution. “Our execution and ability to gain market share have resulted in tremendous growth of this product line.“

Wizz Air and Aeroplex Extend Long-Term Line Maintenance Cooperation Budapest

Wizz Air and Aeroplex have signed a new long-term agreement to continue the airline’s line maintenance support in Budapest. Under the 3+2-year contract, Aeroplex will provide ongoing line maintenance services for the Wizz Air fleet based at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport until February 2031.

Aeroplex’s dedicated team delivers daytime technical support and performs nightly inspections up to high-level maintenance tasks to ensure aircraft readiness for early-morning departures. From December 2025, twenty Wizz Air aircraft will be based in Budapest, requiring continuous and coordinated maintenance operations.

In addition to line maintenance, Aeroplex will continue providing material and component logistics support for the airline’s full European fleet. The renewed agreement gives both companies a stable operational framework while allowing room for further cooperation as fleet size and operational needs grow.

“We are pleased to announce the extension of our contract with Aeroplex, our trusted long-term maintenance partner in Budapest,“ said Julia Brix, supply chain officer at Wizz Air. “We greatly value the team’s professionalism in providing technical support and inspections, and we look forward to continuing our successful collaboration in the years ahead.“

Árpád Demény, CEO of Aeroplex added: “We are proud to remain Wizz Air’s maintenance partner in Budapest. This renewed agreement reinforces our commitment to providing reliable technical support for the airline’s daily operations, and we are prepared to expand our cooperation.“

Wizz Air Extends Long-Term Agreement with FL Technics in Romania

Wizz Air Extends Long-Term Agreement with FL Technics in Romania

Wizz Air, one of Europe’s leading carriers, has renewed its long-term cooperation with FL Technics, further strengthening a partnership built on trust, reliability, and shared ambition. The extended agreement covers line maintenance services at Wizz Air’s bases in Bucharest (OTP) and Cluj-Napoca (CLJ). These two bases are at the heart of the airline’s network in the region.

This continued partnership is a signal of long-term alignment between Wizz Air’s growth strategy and FL Technics’ expanding footprint across Europe. Building on more than a decade of cooperation, both companies are looking ahead to a deeper integration of services and stronger operational ties.

“We have been working with Wizz Air for over a decade now. During this time, we have built a very deep understanding of their needs and always support the airline anywhere we can,“ said Saulius Bajarunas, chief operating officer of FL Technics. “Our goals in Romania fully align with Wizz Air’s vision — both of us recognize this region as of strategic importance and plan to invest heavily into future development.“

The extension strengthens FL Technics’ position as a trusted long-term partner for Europe’s most dynamic airlines — combining proximity, flexibility, and a proven record of operational excellence.

FEAM Aero Expands Partnership Network with New Line Maintenance Agreement for Global Crossing Airlines in Miami

FEAM Aero Expands Partnership Network with New Line Maintenance Agreement for Global Crossing Airlines in Miami

FEAM Aero, the largest leading provider of aircraft line maintenance services in the United States, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Global Crossing Airlines (GlobalX). Beginning December 1, 2025, FEAM Aero will provide full line maintenance support for GlobalX at Miami International Airport (MIA), further expanding FEAM’s footprint and capabilities at one of its premier locations.

This partnership emphasizes FEAM Aero’s continued investment in MIA, following the recent opening of its second narrowbody hangar, which has significantly enhanced the company’s ability to support growing airline operations in South Florida. The expanded facilities enable FEAM Aero to provide comprehensive maintenance solutions for a wide range of aircraft types, ensuring operational reliability and efficiency for its airline partners.

“We’re excited to partner with GlobalX as they continue to grow their network and fleet,“ said Dan Allawat, chief strategy officer of FEAM Aero. “Our expanded presence at MIA allows us to deliver the scale, expertise, and responsiveness that carriers like GlobalX require to maintain schedule reliability and meet the highest safety standards.“

The agreement with GlobalX reinforces FEAM Aero’s long-standing reputation as a trusted maintenance partner for both domestic and international airlines. With 50 line maintenance stations worldwide, FEAM Aero continues to invest in infrastructure, technology, and workforce development to support the evolving needs of its customers.

“This collaboration highlights the strength of our expansion strategy,“ said Scott Diaz, vice president of business development and marketing at FEAM Aero. “As we continue to grow our capabilities at MIA and across our network, we remain focused on providing world-class maintenance solutions that support our partners’ operational goals.“

The new partnership at MIA marks another milestone in FEAM Aero’s mission to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality maintenance services backed by decades of technical expertise and a commitment to excellence.

GE Aerospace to Invest $25 Million to Modernize Wales Site

GE Aerospace to Invest $25 Million to Modernize Wales Site

GE Aerospace has announced a $25 million (£19 million) investment over the next three years to refurbish its Wales site, a world-class center for commercial engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations. This major project will enhance critical infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and advance sustainability initiatives, ensuring the site remains a leader in supporting global commercial fleets.

The refurbishment will include upgrades to more than 70,000 square feet of roof space, as well as improvements to building cladding, insulation, and glazing installations. These enhancements will modernize the site’s infrastructure, reduce energy consumption, and create opportunities for renewable energy projects. This investment represents the single largest at the Wales site in over two decades, following the construction of the widebody Test Cell facility in 1999.

“This investment reflects GE Aerospace’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainability,“ said Stephen Edwards, managing director and executive plant leader at GE Aerospace Wales. “By modernizing our infrastructure, we are not only enhancing our capabilities but also creating opportunities to support the next generation of engines and renewable energy projects. This investment secures the future of global operations right here in Wales, the gateway to the European aerospace market.“

The Rt Hon Eluned Morgan MS, the First Minister of Wales, added: “I’m delighted that GE Aerospace has made this long-term commitment to its Nantgarw site and announced it at the Welsh Government’s Wales Investment Summit today. The plant has been a central part of the economy of South Wales for years, providing high quality jobs for generations of Welsh workers. This investment by GE Aerospace is a major vote of confidence in Wales and is great news for the local community, the local supply chain and especially the staff — not just the current workforce, but the workforce of the future.“

As one of Wales’ anchor companies, GE Aerospace plays a vital role in driving employment, skills development, and economic growth in the region. The site employs more than 1,350 highly skilled engineers and technical specialists, serving a global customer base with industry-leading MRO services. GE Aerospace Wales is also home to an award-winning apprenticeship program, which currently has 43 apprentices on roll who are all supported by Coleg y Cymoedd, a local further education provider.

This investment is part of GE Aerospace’s larger strategy to advance infrastructure, skills, and operational excellence across Europe. In October 2024, GE Aerospace announced plans to invest over £107 million into MRO and component repair facilities across Europe through 2026. These investments demonstrate the company’s dedication to building a skilled workforce and supporting the evolving needs of the aerospace industry.