FL Technics Expands Operations in the UAE with New Line Maintenance Station at DWC

MRO Provider FL Technics is set to further expand its operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with a new line maintenance station at Dubai World Central (DWC)/Al Maktoum International Airport. This move solidifies the position of FL Technics LLC (UAE) as a trustworthy leader in aviation maintenance solutions in the Middle East.

A growing number of airlines and freighter operations are transitioning from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to DWC. FL Technics has therefore strategically decided to open a new line maintenance station in DWC to support the growing demand for MRO services.

According to the Dubai Government, the airport plans to ultimately increase its cargo capacity to 12 million tons per year within the next decade. “All freighters have been relocated from  DXB to DWC due to the predominance of cargo traffic. In response, FL Technics is strategically positioning itself in the area to provide the necessary technical support to airlines. This expansion of operations represents a significant opportunity for us to serve a more extensive clientele within the UAE. FL Technics is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities presented by the UAE’s evolving aviation industry,” notes Arif Alameri, FL Technics managing director.

In addition to maintaining the fleet for Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, FL Technics LLC has signed a contract with another UAE-based airline for services at AUH and DWC, supporting its fleet and providing a range of maintenance services. FL Technics LLC’s current capabilities across UAE include maintenance for Boeing B737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft. 

The new line maintenance station at DWC is a part of FL Technics’ already existing operations in DXB and AUH. The company is working closely with airlines operating in DWC to increase partnerships in the region.

Gov. Kemp: PBS Aerospace Establishes North American HQ in Metro Atlanta 

Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that PBS Aerospace, a designer and manufacturer of world-class small turbojet engines, will invest up to $20 million to establish its North American headquarters, manufacturing, and R&D operations in Roswell. The new operations will create at least 95 new jobs in metro Atlanta, growing the company’s presence in the state. 

“We are excited that PBS Aerospace has chosen to stay in Georgia to increase their footprint and establish their first R&D and headquarter facilities in the United States,” said Governor Brian Kemp.“Aerospace is one of the Georgia’s top industries thanks to innovative companies like PBS Aerospace that call Georgia home. By preparing strategic, new ready-for-development sites and supporting workforce development initiatives in high-demand careers, we will keep building on our success and creating opportunities for hardworking Georgians.” 

PBS Aerospace is an international manufacturer of turbojet engines and auxiliary power units that has been present in the U.S. market for more than a decade. 

“PBS Group’s owner, William Didden, made the decision to establish Georgia as the location for our U.S. headquarters because of the successful foundation we have built in Atlanta through PBS Aerospace,” said Tomas Koutsky, managing director of PBS Aerospace. “Atlanta has proven to be an exceptional base for our operations, offering access to an excellent education system, skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and a thriving business environment. The positive experiences and success in Atlanta have undoubtedly influenced our choice as they reflect Georgia’s ability to support our continued growth.” 

“We look forward to building our new Roswell factory, which will produce the world’s most advanced small turbojet engines designed to meet the needs of the U.S. Department of Defense,” said Erin Durham, CEO of PBS Aerospace. “This move aligns seamlessly with our larger growth strategy, which focuses on partnering with Georgia’s extensive manufacturing, aerospace, and defense sectors.” 

PBS Aerospace’s footprint will include an existing, renovated building at 1350 North Meadow and a new facility that will be constructed at the Tech Village North Site in Roswell. Hiring is underway for open roles, with projections to meet full operations in April 2025.

“Roswell offers the perfect environment for innovative companies like PBS Aerospace to thrive, and their decision reflects the strength of our community and our commitment to fostering economic growth,” said Roswell Mayor Kurt Wilson. “Our city is a sought-after destination, not only for businesses but also for families, thanks to our exceptional schools, safe neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and the strong sense of community our residents share. We are proud to welcome PBS Aerospace to Roswell and look forward to their success and contributions to our city’s future.” 

“Fulton County is a hub for innovative business operations like PBS Aerospace,” said Robb Pitts, chairman of Fulton County Board of Commissioners. “This significant development not only strengthens our position as a destination for advanced manufacturing and aerospace technology but also brings tangible benefits to residents in nearby cities through job creation and economic opportunity.” 

“Metro Atlanta is where top talent meets opportunity. We are pleased to welcome PBS Aerospace as a vital part of our growing aerospace and defense ecosystem,” said Katie Kirkpatrick, president & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “University graduates here have seamless access to thriving industries like aerospace – which is Georgia’s No. 1 export and a $57.5 billion powerhouse industry in the state. This new presence will help fuel our regional economy and strengthen our local and global relationships.” 

Statewide Project Manager Haley Casola represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the City of Roswell, Select Fulton, Metro Atlanta Chamber, Georgia Quick Start, the Georgia Center of Innovation, and Georgia Power. 

“PBS Aerospace first landed in the U.S. through Georgia, so it’s incredibly exciting that the company has chosen to expand on its presence here to establish not only its North American headquarters but also its first manufacturing and R&D operations in the U.S.,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Today’s news is the result of investing in our relationships at home and internationally, taking the time to ensure companies have a great experience working with the state at their existing locations and taking the initiative to meet with company leadership in-person to learn more about their plans for the future. Congratulations to PBS Aerospace for expanding in the U.S. market, and to all of the partners involved in bringing the opportunity for a job to Georgians through this investment!” 

Finalists of the Crystal Cabin Awards 2025: New Innovations For the Future of Flight

The Crystal Cabin Award program is set to celebrate ground-breaking achievements in passenger experience at its annual ceremony on April 8, 2025, during the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany. These coveted trophies recognize game-changing advancements shaping the future of air travel comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. Scores of entries spanning major airlines, suppliers, manufacturers and design firms from across the globe were narrowed down to 22 finalists across seven categories by a jury of industry experts. Among the new categories are “Accessibility” and “Judges’ Choice: Airline Innovation.”. All finalists have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to enhancing the passenger journey through ingenious cabin solutions and cutting-edge technology. 

Cabin Technologies
This new category unites innovations around systems, components and materials, providing exciting insights into the future of the aircraft cabin. Collins Aerospace has entered “Galley.ai”, an intelligent and connected technological ecosystem that optimizes crew efficiency by streamlining galley management and enabling frictionless communication between crew and passengers via artificial intelligence. Diehl Aviation aims to revolutionize cabin interiors with “eDecor”, a customizable, energy-efficient décor that enhances both brand presence and passenger comfort, changing the cabin’s appearance on the fly. Invisible when not in use, Lufthansa Technik’s “Hidden Touch Display” is a customizable touch panel that integrates into any cabin’s design, delivering an effortless user experience while maintaining a sleek, uncluttered look.

Judges’ Choice: Airline Innovation
For the 2025 season, the Crystal Cabin Award features a new category that recognizes the decisive role that airlines play in advancing the passenger experience ecosystem. Selecting from entries by four of the world’s leading airlines, the judging panel will be asked to honor one innovation with a special “Judges’ Choice” award. The four airline innovations up for consideration were submitted by Air France, Air India, Cathay Pacific and United Airlines. The entry from Air France encompasses new cabins for the Embraer 190 single-aisle aircraft that are due to enter live service in early 2025. The cabin features new leather seats by French manufacturer Expliseat that are 30% lighter than the current model. Air India’s entry is Vista, an IFE system designed to prioritize the personal needs of the customer and offer a connected and immersive experience above the clouds. “Gallery In The Skies” by Cathay Pacific puts unique works of art into bespoke gallery spaces aboard its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, using design features to create an inspiring art viewing experience in the air. United Airlines’ new digital platform – “United’s Onboard Digital Experience” – is centered on delivering a personalized experience and relevant information to enable customers to feel informed, at ease and in control of their travel experience on over 1,000 aircraft.

Passenger Comfort
The innovations in this category serve one purpose: A relaxed, enjoyable and care-free experience for air passengers. The Airbus “A220 Airspace Cabin” extends the airframer’s Airspace cabin concept to the smallest member of its commercial airliner fleet, adding XL overhead bins, Airspace lighting designs and improved power supply for passengers’ devices. Cathay Pacific, JPA Design and Reactor have turned their attention to integrating business suite functionality into the IFEC system of its Aria Suite with “IFEC: In-Flight Entertainment & Control”, giving passengers control over many functions directly within the entertainment system’s interface. Long-haul ergonomics are at the center of Comfort Motion Global’s “Healthy Motion Seating” entry; this software proactively makes subtle adjustments to positions of seats fitted with electric motors to reduce fatigue and discomfort on long-distance journeys. 

IFEC and Digital Services
Seamless connectivity and personalised content delivery have become key drivers of passengers’ perception of service quality on their journey. Focussed on the needs of VIP passengers travelling on Boeing 737s, Lufthansa Technik, Satcom Direct and IDAIR have collaborated on “Triple Innovation For A Five Star Cabin Experience”, a combination of a low-drag, tailfin-mounted radome, an electronically steered LEO antenna solution and an integrated content delivery system designed to maximize operational effectiveness, project value and in-cabin experience for the VIPs. Safran Cabin has entered “Safran Connected Interiors” to the award in 2025. Using internet-of-things technology, the system autonomously captures and transfers operational data across cabin equipment to provide a fully digitalized, retrofit-ready maintenance solution. Thales Avionics’ entry, “360Stream”, is firmly dedicated to providing the same standard of seamless content delivery as we experience on the ground. 360Stream provides access to “happening now” live content and for the first time offers Digital Video Recording (DVR) capability, as well as near-live updates and highlights of live events. 

Sustainable Cabin
Sustainability is a key area of innovation for the Crystal Cabin Award, recognizing an industry-wide movement towards saving emissions, reducing waste and introducing circularity into processes and products. Boeing, Adient Aerospace, Botany Weaving and LanzaTech have teamed up to enter “From Waste Carbon to Cabin Comfort: Bringing Circularity to Aircraft Textiles”. Using carbon capture technology, the system transforms carbon emissions into sustainable fabric for the aircraft interiors industry, providing multiple ways of reducing the environmental footprint of textile production. Diehl Aviation has chosen to concentrate on materials circularity for its 2025 entry, “ECO bin”. Billed as the world’s first fully recyclable overhead stowage compartment, it features a specially developed recyclable sandwich material and reduces environmental impact by saving weight and CO2 emissions. Completing the three finalists for the Sustainable Cabin category in 2025 is Unum Aircraft Seating, whose entry “Ecoprint Refoam” utilises additive manufacturing techniques to create a lightweight, re-cyclable replacement for traditional polyurethane foam stacks in aircraft seating.

Accessibility
Innovation to ensure the same quality of air travel for everyone has become an area of growing focus with in the aviation industry. To reflect this important trend, Accessibility is now a separate award category at the Crystal Cabin Awards in its own right. Cathay Pacific has reached the final with an innovation to make its Aria Suite business seat more accessible for wheelchair users. Titled “Seamless Accessibility”, the concept integrates a movable door garage specifically created to make transitioning from a wheelchair to a passenger seat easier. Collins Aerospace’s entry “Prime+” is a cabin platform system for wheelchair users that enables them to fly while seated in their wheelchairs, completely removing the need to move from a wheelchair to an installed seat. “Space³” by Diehl Aviation adopts a flexible approach to accommodate wheelchair users in aircraft lavatory areas, incorporating several features such as foldable doors and sinks, while saving up to 80kg of weight.

University
A hotbed of innovation, the university category opens up the Crystal Cabin Award to blue-sky concepts from university students. Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW) cooperated with Diehl Aviation on “Single Aisle Lavatory Door 1 – Accessibility for all”. The concept is designed to enhance accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility on single aisle aircraft in the lavatory space in a way that allows users to travel more comfortably and independently. The lavatory features a spacious layout that accommodates an onboard wheelchair and provides sufficient room for a support person, ensuring dignity and ease of use. “Ultra-lightweight Display System” by students from Tongji University in cooperation with Boeing leverages miniature projectors and gesture recognition technology to deliver a new in-flight entertainment system (IFES) experience for both airlines and passengers. Each projector can use surfaces like seatbacks, tray tables, windows and cabin partitions to display flight information or video content. The students of UDIT Universidad de Diseño, Innovación y Tecnología in cooperation with Iberia in Madrid entered “R.A.I.S.S.”, or Restroom Autonomous In-flight Sanitising System. This robotic system collects and cleans the floor after each use, and incorporates additional highlights such as an interactive screen, an island-format sink, and a self-cleaning toilet system.

The Innovations of The Year: Gala Award Ceremony on 8 April 2025 in Hamburg

The Crystal Cabin Award, an initiative of the Hamburg Aviation cluster, is awarded this year in seven categories: Cabin Technologies, Passenger Comfort, IFEC & Digital Services, Sustainable Cabin, University and Judges Choice Airline Innovation.

The finalists will have the opportunity to present their concepts in person to the jury at the world’s leading trade fair for aircraft cabins, the Aircraft Interiors Expo (8 – 10 April 2025 in Hamburg). The winners of the 2025 Crystal Cabin Awards will be announced on the evening of 8 April at a gala dinner at the 5-star Grand Elysee Hamburg hotel. 

Mankiewicz Presents Sustainable Lightweight Layers

At AIX, Mankiewicz will present a 3-in-1 lightweight solution: ALEXIT FST PrimeFill. It is a pore filler, primer, and filler in one, saving time during application and weight during operation. Another notable sustainability feature is, that it is a water-based product that eliminates the intermediate drying time between filler and primer.

These technical advances do not affect the decorative effect of the final layer. Without compromising the visual appearance, ALEXIT FST PrimeFill is a lightweight solution that even helps to prevent the so-called telegraphing effect. Regardless of whether the airline is looking for a high quality design effect finish or a long lasting, highly economical textured surface, PrimeFill is the enabler for a high performance finish.

PrimeFill

When it comes to making aviation more sustainable, every kilogram counts. Multiply the weight savings of each aircraft by the size of the fleet, and you will have a significant sustainability impact.

Finishing touch in one layer

Focusing on the final layer in combination with process advantages, ALEXIT FST SelfTex is a efficient and high-quality one layer system to create uniform textures. You can achieve outstanding visual effects in a wide color and effect range. The self-texturing topcoat is available in metallic, translucent, frosted glass effect as well as in solid colors.

The textures directly from the spray gun are applicable as water and solvent based system and they come along with FST properties and durability in regard to abrasion and scratch resistance.

The lightweight duo helps to optimize process times and minimize the layer structure. And it is only one of many developments that Mankiewicz has driven forward in the last decade to contribute to environmental protection and sustainability. Mankiewicz will be exhibiting its latest highlights at AIX, stand 7E40.





































HAECO and Panasonic Avionics Extend Component MRO Relationship

HAECO Component Overhaul and Panasonic Avionics are pleased to announce a five-year extension of their repair service agreement (Authorized Repair Center in the Chinese mainland), further solidifying their successful relationship that began in 2011. This renewed agreement underscores both companies’ dedication to delivering high-quality maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for Panasonic Avionics’ advanced components, ensuring the reliability and safety standards expected by their customers.

Bobo Ko, general manager of HAECO Component Overhaul, said, “Our long-standing relationship with Panasonic Avionics Corporation is a testament to our mutual commitment to excellence and innovation. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration and delivering superior MRO services to Panasonic Avionics and their customers.”

Tom Eskola, vice president, Panasonic Technical Services at Panasonic Avionics, added, “We are delighted to extend our agreement with HAECO Component Overhaul, a trusted collaborator since 2011. Their exceptional service and dedication to quality are critical to our mission of providing the best in-flight entertainment and connectivity solutions.”

HAECO offers a wide range of repair and overhaul solutions for aircraft components from its purpose-built facilities in Hong Kong and Xiamen. In addition to repairs for individual components, these workshops facilitate the closed-loop repair of components from HAECO’s airframe maintenance checks and on-wing engine services. Both facilities operate with approvals from major aviation bodies.

The extended agreement is effective immediately, ensuring seamless and uninterrupted service for Panasonic Avionics’ customers worldwide.

New General Manager at MTU Maintenance Dallas

MTU Maintenance appointed Gernot Sell general manager of MTU Maintenance Dallas Inc. effective 1st February, 2025. He takes over from Nezam Moghadassian, who is retiring from the company. The facility completed nearly 300 maintenance events in 2024. In addition to on-site and near-wing services, it is specialized in performing hospital shop visits and quick turns for aero engines, as well as field service for industrial gas turbines. Furthermore, MTU Maintenance Dallas now boasts a certified test cell for CFM56-7B engines and it established a parts warehouse for MTU Maintenance Lease Services B.V. in 2024.

“We thank Nezam for all his hard work over the years and wish him all the best and a very happy retirement,” says André Sinanian, SVP and Managing Director MTU Maintenance Berlin-Brandenburg and responsible for the operations of MTU’s global on-site and field service network. “We are delighted to have found an experienced replacement in Gernot and look forward to the strategic growth of the facility under his leadership.” Sell has been with MTU Maintenance in various operational positions including in the quality, engineering and value stream departments for over eight years and brings a wealth of leadership experience, including over 10 in various leadership positions in German Air Force flying units.

STARLUX Commits To Viasat With Launch Of EnhancedIn-Flight Connectivity Service

Taipei-headquartered luxury carrier STARLUX and Viasat announced STARLUX aircraft
has launched enhanced service with Viasat’s high performance in-flight connectivity (IFC) solution, marking an expanded relationship. The phased rollout of Viasat’s high-speed, reliable in-flight Wi-Fi service will span STARLUX’s entire active fleet.

In total, 48 aircraft, including Airbus A330-900s, A321neos, A350-900 and A350-1000 aircraft will install or transition to Viasat’s most advanced connectivity system, based on the ViaSat-3 compatible and multi-orbit ready high-performance GM-40 terminal solution. The rollout will encompass both factory installs and expedited retrofits.

Driven by the commitment to passenger-centric innovation, STARLUX distinguishes itself as one of the first airlines in the Asia Pacific region to adopt and deploy Viasat’s cutting-edge solution and onboard enablement platform for an exceptional passenger Wi-Fi experience while in-flight. Since its launch in 2018, STARLUX has consistently prioritized a premium travel experience, and the selection of Viasat’s latest and industry-leading IFC solution, enabled by its resilient multi-orbit satellite roadmap, for the carrier’s entire fleet underscores this dedication.

With Viasat’s high-capacity Ka-band satellite network over the Asia Pacific region, expected to soon include one of Viasat’s next generation ViaSat-3 satellites, passengers on STARLUX flights will be able to stream their favorite movies and shows, browse the internet, stay connected with loved ones through messaging apps, and maintain productivity while traveling onboard any STARLUX aircraft.

“Viasat is proud to partner with STARLUX, an airline that shares our passion for innovation and customer
satisfaction,” said Don Buchman, senior vice president and GM, commercial aviation at Viasat. “Through this expanded relationship, we look forward to not only providing high quality connectivity, but a comprehensive solution with the capability and flexibility to empower STARLUX to create an advanced, refined connected experience that suits its ambitions and goals.”

STARLUX says it has the world’s youngest fleet, currently averaging 2.06 years old, and the company says their focus is on passenger comfort and well-being. It operates an all-Airbus fleet that blends luxury with authentic Taiwanese heritage, for which Viasat’s enhanced connectivity services will now form a crucial part of this high-end journey.

Initially, Viasat-enabled aircraft will service major Asian transport hubs, including: Taipei, Singapore, Jakarta, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Manila, Macau, Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Sendai, and Hong Kong.

Iberia Maintenance Showcases Overhaul and Repair of Pratt & Whitney GTF Engines

Iberia Maintenance welcomed Rob Griffiths, senior vice president of commercial engines operations at Pratt & Whitney, at its facilities in La Muñoza, Madrid. Enrique Robledo, director of Iberia Maintenance, and Eylo González Merino, director of engines, led this visit in which the ties between the two companies were strengthened. 

During the meeting, Griffiths was able to see first-hand the technical and operational capabilities of Iberia Maintenance, which is already at full capacity to overhaul and repair Pratt & Whitney GTF engines.

This visit marks a milestone in Iberia Maintenance’s plan to strengthen its position as a reference center for aeronautical maintenance in southern Europe. The Pratt & Whitney GTF engine, which stands out for its fuel efficiency, is positioned as one of the main options for powering short-haul fleets in the coming decades. 

“It is a great opportunity to show Pratt & Whitney leaders first-hand our facilities of more than 220,000 square meters dedicated to aeronautical maintenance and, in particular, how the GTF has been successfully introduced in our Engine Shop,” said Enrique Robledo, director of Iberia Maintenance. “This meeting reinforces our mutual trust and our position in the region for the maintenance of these engines. This milestone not only reflects our commitment to technical excellence, but also to innovation and sustainability, fundamental pillars of the aeronautical industry of the future.” 
 

Spirit AeroSystems Shareholders Approve Acquisition by Boeing

Spirit AeroSystems Holdings announced at the special meeting of its shareholders held earlier on Friday, January 31, 2025 its shareholders voted to approve the proposed acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems by The Boeing Company. The transaction, announced last summer, is expected to close in mid-2025, subject to closing conditions including the receipt of regulatory approvals.

“Our shareholder’s resounding approval today represents an important milestone in our carefully planned merger with Boeing,” said Irene Esteves, Spirit AeroSystems chief financial officer. “As we continue executing our transition plan, we remain focused on Spirit’s foundational principles of safety, compliance and quality.”

Spirit will continue to operate as an independent company until the transaction closes.

FCAH Aerospace Welcomes Amy Merkley and Mike Abram

FCAH Aerospace welcomed Amy Merkley as their new chief operating officer of MRO Operations. Merkley is a seasoned industry leader with a history of driving operational excellence, building teams, and spearheading strategic growth initiatives. In her role, she will oversee maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, ensuring customer expectations are met while enhancing operational efficiency.

The company also introduced Mike Abram as the president of Cobalt Aero Services, headquartered in Hot Springs, Arkansas. FCAH Aerospace says Abram’s leadership experience and commitment to customer satisfaction uniquely position him to guide Cobalt Aero Services through its next chapter of growth.

“These appointments mark a pivotal moment for FCAH Aerospace as we continue to elevate our leadership and capabilities,” says Isac Roths, CEO, FCAH Aerospace. “Amy and Mike are dynamic leaders whose expertise and passion align perfectly with our mission to deliver outstanding value to our customers. Their contributions will drive innovation, strengthen our market position, and take FCAH Aerospace to new heights. Together, Amy and Mike bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and leadership that will undoubtedly enhance our organization’s success and reinforce our commitment to excellence in the aviation industry

Please join us in congratulating Amy and Mike on their new roles and supporting them as they lead FCAH Aerospace into an exciting future.