The agreement covers both cargo and growing passenger operations, marking ACL Airshop’s official expansion into the Indian subcontinent.

The partnership will involve the supply and management of the IndiGo ULD fleet to meet their current and future operations. The deal also includes maintenance and repair services, access to the ACL Airshop network and short-term fleet, as well as bring next generation tracking technology to the IndiGo ULD fleet. 

“We are very pleased to announce this strategic partnership with one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines,” said Bernhard Kindelbacher, CEO of ACL Airshop. “This collaboration not only reinforces our position as a global ULD management services leader but also allows us to support IndiGo wherever their growth journey takes them.” 

Mark Sutch, chief commercial officer - Cargo at IndiGo, commented: “As our requirement for ULDs grows, we are delighted to be partnering with ACL Airshop and appreciate that they could quickly and efficiently respond to IndiGo’s requirements and were fully operational in a short span of just two months.”

Base maintenance checks are the most detailed inspection events in an aircraft’s life, covering everything from the structure and avionics to the hydraulic systems and flight controls, often revealing a variety of defects for the MRO to rectify.During this inspection, the Falcon Technic team carried out structural repairs for corrosion found on the wing trailing edge and dry bay areas.

The eight strong dedicated team of engineers provided over 2,000 man-hours of expertise to the project and before returning to operations, the aircraft underwent a further handling flight to verify its performance, which was completed without a single issue being reported by the flight crew, confirming its readiness for full operations.The aircraft was returned to service on Aug.9 fully inspected, repaired, and ready to take to the skies again for Falcon.

“When an aircraft comes into Falcon Technic, it leaves stronger, safer, and ready for the skies. That’s true for our fleet, and it’s true for every customer who chooses us. This inspection is proof of what our team can do.” said Sultan Rashit Abdulla Rashit Al Shene, Founder & Chairman of Alex Group Investment.

The next major inspection for A6-AFC is scheduled after a further 500 flight hours.

Was aviation your childhood aspiration or a surprising turn in your career?

To be honest, aviation was neither my childhood dream nor my first career choice. However, once I discovered this industry, I quickly realised how well it aligned with my values, interests, and professional expectations. I admire the industry's demand for precision, its fast pace, and the level of responsibility it requires. The dynamic environment in aviation pushes you to constantly adapt to changes. Working in the Technical Training Team at FL Technics, I contribute to a clear and important goal – to grow a market of qualified, responsible, and professionally prepared specialists.

What does it mean for you to be part of a global team?

I've always found working in an international environment highly appealing. It offers the chance to move beyond familiar boundaries, see more, learn faster, and grow alongside the industry. FL Technics offers exactly that – the opportunity to work globally, learn from professionals, and share diverse experiences.

Relocating to Dubai changed my work dynamics significantly. While working in Lithuania, I already engaged with clients in the Middle East and Africa. But being in Dubai opened an entirely new perspective. I'm now much closer to my clients and partners, I feel the pulse of the market, and I can respond quickly. Being based in the UAE allows for faster decision-making and easier client access, providing a competitive edge.

I'm grateful that working in an international environment helps me grow both professionally and personally. FL Technics is a rapidly expanding company that genuinely invests in its people, encourages continuous learning, and fosters skill development.

You work with clients from various regions. Have you had to adapt to cultural differences?

Regional nuances definitely exist – I noticed them even while working from Lithuania and interacting with clients from the Middle East and Africa. These regions place a strong emphasis on long-term cooperation and trust, which means decisions may take longer, but they're made thoughtfully and confidently.

Moving to Dubai allowed me to deepen these insights practically. I’ve learned to manage specific situations more effectively. My priorities include clear communication, disciplined process management, and strategic collaboration. These skills enable efficient project execution and help build strong relationships across cultures.

Dubai is often seen as an open, cosmopolitan city. Has your personal experience confirmed that it's welcoming to international professionals?

Absolutely. Dubai is one of the most open and international cities in the world, actively attracting professionals from various fields. It brings together diverse cultures, business mindsets, and innovations, offering unique opportunities for both professional and personal growth.

That said, succeeding in such an environment requires openness and flexibility. You must be able to adapt quickly, build new connections, and collaborate. I believe this kind of experience is valuable not just for early-career specialists but also for experienced professionals.

Your team is diverse. Are there any unwritten rules or principles that help you work better together?

Within the team, we share an unspoken agreement that always helps us – to work responsibly, professionally, and with enthusiasm. Dedication, passion, meticulousness, and a strong sense of responsibility are qualities that unite us. But we also know when to pause, relax, and enjoy time together. That balance creates a special atmosphere within our team.

Aviation is still often viewed as a "male-dominated" industry. Have you faced this stereotype, and how do you respond?

It’s true – aviation is still largely seen as a male-dominated field, and the statistics reflect that. But I'm encouraged by the increasing number of global initiatives and campaigns promoting women in aviation.

Personally, I don’t spend much time dwelling on stereotypes. I believe that motivation, professionalism, and persistence are the key factors for success. If you know your goals and pursue them consistently, external perceptions become less important. What matters most are the results I strive for every day.

What advice would you give to women taking their first steps in aviation?

My biggest advice would be to stay open-minded and keep learning. Aviation is complex and ever-changing, which accelerates your growth and helps you become an expert. It’s also vital to have mentors who help shape your strategic thinking and develop professional skills.

Understand that aviation is a long-term investment in your knowledge and capabilities. Be patient, persistent, and clear about your goals. These are the foundations of long-term success.

One fully operational, MASIL will provide a full suite of aviation services at OSM, under a new 10-year license, further strengthening its footprint in the region. This builds on MASIL’s operations at Baghdad International Airport (BGW).

MASIL provided ground services for the presidential flight that signified the official reopening of OSM. The flight, attended by Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, represented a landmark moment in the airport’s history, which has been non-operational since 2014.

The milestone underscores the joint venture’s capabilities and readiness to support future air traffic at the revitalised airport.

Mosul International Airport has undergone extensive reconstruction and is now equipped with a main terminal, VIP lounge, and advanced radar surveillance system. The airport is expected to be fully operational within the coming months, supporting both domestic and international flights and handling an estimated 630,000 passengers annually.

The expansion marks a significant milestone in the continued growth of the MASIL joint venture across Iraq and demonstrates Menzies’ commitment to supporting the country’s aviation infrastructure and long-term development.

Charles Wyley, executive vice president Middle East, Africa and Asia, Menzies Aviation, said: "We’re proud to expand our presence in Iraq with new operations at Mosul International Airport through our MASIL joint venture. This is a major step in our journey to support the redevelopment of Iraq’s aviation sector and bring world-class standards to the country’s airports. Handling the presidential flight was a privilege and a clear signal of MASIL’s professionalism and reliability as a trusted service provider."

Menzies Aviation and Iraqi Airways formed MASIL in 2021 to provide ground handling, cargo, and fuelling services. The joint venture includes operations at key airports including Baghdad and will soon include Mosul, as it continues to support the modernisation of Iraq’s aviation sector.

The agreement establishes a long-term contract that reflects strong trust and technical alignment between the two parties. The deal includes comprehensive APU services designed to ensure optimal fleet availability and long-term operational efficiency for Riyadh Air. Under this agreement, EPCOR will provide Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul, and Modification services, as well as APS5000 availability, On-wing Support and Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) coverage plus advanced Predictive Maintenance services of Prognos  for APU.

Building for Growth with Reliability

The support package was designed through close collaboration between engineering and commercial teams from both companies, resulting in a customised, end-to-end maintenance solution. The agreement provides long-term reliability for Riyadh Air in line with their expansion plans.

Heidi Haveman, managing director of EPCOR, stated: "This partnership transcends a mere service agreement; it embodies a growing relationship founded on mutual trust and a shared commitment to operational excellence.

We are honoured to support Riyadh Air in their endeavour to establish a world-class airline and look forward to leveraging our extensive expertise in APS5000 maintenance to contribute to their visionary goals."

Martin Eiba Acting COO at Riyadh Air said: “At Riyadh Air, our goal is to deliver an exceptional passenger experience powered by reliability and innovation. This long-term partnership with EPCOR ensures that our fleet receives the highest standard of technical support from one of the most respected names in APU maintenance. It also demonstrates our commitment to building enduring global relationships aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.”

This news reflects Falcon Technic’s continued growth and its commitment to providing certified, high-quality maintenance solutions for a wider range of business aircraft in the United Arab Emirates. The Falcon 900EX EASy is a long-range business jet, widely recognised for its performance and advanced avionics.

“Our pursuit of excellence is part of our standard. At Falcon Technic, every expansion is intentional and every approval hard-earned. Adding the Falcon 900EX EASy to our scope is a clear statement of our commitment to lead, to serve this region and to keep pushing the limits of what we can deliver,” said Mr. Sultan Rashit Abdulla Rashit Al Shene, Founder & Chairman of Alex Group Investment.

With this new capability, Falcon Technic can now support operators and owners of this aircraft with fast and compliant line maintenance directly from its base at Falcon’s 13,705 sqm hangar facility.

The facilities include a new component maintenance workshop, a central warehouse, and a 2-Bay general maintenance hangar.

The new infrastructure is set to be a game changer in enhancing operational efficiency and reinforcing Ethiopian’s position as the leading MRO service provider on the continent.

Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines said: “The completion of these advanced MRO facilities significantly enhances our technical capability and reinforces our position as a key player on the global stage. With expanded capabilities and cutting- edge systems, we are now better equipped to deliver efficient, high-quality maintenance services for both our growing fleet and third-party operators.” He added, “As we strengthen our infrastructure, we reaffirm our dedication to supporting Africa’s aviation renaissance and solidifying Ethiopia’s place as a continental hub for world-class aviation services and sustainable growth.”

With a total investment exceeding USD 150 million, and a construction timeline of three years, the development was executed in partnership with China National Aero- Technology International Engineering Corporation (CAIEC), China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), and DAR Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) for the construction of the three facilities.

The newly inaugurated facilities mark a significant leap in Ethiopian MRO’s technical infrastructure and service capability. Ethiopian MRO Services already has over 1200 components in its FAA approved component repair capability list. In addition, the new Component Maintenance Workshop brings specialised shops for B737 & Q400 main and nose landing gear repair, ATE, IDG, ACM, as well as ATS Components adding over 170 new components in the existing capability list. This expansion strengthens support for both the airline’s fleet and the broader aviation community across the continent and beyond.

The addition of two wide body General Maintenance Hangars brings the total number of hangars at Ethiopian MRO to eight, significantly increasing capacity for comprehensive aircraft maintenance.

Meanwhile, the Central Warehouse, with a built-up area of 15,000 m2 and a storage volume of 25,500 m3, incorporates an advanced Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), enhancing the efficiency of spare parts management and supporting smoother maintenance operations.

This acquisition reflects AerFin’s progressive approach to aviation asset management, strengthening its commitment to providing high-quality Used Serviceable Material (USM) and extending the operational life of aviation components to support airlines, lessors and MROs worldwide. By dismantling these A320neo aircraft, AerFin is significantly expanding its inventory, addressing the increasing demand for USM as airlines seek efficient, lower-cost alternatives to new parts. 

The A320neo family has become one of the most successful narrowbody aircraft platforms in aviation history, with over 10,000 orders and widespread adoption by operators worldwide. AerFin’s acquisition of these 2017 vintage aircraft from Aviation Capital Group (ACG) presents a key opportunity to support active fleets by making high-quality parts available in an aftermarket where demand exceeds supply.

Simon Goodson, CEO of AerFin, said: “This is a landmark moment for AerFin and a testament to our expertise in the aviation aftermarket. The acquisition of these A320neo aircraft highlights our ability to secure high-value assets and provide airlines with sustainable, cost-effective solutions. Our customers rely on us for quality, reliability and innovation, and this deal strengthens our ability to deliver exactly that.” 

As AerFin continues to expand its global footprint and technical capabilities, this transaction underscores its ability to identify and execute complex deals that drive value for the aviation industry.

Auvinash Narayen, chief investment officer at AerFin, added: “This acquisition is a strategic move that reinforces our ability to source and manage premium aviation assets. The A320neo aircraft represent an important addition to our portfolio, and this deal reflects our agility and expertise in navigating complex transactions.

“We’re excited about the opportunities this opens up - not just for AerFin, but for our customers worldwide.”

Carter White, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, Aviation Capital Group said: “This transaction with AerFin represents a significant step in the evolution of the aviation aftermarket, and we are pleased to have partnered with AerFin on the sale of these four A320neo airframes. 

“AerFin’s innovative approach to aftermarket solutions aligns with our focus on dynamic portfolio management and creating value at any time across the aircraft lifecycle. We are proud to support this milestone initiative and look forward to future collaboration with the AerFin team.”

The multimillion dollar facility, set to complete construction in the last quarter of 2026, will ensure an increased level of control and quicker maintenance turnaround for the carrier’s growing fleet.

Spread over 32,600 square metres, the maintenance centre will house an aircraft hangar, support workshops and office buildings. The construction of the Aircraft Maintenance Centre underscores flydubai’s dedication to strengthening its inhouse capabilities and reflects the carrier’s growing maturity as it expands its fleet and network.

His Excellency Khalifa Al Zaffin, executive chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, said: “We are proud to witness the groundbreaking of flydubai’s new aircraft maintenance centre at Dubai South, a key milestone that reflects the airline’s continued growth and operational advancement. This facility reinforces our commitment to supporting the aviation sector through state-of-the-art infrastructure and to further positioning Dubai as a leading global hub for aviation.”

Ghaith Al Ghaith, chief executive officer at flydubai, said: “this investment marks a significant milestone for flydubai. Since launching operations in 2009, we have made great strides in enhancing connectivity and driving innovation, and the development of our new Aircraft Maintenance Centre will play a key role in the next chapter of our growth journey. This is a strategic step towards supporting our growing maintenance requirement and capacity as we take delivery of more aircraft, and reaffirms our long-term commitment to innovation, operational efficiency and supporting Dubai’s position as a global leader in aviation and business excellence.”

The carrier signed an agreement with MBRAH for its first purpose-built Aircraft Maintenance Centre at the 2023 Dubai Airshow. Located in Dubai South, the district offers an aviation and logistics ecosystem that makes it an ideal location for the carrier’s facility. The maintenance centre will be situated near Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), set to become the world’s largest airport upon completion.

Tailored to support flydubai’s ambitious growth plans, the new maintenance centre will be home to the carrier’s expanding team of more than 600 skilled engineers working in Line Maintenance, Technical Services, Materials and Workshops, tasked with guaranteeing the safety and airworthiness of flydubai’s fleet.

MBRAH offers global aerospace players investment opportunities and is a free-zone destination for the world’s leading airlines, private jet companies, MROs, and associated industries. Located in and developed by Dubai South, MBRAH is also home to maintenance centres and training and education campuses. It seeks to strengthen engineering industries to foster the emirate’s vision of becoming a leading aviation hub.

flydubai has partnered with Group AMANA, a leading regional company that specialises in the design-build of industrial and commercial facilities, to deliver a modern facility built to the highest international standards in the heart of Dubai South.

Linas Dovydėnas, Chapman Freeborn IMEA President sheds light on how ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) solutions can transform African aviation.

ACMI – a solution gaining traction

With Africa's young and rapidly growing population seeking more opportunities for travel, air traffic in the region is expected to rise by an average of 6.4 percent annually, more than tripling by 2043. At the same time, African airlines are facing rising costs and supply chain disruptions that demand flexibility and adaptability to changing market conditions.

ACMI leasing emerges as a strategic response to this surging demand, offering airlines the flexibility to scale operations without the financial burden of aircraft ownership. This wet-leasing model provides airlines with aircraft and crew to handle seasonal peaks or bridge service gaps caused by aircraft maintenance.

There are over 1,500 aircraft available globally for ACMI leasing, with half operated solely under ACMI contracts. However, this capacity remains underutilised by African carriers, according to Dovydėnas:

“Leasing is gaining traction in Africa – African carriers are increasingly reaching out due to supply chain bottlenecks, inability to secure dry leases, and aging fleets. But it's still often viewed as a short-term or emergency solution, which drives up costs.”

This perception creates broader trends, with African airlines approaching ACMI providers just weeks before peak season, leading to inflated prices. Such procurement strategies ultimately undermine the cost-effectiveness that makes ACMI attractive in the first place.

Planning ahead pays off

While African airlines are increasingly adopting ACMI, they still need to shift from last-minute decisions to strategic forward planning. Dovydėnas advocates embracing ACMI not as an emergency fix, but as a long-term strategic tool that can help generate profit:

“Proper planning allows airlines to scale flexibly during peak seasons without committing to year-round fixed costs. We recommend signing ACMI agreements one to three years in advance to secure better pricing and availability.”

Chapman Freeborn is actively working with African airlines and authorities to position ACMI solutions as components of long-term capacity planning. Encouragingly, the company is beginning to see early-stage discussions around multi-year ACMI partnerships, which Dovydėnas views as a positive shift.

Addressing African aviation needs

The panelists addressed a critical market constraint: the availability of aircraft remains extremely tight. Global OEM delivery delays are pushing even mature markets toward ACMI solutions, which reduces the availability of second-hand aircraft flowing into African markets. This creates a complex supply dynamic where traditional acquisition models become increasingly challenging, making ACMI’s on-demand availability particularly valuable for African carriers.

Chapman Freeborn currently supports African airlines with ACMI and cargo services. As part of the world's largest ACMI group, the company provides African airlines with additional aircraft capacity when needed – for busy travel seasons, operational gaps, or unexpected demand surges. The company also plays a significant role in moving cargo across the continent, particularly humanitarian aid and urgent relief supplies to hard-to-reach areas.

“We are working with both airlines and aviation authorities to make it easier and faster for foreign aircraft to get approval to operate in Africa,” Dovydėnas explains. “Our local office in Johannesburg helps us stay close to the market, respond quickly, and build strong relationships across the region. Africa remains a key focus for Chapman Freeborn, and we continue to explore ways to strengthen our partnerships and presence across the continent.”