Maintenance

Other topics

Rate

Top story

Off

Article main topic

Airports

Redirected

Off

Moved to features

Off

Lead image:

New batch

Off

Malawi eases the pressure on ExecuJet

pIvanova — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 21:13:13 +0000

Maintenance 27 November 2023

Malawi eases the pressure on ExecuJet

Vince Goncalves, regional vice president Africa at ExecuJet MRO Services spoke about new Embraer certifications in Africa, and navigating the supply chain quandaries in the market.

In July, the Malawi Department of Civil Aviation certified ExecuJet MRO Services Africa to perform line and heavy maintenance on Malawi-registered Embraer ERJ-135 and Embraer ERJ-145 commercial regional jets, as well as their derivatives, the Embraer Legacy 600 and 650 business jets.

This latest certification allows the MRO company to penetrate additional African markets and cater for those flying into different parts of Africa. ExecuJet is based at Johannesburg’s Lanseria International Airport and provides predominantly line and heavy maintenance.

“We are also responsible for drop-in maintenance for visiting customers as well as the local business jet market,” Goncalves told African Aerospace.

Looking at the post-pandemic landscape, Goncalves said strong demand for parts has unfortunately caught up with some suppliers and demand had grown at a pace far more than expected. “As business jet flying recovers post-pandemic and creating more flying hours, it has resulted in aircraft requiring maintenance more frequently, placing pressure on parts suppliers to meet the demand,” he observed.

Globally, post-pandemic supply chain disruptions have led to cost rises in MRO services and Goncalves pointed to a similar situation in African markets. He said the demand had increased substantially, and some suppliers were unable to keep up with this demand. “Parts supply as well as some OEM repairs, for example, landing gears, are taking longer due to the demand. Lead time on parts and turnaround times on OEM overhauls and repairs have also increased over the past two years,” he said.

Recently, several MRO companies on the continent have reported that provisioning of spares, material and repair services have faced major challenges that ended up with prolonged turnaround times (TATs) and affected the availability of aircraft and engines for operation.

African-based MRO organisations are facing the same aviation supply chain problems as other global regions and will need to adapt to smart solutions in times of disruptions and complexities.

ExecuJet MRO Services Africa is also certified by other civil aviation regulators such as Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria and Zambia and has a team of trained maintenance technicians and engineers who have extensive multi-OEM experience. However, technical skills to meet MRO demand are generally in short supply.

Goncalves is managing the situation with a proactive approach to continuously training and upskilling engineers. “However, unfortunately, many key players, such as us, face challenges as trained engineers get poached to service other MRO requirements.

“The impact on our business is concerning as we lose skill to the industry. It is also quite disheartening as our investments are high in training these engineers. It is far cheaper for MRO facilities to poach engineers by offering higher salaries than having to train them overseas, which often results in huge monetary investments,” he explained.

ExecuJet have managed to contain the impact so far with continued training over the years to maintain the current capability and provide the services operators are expecting.

“Going forward, we will enhance our apprentice training programme and proactively create local skills that will service the aviation industry in Africa. This is something we've done for many years successfully. Many of these youngsters are now fully-licensed quality engineers and we are very proud of this,” he added.

The ability to train and find technical jobs locally is vital in developing the MRO sector, considering some are struggling to find work outside the continent. This is partly thanks to the global shortage due to misalignment on regulation, mostly from one country to another.

Aviation recruiters have suggested that in some circumstances it’s possible to have training qualifications and certificates ‘validated’ to allow the transition of a worker from one jurisdiction to another, but again this is quite restrictive, for example when considering bringing skilled workers to Europe.

Keith Mwanalushi

Keith has been an aviation journalist and editor for several industry-leading publications.

Article Also Filed in:

Africa

Top story

Off

Redirected

Off

Turkish Technic joins Woodward's as its Licensed Asset Management Provider

eNethersole — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 10:42:37 +0000

Through this agreement, Turkish Technic will operate as a part of Woodward’s global LAMP network, providing component support for LEAP-1A/-1B engine operators. As part of the global network of LAMPs, Turkish Technic will provide routine component support as well as Aircraft on Ground (AOG) part support for Turkish Technic’s Power-by-the-Hour customers, and operators worldwide will have the opportunity to benefit from its AOG support.

Yasin Birinci, chief technical officer of Turkish Technic, said: “We have been partnering with Woodward for over a decade, and we are pleased to cement our cooperation with LAMP agreement. The availability of components is crucial in helping optimise the performance of our PBH and AOG customers. We are excited to extend our supply chain solutions to LEAP-1A/-1B engines, thereby providing support to Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX operators worldwide.”

DiSilvestro, SVP Aerospace Sales & Service of Woodward said: “Woodward and Turkish Technic have enjoyed a formal collaboration through a Repair License since 2010. The recent signing of Turkish Technic as a Licensed Asset Management Provider (LAMP) for LEAP engine components takes our relationship to a new level and expands support to the growing LEAP fleet.”

Posted date

Thu, 23/11/2023 - 12:00

First paragraph

Turkish Technic has signed an eight-year agreement with global manufacturer Woodward, establishing the MRO as a Licensed Asset Management Provider (LAMP).

Regions

Rate

Top story

Off

Article main topic

Redirected

Off

Moved to features

Off

Lead image:

New batch

Off

GAL AMMROC sign MRO agreement with Pannesma

eNethersole — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 06:47:58 +0000

The agreement is designed to strengthen collaboration between the two entities, with a focus on innovation across a range of advanced aircraft maintenance, upgrade and overhaul services.

The two industry leaders, Pannesma and GAL AMMROC, have joined forces to develop a range of customised programmes for both rotary and fixed wing aircraft that includes integrated solutions, upgrades and MRO services. Such programs will offer operators within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) access to world-class MRO facility and tailored aircraft solutions that will help to optimise both cost and operation readiness.

Additionally, such alliance not only enhances the military and commercial aviation landscape between the two countries but also aligned with the vision shared by the President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman. Their recent collaboration at the GCC-ASEAN Summit on 20 October 2023 in Riyadh emphasized the irreplaceable value of international integration and relationships. This pioneering initiative highlights the transformative partnerships emerging between multiple enterprises of the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is a testament to the strong relationship between the two nations.

The partnership between Pannesma and GAL AMMROC melds their unique capabilities, extensive resources, elite proficiencies and cutting-edge technologies to help develop customized solutions aimed at addressing challenges in the aviation sector.

GAL AMMROC, a regional leader in aircraft integrated solutions and MRO services has long term strategic partnerships with global OEMs including Lockheed Martin, Dassault Aviation, General Electric, Honeywell, BAE Systems and Thales, underscoring their commitment to delivering excellence. Pannesma Company, with its unparalleled expertise has established productive and long-lasting business relationships with several of the world’s leading Defense Contractors, including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Cubic and EuroCopter (Airbus) Helicopters.

Pannesma is a subsidiary of Atheeb Group, which was established in 1981 to meet the growing needs of the Saudi Arabian market for Technical, Management and Operation and Maintenance (O&M) services.

Mahmood Alhay Alhameli, CEO of GAL AMMROC, commented on the Teaming Agreement: “We are delighted to be partnering with Pannesma, KSA’s leading provider of O&M services on this landmark agreement. Working closely with our trusted strategic partners enhances both our homegrown defence expertise and national security capabilities while further boosting the region’s well-deserved reputation for aerospace excellence and technical innovation on the global stage.”

Posted date

Tue, 21/11/2023 - 12:00

First paragraph

GAL and AMMROC, collectively known as GAL AMMROC have signed a teaming agreement with Pannesma.

Regions

Rate

Top story

Off

Article main topic

Redirected

Off

Moved to features

Off

Lead image:

New batch

Off

Ethiopian Airlines signs for 22 TotalCare packages.

aPeaford — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 07:05:09 +0000

The Trent XWB-84 exclusively powers the Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

TotalCare is designed to provide operational certainty for customers by transferring time on wing and maintenance cost risk back to Rolls-Royce. This industry-leading premium service is supported by data delivered through the Rolls-Royce advanced engine health monitoring system, which helps provide customers with increased operational availability, reliability and efficiency.

Ethiopian Airlines became Africa’s first A350 operator in 2016, and has been a customer of Rolls-Royce for many years. This order will complement the airline’s existing fleet of 40 Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines.

Rolls-Royce also powers the airline’s fleet of 10 Boeing 787s with their Trent 1000 engine.

Posted date

Sun, 19/11/2023 - 12:00

First paragraph

Ethiopian Airlines has signed an MoU for a comprehensive TotalCare service agreement with Rolls-Royce for 22 Trent XWB-84 engines.

Regions

Africa

Other topics

Rate

Top story

Article main topic

Air transport

Redirected

Off

Moved to features

Off

Lead image:

New batch

Off

TATV Spotlight - Joramco at Dubai Airshow 2023

cbrown — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:54:16 +0000

Video section

Show business

Redirected

Off

Dubai Airshow: Flydubai announces plans for USD 190 million MRO facility

eNethersole — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:03:28 +0000

The construction of the new hangar and workshop will commence next year and is expected to conclude by the last quarter of 2026.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Flydubai, said: “This will bring Flydubai greater control over its maintenance requirements as it continues to grow its fleet and capabilities with a firm focus on the future.”

Khalifa Al Zaffin, CEO of Dubai Aviation City Cooperation and Dubai South, said: “Flydubai’s new facility in Dubai South reflects our commitment to enhancing the ecosystem that contributes to the growth and sustainability of the aviation industry. This partnership reaffirms Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub and reinforces our shared vision of providing world-class aviation services to our partners.”

Ghaith Al Ghaith, chief executive officer at Flydubai, added: “Dubai has emerged as a thriving aviation hub that fosters connectivity, innovation, growth and setting benchmarks for the global aviation industry. The spirit of Dubai is in our DNA and we are proud to announce today the plans for our MRO facility which represents a new chapter in our journey. At Flydubai, we continue to invest in our people and technologies and build solid foundations to enable further growth as part of our role in supporting Dubai’s economic and aviation vision.”

Mick Hills, chief operating officer at Flydubai, said: “When it is up and running in 2026, the MRO facility on Dubai South will bring us significant reductions in operational costs. Having our own in-country MRO facility will ensure a quicker turnaround of our fleet maintenance while adhering to the highest quality standards. This increased level of control will result in reduced downtime as maintenance tasks can be efficiently planned and executed, minimising any disruption to our flight schedules in the future and enhancing overall operational reliability.”

Posted date

Wed, 15/11/2023 - 12:00

First paragraph

Flydubai plans for a purpose-built USD 190 million MRO facility in Dubai South by 2026.

Regions

Other topics

Air transport

Airports

Rate

Top story

Off

Article main topic

Redirected

Off

Moved to features

Off

Lead image:

New batch

Off

Dubai Airshow 2023: Blade testing for MI-type helicopter successful

eNethersole — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 04:34:44 +0000

The composite blades, with technical characteristics surpassing those of legacy metal blades, offer new benefits for operators. They allow for the replacement of individual damaged blades, rather than the entire set, ensuring cost-efficiency and minimal downtime. In case of any damage, a damaged blade or set can be swiftly repaired on-site, ensuring a shorter turnaround time.

“The integration of our advanced composite blades on AAL’s Mi helicopter is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to providing innovative solutions in the aerospace industry,” said Steve Griessel, Paramount Global CEO. “These blades represent a significant leap forward in terms of performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.”

Posted date

Wed, 15/11/2023 - 12:00

First paragraph

Paramount and its strategic partner AAL Group have completed the initial testing stage of the composite helicopter blades for Mi-type helicopters.

Regions

Other topics

General aviation

Manufacturing

Rate

Top story

Off

Article main topic

Redirected

Off

Moved to features

Off

Lead image:

New batch

Off

SHOW BUSINESS: Dubai Airshow 2023 Day 3

cbrown — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 15:15:13 +0000

Topping the bill was Emirates Airline which is investing almost a billion dollars on a new engineering centre at Dubai World Central.

Other MRO providers and training companies were busy getting ink on contracts … while OEMs Airbus, Boeing and ATR were adding to the orders at the busiest Dubai Airshow yet.

Pick up a copy of SHOW BUSINESS, being distributed at the show with the support of Collins Aerospace, an RTX Business.

Read the digital edition of the publication here.

Posted date

Wed, 15/11/2023 - 12:00

Short summary

The massive investment in aircraft permeates through aviation; at the Dubai Airshow, it was the time for aviation services to hit the industry. Read more ...

First paragraph

The massive investment in aircraft permeates through aviation; at the Dubai Airshow, it was the time for aviation services to hit the industry.

Other topics

Rate

Top story

Article main topic

Redirected

Off

Moved to features

Off

Lead image:

New batch

Off

Dubai Airshow: Emirates to build new US$ 950 million engineering facility

eNethersole — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 05:27:44 +0000

Spread over one million square metres, the engineering complex will be the largest and most advanced of its kind to be operated by any airline, adding a boost to Dubai’s world-class aviation infrastructure.

Purpose-built to support Emirates’ aircraft fleet and operating requirements into the 2040s, the facility will also be a centre of excellence for commercial aviation engineering services in the Middle East, with spare capacity potentially offered to other airline operators.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group, said: “This significant investment signals our confidence in the future growth of Emirates and the aviation sector. The new facility will enable Emirates to be entirely self-sufficient when it comes to maintenance, repairs, overhaul (MRO) and all engineering requirements for our aircraft fleet. It gives us operational stability and flexibility, and quality assurance. With the projected growth of the region’s aviation sector, Emirates’ new engineering facility will also play a key role as a centre of excellence, attracting the involvement of global players across the aviation supply chain. It’ll create thousands of skilled technical jobs and add value to Dubai’s economy.”

Emirates’ new engineering facility will be equipped to handle the full gamut of specialist aircraft engineering services - from routine aircraft checks to bespoke paint jobs, light to heavy maintenance programmes, engine repair and testing, to full cabin interior fit-outs and aircraft conversions.

Ali Mubarak Al Soori, Emirates Group Executive Vice President - Facilities, Projects Management & Group Procurement & Supply Chain, said: “Construction work on Phase 1 is expected to begin in 2024 and be completed in 2027. Provisions have been made for further expansion, potentially doubling the capacity in Phase 2, in line with Emirates’ fleet growth and operational requirements. The new Emirates Engineering complex will also incorporate sustainability into its design, including: the use of green build materials throughout the complex; the installation of solar panels on roofs across the entire campus; and the set-up of recycling systems for oils and wastewater.”

Phase 1 of the project will deliver 8 maintenance hangars and 1 paint hangar – all capable of handling any size of commercial aircraft up to Code F (A380), an engine run-up facility, some 20 support workshops, massive storage facilities, and administration offices.

Posted date

Tue, 14/11/2023 - 12:00

First paragraph

Emirates announced during the Dubai Air Show a US$950 million investment to build a new ultra-modern engineering facility at Dubai World Central (DWC).

Regions

Other topics

Air transport

Rate

Top story

Off

Article main topic