The facility will offer an integrated 2+2 year Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) programme certified by the Indian aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The facility will also support the airline’s fleet expansion.

The Air India BMTO is a step towards building a robust, future-ready aviation ecosystem in India. It will serve the ambitions of the airline as it moves ahead in its transformation journey, strengthening the availability of aircraft maintenance engineers as Air India expands its fleet, making it self-reliant.

Air India has signed an agreement with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), to develop a build-to-suit facility for the AME program that will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories for practical training and a team of qualified trainers. The purpose-built campus, spread over 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City, is expected to be operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be housed close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru that will be operational in early 2026. The program at the BMTO will include two years of in-classroom academic coursework followed by two years of practical on-job training at the MRO.

The aim of the BMTO is to foster a workforce of skilled professionals for aircraft maintenance and engineering operations where students will receive hands-on experience and training, adhering to industry standards and Air India’s specific requirements.

Till the new BMTO facility commences operations, Air India will implement a Cadet AME program with other reputable institutions across Bengaluru and Hyderabad to ensure continuity in its commitment towards AME education and workforce development as well as to support its requirements for aircraft maintenance engineers.

“The Basic Maintenance Training Organization will establish a pipeline of skilled engineers trained to Air India standards from the outset. This facility and program, combined with proximity to Kempegowda International Airport, will enable our AME cadets to gain hands-on, real-world experience as part of their training, supporting their future as industry-ready professionals aligned with Air India’s ongoing fleet expansion needs,” said Sunil Bhaskaran, director, Aviation Academy, Air India.

This enhanced strategic framework agreement focuses on key areas of Maintenance, Manufacturing, Human Capital Development, Advanced Material and Space.

The partnership prioritises nurturing local talent through collaborative training opportunities for Emirati engineers and aerospace professionals. With space a key focus area for Mubadala, this partnership unlocks opportunities in air traffic management, Earth observation, and propulsion systems. Additionally, it enhances capabilities within Strata Solvay Advanced Materials, focusing on advanced materials for engine applications, solidifying the UAE's position in aerospace materials science.

“We are pleased to strengthen our long-term partnership with Safran, a global aerospace leader,” said Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters, at Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform. “As an national investor, we are dedicated to support the diversification of the UAE’s economy by building world-class national champions and fostering innovation in high-growth sectors. This agreement not only reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier aerospace hub but also underscores our shared commitment to upskilling local talent, empowering the next generation of engineers and professionals to lead in the global aerospace industry.”

"This strategic framework agreement marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Mubadala, contributing to positioning the United Arab Emirates as a global leader in aerospace innovation and manufacturing. By joining forces, we are enhancing our ability to support technological advancements, develop a skilled workforce, and promote aerospace excellence under the 'Made in the UAE' brand," said Philippe Errera, EVP, International Development and Government Relations Safran.

This is expected to be complete by mid-2025.

According to CAA, the facility will feature state-of-the-art buildings and advanced equipment, capable of handling a wide range of aircraft, including large models like the A380, the world's largest passenger airliner.

The project aims to meet the global market's needs as international air traffic is expected to grow, especially after the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

By launching this project, the CAA intends to position Oman as a key regional hub for aircraft maintenance in the Middle East.

The agreement will help GE Aerospace fulfil its obligations to CFM for MRO capacity as part of an open MRO ecosystem for LEAP engines. The open ecosystem includes CFM internal capacity, supplied by GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, as well as external capacity from Premier MRO shops and other third-party providers who compete for MRO work. 

“This agreement validates our commitment to safety, quality, technology and innovation – and to a spirit of cooperation between the Republic of Cyprus and the United States,” said John Savvides, chief executive officer at UAMCO, “CFM LEAP engines power the world’s most popular passenger aircraft, and we look forward to working with GE Aerospace on the maintenance of these engines.”     

UAMCO recently secured EASA approval for quick turn maintenance for LEAP-1A engines for Airbus A320neo family aircraft, and for LEAP-1B engines for Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Based in Larnaca, Cyprus, the MRO provider will focus on meeting the engine maintenance needs of customers in Europe, Middle East, and Africa. The company is already working with GE Aerospace On-Wing Support (OWS) to support on-wing and near-wing retrofits of the new reverse bleed system (RBS) for LEAP-1A engines. UAMCO currently has two teams who can perform these installations anywhere in the world. 

“UAMCO offers an impressive set of MRO capabilities and capacity,” said Tom Levin, vice president of CFM commercial programs at GE Aerospace. “We depend on strategically located providers like UAMCO to help us meet unprecedented demand for LEAP engines, decrease turnaround time, and maintain the highest standards of safety and quality.”

The first agreement has been signed with the Moroccan Aerospace Industries Association (GIMAS) to train engine mechanics and technicians.

The MoU covers the development and provision of training for between 60 and 100 persons per year as from early 2025. It aims at responding to the needs for a skilled workforce of Safran’s MRO subsidiary SAESM and its future dedicated LEAP MRO shop.  Trainees will benefit from existing infrastructure, as well as new, purpose-built facilities belonging to Morocco’s foremost training providers.

Two additional agreements concern plans for the new MRO shop in the Midparc aerospace hub, a free trade zone, located in the Casablanca airport zone.

Upon completion, the new MRO shop will employ more than 600 people. It will be able to handle 150 engines per year and meet fast-growing demand for LEAP shop visits, especially from airlines based in Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

According to the Group, the new installation will further expand Safran’s industrial footprint in Morocco while strengthening its partnership which spans over quarter of a century.

Safran currently employs around 4,700 people through eight companies or joint-ventures.

The first agreement encompasses comprehensive Component Pool support, granting SunExpress access to Turkish Technic’s extensive inventory and tailored component solutions. This service will cover both the Boeing 737NG and Boeing 737MAX fleets, ensuring optimal component availability and minimising aircraft downtime.

Additionally, a second agreement will cover the complete landing gear overhaul and spare operations for SunExpress' Boeing 737NG fleet. Together with these comprehensive agreements, Turkish Technic supports the operational continuity and fleet readiness of SunExpress, while SunExpress further reinforces its ability to deliver punctual and reliable services to its customers.

Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, said: “As our long-standing partnership thrives with new agreements, we are pleased to enhance SunExpress’ operational efficiency through our comprehensive component services. These agreements ensure seamless operations for SunExpress’ fleet. We are always delighted to strengthen and expand our long-standing collaboration with SunExpress. Turkish Technic remains committed to delivering world-class MRO solutions, driving operational excellence, and fostering long-lasting business partnerships within the aviation industry.”

Max Kownatzki, CEO of SunExpress, expressed: “Our well-established collaboration with Turkish Technic reflects our commitment to safety and efficiency. The component support and landing gear maintenance services will help us maintain our operational reliability and performance at the highest standards. We believe that our partnership will continue to enhance our operational excellence, ensuring safe and reliable services for our customers."

This deal is part of an an investment plan of over €1 billion by Safran Aircraft Engines to strengthen its global MRO network and support the growing fleet of LEAP engines. 

These latest investments will enable the engine manufacturer to handle 1,200 shop visits per year by 2028. This capital outlay will cover the construction of an additional 120,000 square metres of industrial facilities dedicated to LEAP repair and maintenance. The investment plan also encompasses the development of the company’s global engine part repairs network.  

The new 25,000 square metres shop to be built in the airport zone of Casablanca will create around 600 direct jobs by 2030. It will benefit from strategic training partnerships to ensure the development of the skills required. Once complete, the new MRO shop will have the capacity to handle 150 engines per year, allowing it to meet fast-growing demand for LEAP shop visits, especially from airlines based in Africa, the Middle East and Europe.  

The MOU was signed during the state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Rabat. The ceremony was attended by his Majesty Mohammed VI. The agreement was signed by M. Ryad Mezzour, Minister for Trade and Industry, Karim Zidane, Deputy Minister for Investment, Convergence, and Assessment of Public Policies, and Ross McInnes, Chairman of Safran’s Board.

“The expansion of our global LEAP MRO network is in response to the tremendous success of this engine, which has been chosen by some 180 airlines around the world,” said Jean-Paul Alary, Chief Executive Officer of Safran Aircraft Engines.

Established in 1999, Safran Aircraft Engine Services Morocco (SAESM) was the first aerospace company to set up in Morocco. Since it has become a major centre of excellence for CFM56 engine maintenance. SAESM is strengthening its position within Safran’s global MRO network, offering airlines a complete range of services covering the entire MRO process, from diagnosis to performance guarantee at the test bench.

Last April, Royal Air Maroc and Safran also strengthened their partnership in aircraft engine maintenance. The two partners signed an agreement for the unit’s continued growth, including 2,000 square metres (21,500 sq. ft) of added capacity, enabling it to increase the number of shop visits from 70 to 100 a year by 2026.

Under this agreement, Turkish Technic will provide Redelivery Check services for Airbus A320neo aircraft at Turkish Technic facilities in İstanbul Atatürk Airport as well as Sabiha Gökçen Airport, with the first aircraft arriving in October 2024. 

Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, said: ‘‘We are pleased to further expand our partnership with IndiGo. This agreement stands as a testament to our technical expertise in aircraft services. With years of experience under our belt, we are fully equipped to ensure the smooth and timely redelivery of IndiGo’s Airbus A320neo aircraft, contributing to their continued operational success. We look forward to strengthening our collaboration and exploring new opportunities with IndiGo.” 

Wolfgang Prock-Schauer, COO of IndiGo said: "We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency through our partnership with Turkish Technic. This agreement for the Redelivery Checks of our Airbus A320neo underlines our trust in Turkish Technic's expertise and capabilities. This collaboration will support the seamless redelivery process, ensuring our aircraft are maintained to the highest global standards."

This transaction, between two of Abu Dhabi’s foremost aviation players, underscores the emirate’s position as a global aviation hub and supports the continued expansion of Etihad Airways and the strength of the Abu Dhabi aviation ecosystem.

The sale includes a range of next-generation aircraft engines that power Etihad’s modern fleet of aircraft comprising nine GEnx engines for the Boeing 787 aircraft, five GP7200 engines for the Airbus A380, one Trent XWB engine for the Airbus A350, and one V2500 engine for the Airbus A320. This transaction underscores the strong synergy between Sanad and Etihad Airways, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s aviation landscape and advancing the emirate's strategic ambitions as the sector plays an integral role in bolstering the non-oil trade whilst driving economic growth.

Mansoor Janahi, managing director and group CEO of Sanad highlighted the significance of the deal: "This transaction reaffirms Sanad’s long-term commitment to proactive portfolio management and optimising our assets while strategically investing in future growth initiatives. It highlights the strength of Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector and our dedication to driving its continued growth. Our collaboration with Etihad Airways reflects the remarkable growth the airline is experiencing, and we are proud to be supporting the airline’s ambitious 2030 journey. Together, we are strengthening the synergies within Abu Dhabi’s thriving aviation ecosystem.”

Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, added: “The acquisition of these engines marks a key milestone for Etihad as we continue maintaining a world-class fleet that drives our growth, honouring Abu Dhabi’s rich aviation heritage. This transaction is also a reminder of the strong synergy between Sanad and Etihad Airways spanning two decades.”

This is for the provision of landing gear maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services to Embraer E-Jet E1 operators across the EMEA region for the E190 platform. 

This follows the initial MOU that launched the cooperative partnership in 2022. 

With market demand continuing to rise as air traffic rebounds robustly since the pandemic, AEM is taking on more landing gear work from Liebherr-Aerospace at its Ramsgate facility in the UK.  As a highly qualified and well-established MRO, AEM is ideally positioned to support the OEM in delivering first-class and efficient services which increases the availability for overhaul slots for operators of the E-Jet E1 aircraft. 

“This partnership fully endorses our relationship with Liebherr and showcases AEM’s capabilities as a leading landing gear maintenance provider” comments Mike Audus, Divisional VP & Business Unit Manager – Aerospace Europe, for AMETEK MRO.

As Andy Wheeler, divisional vice president and managing director of AEM, explains, “Our highly trained team of technicians in Ramsgate has demonstrated their consistency in providing the quality of MRO that Liebherr’s customers demand.  Signing the full contract is indicative of the confidence they place in AEM and complements the wider range of landing systems capabilities that AMETEK MRO offers.” 

Christian Franz, director customer service Liebherr-Aerospace said the primary aim of the partnership is to deliver superior customer support:  “Together with AEM we can optimise the fleet operations of E-Jet E1 customers across Europe, Middle East and Africa by generating increased availability and more flexibility when they plan and select overhaul slots.  Regional airlines are expanding their fleets and introducing new routes, if we can help with operational certainty, they can focus on the important role they play in delivering global connectivity.”