Inside MRO News Highlights And Contracts, April 2022

Highlights

Embraer Launches E-Jet Cargo Conversion Program

Embraer has announced plans to begin E190F and E195F passenger-to- freighter conversions, with entry into service in early 2024. The conversions will be available for all pre-owned E190 and E195 aircraft.

The OEM’s engineering department is developing a service bulletin, which will include installation of a main deck front cargo door, a cargo handling system and a rigid cargo barrier, as well as floor reinforcement, air management system changes, removal of the interior and provisions for hazardous material transportation.

Embraer says the E190F will have a maximum payload of 23,600 lb. and the E195F will have a maximum payload of 27,100 lb. It plans to announce a launch customer before the end of 2022.

FEAM Acquires Northern Aerotech

U.S.-based MRO FEAM has grown its line station network in Europe by acquiring Danish maintenance provider Northern Aerotech.

The acquisitions of the six Northern Aerotech line stations will take the number of FEAM-operated locations in Europe to 12 line stations. Overall, the MRO has 42 line stations worldwide.

Northern Aerotech is headquartered in Copenhagen and specializes in line maintenance with additional offerings such as aircraft-on-ground services, aircraft inspection and airline consultancy.

In January, FEAM expanded into the UK after buying two line stations from BOSA Aerospace.

MTU Maintenance Zhuhai Breaks Ground on Training Facility

MTU Maintenance Zhuhai has started construction on a new training facility in China and plans to commence operating at the beginning of next year.

Once open, the MTU Aero Engines-China Southern Airlines joint venture is targeting the training of 50-100 engine maintenance mechanics annually.

Among its main objectives will be the reduction of turnaround times for engine maintenance. This will be accomplished by applying a dual training system used at MTU’s operations in Germany, which combines theoretical and practical training.

Contracts

AFI KLM E&M and Bamboo Airways signed a memorandum of understanding for future long-term MRO cooperation.

Atitech was selected by ITA Airways to provide heavy maintenance, pending its acquisition of Alitalia’s MRO unit.

Boeing secured a Cargo Aircraft Management order for four more 767-300 freighter conversions, plus four options, starting in late 2023.

Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW) secured a commitment from ATSG to convert 29 Airbus A330s to freighters in 2023-27, mainly at EFW’s facility in Germany and at ST Engineering’s conversion sites in China.

Embraer won a multiyear contract extension with German Airways for its component support Pool Program for five E190s.

Israel Aerospace Industries was selected by EVA Airways to convert three Boeing 777-300ERs to freighters starting in 2025.

JMC Group won a Ryanair contract to perform Boeing 737 Flight Length Sensitive inspections through the end of the 2022 winter season.

MTU Maintenance secured an agreement with LATAM to perform V2500 engine test runs with sustainable aviation fuel.

Saudi Aircraft Accessories and Components signed a four-year partnership agreement with Safran Landing Systems to increase and expand its commercial aircraft and military rotary landing gear overhaul services.

ST Engineering won a Vietjet Air contract for maintenance-by-the-hour component support for its fleet of Airbus A320s, A321s and A330s.