Monthly Archives: October 2024

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MRO Europe: AFI KLM E&M and Air Europa strengthen partnership with new 787 maintenance contract

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Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) has entered into a new long-term partnership with Air Europa, providing extensive maintenance support for the airline’s Boeing 787 fleet.

This agreement, which includes establishing a Main Base Kit dedicated to Air Europa’s 787s in Madrid, reflects the enduring partnership between the two companies, extending their collaboration from maintenance services to passenger operations through SkyTeam alliance membership and code-share agreements.

With this contract, AFI KLM E&M further strengthens its presence in Spain, a country where it already supports multiple Spanish carriers on various aircraft types, such as the A320, A330, and A350. AFI KLM E&M also offers APU maintenance and performs extensive base maintenance for a large fleet of A320s in the region.

This new commitment with Air Europa consolidates AFI KLM E&M’s position as a premier maintenance provider in the Spanish market, reinforcing its long-standing dedication to delivering high-quality, comprehensive maintenance services for Boeing’s next-generation aircraft.

Pedro Macias, Air Europa’s chief technical officer, said: “Partnering with AFI KLM E&M for the maintenance support of our Boeing 787 fleet is a strategic move that aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality service and reliability to our passengers. We look forward to building on our nearly 20-year cooperation and achieving new heights together.”

Ton Dortmans, executive vice president of KLM Engineering & Maintenance, said: “We are thrilled to extend our collaboration with Air Europa through this new long-term agreement. Our shared expertise and commitment to excellence have always been the foundation of our partnership. This new contract reaffirms our dedication to supporting Air Europa’s operational performance and reliability.”


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MRO Europe: AFI KLM E&M to provide LOT Polish Airlines with LEAP-1B QT support

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LOT Polish Airlines has awarded a contract to Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) for Quick Turn (QT) support of its LEAP-1B engines.

AFI KLM E&M, which has long provided component support for LOT’s 787 and 737 aircraft, strengthens its partnership with the airline through this new agreement.

In 2022, AFI KLM E&M joined the LEAP network by signing a CBSA license agreement for LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines. Since then, more than 70 (heavy) QTs have been carried out at its engine facilities in Amsterdam and Paris.

LOT Polish Airlines operates one of Europe’s youngest fleets, with an increasing number of new-generation aircraft.

Krzysztof Krolak, CAMO director at LOT Polish Airline, said: “We are very enthusiastic to partner with AFI KLM E&M on the LEAP-1B. This engine plays an important role in our ambition to reduce our environmental impact and we’re confident that AFI KLM E&M has the knowledge and experience to maintain it to the highest standards.”

Ton Dortmans, executive vice-president at AFI KLM E&M, said: “The collaboration with LOT Polish Airlines underscores our dedication to providing advanced MRO solutions, including comprehensive LEAP services, that empower airlines to operate at their best. We are excited to contribute to LOT Polish Airlines fleet renewal strategy and enhance their operational capabilities.”


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NEXT LEVEL AVIATION® and PRATT & WHITNEY EXTEND USM CONSIGNMENT AGREEMENT

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Next Level Aviation® to continue to support Pratt & Whitney CSA through consignment of used serviceable engine accessories for an additional three years

DANIA BEACH, Fla., Oct. 29, 2024 /CNW/ — Next Level Aviation® (NLA), a leader in the global distribution of used serviceable materials (USM), has extended an agreement with Pratt & Whitney Commercial Serviceable Assets (CSA), regarding the sale of used serviceable material (USM) for aircraft engines for an additional three years. This further enhances Next Level Aviation’s leadership position as a global distributor of USM, primarily supporting Boeing and Airbus aircraft platforms and associated jet engines. Pratt & Whitney is an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business.

This agreement pairs the resources and technical expertise of Pratt & Whitney CSA with the sales, marketing and delivery expertise of Next Level Aviation®. This powerful combination provides a global customer base of airlines, leasing companies and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) shops with significant value through cost savings and just in time delivery.

The agreement provides for the following:

  • Pratt & Whitney CSA will consign used serviceable material to NLA to meet customer requirements.
  • Next Level Aviation® will support and supply both companies’ global customer base for their used serviceable engine accessory requirements.

Next Level Chairman & CEO Jack Gordon stated, “We are ecstatic that Pratt & Whitney CSA has agreed to extend our USM agreement an additional three years. This consignment extension validates Next Level Aviation’s USM expertise in the aftermarket, and its place as a trusted link in critical OEM supply chains. We would like to thank the Pratt & Whitney CSA team again for trusting Next Level Aviation® with its USM inventory and global customer base.”

Mike Dreyer, Next Level Aviation’s Executive Vice President of Sales & Procurement, further commented, “With the extension of our agreement with Pratt & Whitney CSA, Next Level Aviation will continue to be the global leader in all LRU and QEC material. Thank you again to Pratt & Whitney CSA, they have been tremendous collaborators and will continue be so far into the future.”

ABOUT NEXT LEVEL AVIATION®
Next Level Aviation® is an ASA-100 accredited and FAA Advisory Circular 00-56B compliant supplier stocking commercial aircraft/jet engine used serviceable material (USM) for all Boeing and Airbus aircraft platforms and associated jet engines. Next Level Aviation® specifically focuses on stocking USM for the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families of aircraft and their associated jet engines, which currently make up about 70% of the global commercial fleet. Founded in March 2013 by Jack Gordon, Mike Dreyer, and Matt Dreyer, Next Level Aviation® has grown into a top global supplier of commercial aircraft/jet engine used serviceable material.


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Gogo Galileo Signs Wheels Up and Textron Aviation

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LEO satcom is expected to begin service by the end of the year

Hughes Network Systems has completed test flying of the Gogo Galileo HDX electronically steered antenna (ESA) on a Bombardier Challenger 300, while Wheels Up announced plans to equip its entire fleet with Galileo HDX satcom systems and Textron Aviation became the first OEM to offer Galileo HDX as a factory-installed option for the Cessna Citation Longitude, Latitude, and Ascend. Galileo service, which runs on Eutelsat’s OneWeb low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, is set to begin by the end of the year.

The half-duplex HDX antenna will be available for the Longitude in 2026 and for the Latitude and Ascend at a date to be announced later.

“At Textron Aviation, we are committed to enhancing the flight experience for our customers,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior v-p of global sales and flight operations for Textron Aviation. “By offering Gogo Galileo HDX, we ensure that passengers on these Citation business jets enjoy a seamless and superior in-flight Wi-Fi experience, no matter where their journey takes them.”

Wheels Up plans to begin Galileo installations in mid-2025 as supplemental type certificates are approved covering its fleet types.

“Exceptional onboard Wi-Fi is a central in-flight experience feature our members and customers value when selecting an aircraft,” said Wheels Up CEO George Mattson. “Gogo is a long-term proven partner of ours and their next-generation Galileo HDX system is a key element of our fleet modernization plan.”

Gogo’s Galileo HDX antenna can fit on any business aircraft and weighs 21.6 pounds and measures 24 inches long, 11.8 inches wide, and 2.1 inches high. The FDX (full-duplex) will fit on larger jets and will be available in the first half of 2025. It weighs 40 to 45 pounds, with a length of 30 inches, width 24.6 inches, and height the same at 2.1 inches.

Service speed for HDX is up to 60 Mbps download and 11 Mbps upload, while the FDX will offer 195 Mbps download and 32 Mbps upload. Prices range from $3,500 per month for 25 GB to $10,500 for unlimited data. The system price as an add-on to Gogo Avance L5 is $120,000 for HDX or $190,000 for FDX.

Hughes Network Systems manufactures the terminals, including the antennas, for Gogo in Germantown, Maryland. “Business jet owners can unlock the full potential of LEO connectivity with the Hughes ESA to deliver a seamless, gate-to-gate connectivity experience,” said Reza Rasoulian, senior v-p of Hughes’ aviation business unit.


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NBAA convention ushers in next era in aviation

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The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) concluded “an electrifying week” Oct. 24 at its 2024 Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), bringing together the industry’s top names, latest innovations, and biggest news, ushering in the next era of aviation, according to association officials.

“Business aviation is transforming with new technologies and bold ideas,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “NBAA-BACE celebrated all our industry is today and how we are shaping the future.”

Headline-making moments defined the show from the very start, NBAA officials said.

At the opening keynote, FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker unveiled a long-awaited regulatory framework for electric air taxis and other advanced air mobility (AAM) operations.

Immediately after the keynote, Whitaker signed the Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR ) surrounded by the CEOs and leaders of the top AAM companies, including BETA Technologies, Electra.aero, Joby, Textron eAviation, Wisk, Archer Aviation, Lilium, and Supernal.

Along with the FAA’s historic news, NBAA-BACE hosted a slate of major announcements, including Bombardier’s planned production of the all-new Global Express 8000 and Textron Aviation’s unveiling of its new line Gen3 of Cessna Citation M2, CJ3 and CJ4 aircraft. The upgraded CJ4 is equipped with the Garmin G3000 PRIME all-touchscreen flight deck, released in time for the show.

The exhibit hall was packed with more than 800 companies showcasing the latest aircraft, avionics, and propulsion technologies.

A record 450 volunteers joined the 10th annual YoPro Networking Reception & Helpy Hour, nearly double previous years’ participation.

The show provided a platform for the industry to meet face-to-face with top regulators from the FAA and Transportation Security Administration at the convention’s Meet the Regulators session.

Safety, the industry’s core value, took center stage, with sessions led by Dr. Susan Northrup, U.S. federal air surgeon at the FAA, and National Transportation Safety Board Member Todd Inman. The two were among the many officials part of the show’s National Safety Forum, Single-Pilot Safety Standdown and Small Operators Symposium.

Several congressional leaders joined the convention, including Reps. Sam Graves (R-6-MO) and Rick Larsen (D-2-WA), who spearheaded this year’s FAA reauthorization, as well as Reps. Dina Titus (D-1-NV) and Ron Estes (R-4-KS).

The show’s all-new Flight Deck on the exhibit floor drew crowds to hear from the industry’s top aircraft brokers, market experts, and entrepreneurs on the most timely issues, such as artificial intelligence in business aviation, security in a flight tracking age, and trends propelling aircraft sales and deliveries, NBAA officials said.

Leading off the week, a record-setting 350 people attended the NBAA Tax, Regulatory & Risk Management Conference, officials added.

The full diversity of business aircraft was on display at Henderson Executive Airport (KHND), from piston-engine airplanes, to long-range, large-cabin business jets, to helicopters.

Excellence was recognized throughout the show week, according to NBAA officials.

The National Aviation Hall of Fame announced its 2025 Enshrinement class, including former NBAA board chair, decorated veteran and iconic aviator Gen. Lloyd “Fig” Newton.

The seventh class of NBAA’s 40 Under 40 emerging leaders were honored along with industry legends, and the National Aeronautic Association awarded the Clifford Henderson Trophy to MedAire founder Joan Sullivan Garrett and CEO Bill Dolny.

At a special luncheon, Bolen bestowed NBAA’s Above and Beyond Award for Heroic Achievement to flight attendant Sydney Bosmans, whose professionalism and teamwork with passengers saved lives in the aftermath of a fatal business aircraft accident. Earlier, Bolen presented NBAA’s John P. “Jack” Doswell Award to Gray Stone Advisors Founder Jim Lara for his lifetime of service to business aviation.

The industry’s mission to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 was in sharp focus at NBAA-BACE. Three Las Vegas-area airports offered sustainable aviation fuel, which can reduce aircraft emissions by up to 80%. The fourth Business Aviation Sustainability Summit convened experts on thinking globally and acting locally. One of the Department of Energy’s top officials for renewables, Jeff Marootian, outlined what the federal government is doing to foster sustainable aviation.

NBAA-BACE also opened doors for a new generation of leaders, with a training course hosted by Bombardier for 80 students at the airport. Planned by Guinness World Record-breaking pilot and educator Barrington Irving, the special training gave students hands-on experience with a Bombardier aircraft and time to network with prospective employers.

The job-matching and educational opportunities continued with Collegiate Connect, the second annual Career Fair at NBAA-BACE, attended by hundreds students. A dozen scholarships were presented at the show, including NBAA’s inaugural Young Professionals in Business Aviation Scholarship.

“This NBAA-BACE offered a thrilling look at where our industry is headed,” Bolen said. “It was an incredible week where history was made and amazing technologies showcased an industry coming together to reach new heights.”

NBAA-BACE will return to Las Vegas next year from Oct. 14-16, 2025.


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Airlines Successfully Shifting to Fuel-Efficient Aircraft Models

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Economic efficiency and sustainability, as well as environmental protection, have become a priority in the development of the aviation industry. Airlines have begun to use advanced aircraft models which require reduced operating costs and also leave a lower carbon footprint. Examples include the Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo models. Their fuel efficiency is consistent with the improved version and allows airlines to develop globally and remain competitive in the market.

Importance of Fuel Efficiency for the Aviation Industry

The aviation industry reduces its annual costs through fuel efficiency. Global market prices often fluctuate and affect airline profits. This is becoming more noticeable because approximately 30% of the operating costs are spent on fuel. Thus, the innovation of economical aircraft models significantly curtails costs, reduces airlines’ dependence on fluctuating market conditions and ensures financial stability. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has also confirmed this fact.

The aviation industry is responsible for 2-3% of global carbon footprint. Undoubtedly, this has a devastating influence on climate change and demands consideration of solutions to the problem. For this reason, the use of more economical new aircraft models can lead to less pollution. This will not only support international sustainable aviation development but also provide an opportunity for passengers to travel more ecologically.

Examples of Upgraded Economical Aircraft Models

The first example of a leading model of an aircraft is the Boeing 737 MAX. Compared to its previous series 737NG, the Boeing 737 MAX has CFM International LEAP-1B class engines and improved wings’ construction. This model saves approximately 14% of the fuel and $112,000 per year for the airline. All this happens in the classic conditions of using the aircraft on regular flights.

Another example, which uses advanced technologies and consequently reduces costs compared to other models is the Airbus A320neo. This economical model demonstrates more than 15% improved fuel efficiency through its Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines and aerodynamic wings of the sharklets type. With the Airbus A320neo operating on a regular basis, the airline saves up to 500,000 gallons of fuel each year.

Airline Leaders in Fleet Modernization

Companies need to upgrade their fleets to successfully implement economical models as replacements for obsolete and less efficient aircraft. At the moment, Delta Air Lines, Ryanair and American Airlines achieved the most significant goals in fleet modernization. Delta Air Lines has committed to maintaining one of its newest fleets in the United States, having contracts for more than 200 Airbus A321neo models. As the largest European budget carrier, Ryanair has invested in supporting the Boeing 737 MAX. The airline’s goal was to make its fleet to become 100% economical by 2025. These aspects have helped airlines to become leaders in the field of sustainable aviation, increase operational savings and reduce carbon emissions, further improving environmental performance.

Further Prospects

Technological development takes the aviation industry to a new level. The use of different models of economical aircraft will soon lead to low or even zero carbon emissions. Fuel efficiency contributes to sustainable development and the future of aviation, as well as laying the foundation for an environmentally friendly industry.


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FAA Clears the Runway for the Future of Advanced Air Mobility Travel

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What It Means for Your Aviation Business – and the Legal Challenges Ahead

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Oct. 22, 2024, took a significant step toward the future of advanced air mobility (AAM) travel by releasing its final Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) on powered-lift pilot certification and operation. The powered-lift category of aircraft includes electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft or air taxis. Although the powered-lift category has existed for a long time, it was largely unused in the civil context until recent innovations in electric propulsion made powered-lift aircraft more attractive. This updated FAA approach to powered lift aircraft is expected to be the most significant innovation in civil aviation since the introduction of helicopters in the 1940s. Powered-lift aircraft, capable of vertical takeoff like helicopters and efficient cruising like airplanes, are set to revolutionize urban mobility, cargo delivery and other aviation services. FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker’s background working for an eVTOL company prior to his nomination helped inform the FAA’s approach and priority to this SFAR. While this new rule paves the way for widespread use of powered-lift aircraft, it also introduces a host of legal and regulatory complexities that businesses must navigate.

  1. Pilot Training and Certification Compliance. The FAA’s final rule includes a comprehensive framework for the certification and training of pilots and instructors in powered-lift operations. Due to the unique nature of these aircraft – combining characteristics of both helicopters and airplanes – the rule applies some helicopter-specific operating requirements during certain phases of flight, while adopting a performance-based approach for other aspects of operations. Notably, the SFAR allows AAM companies to train pilots in powered-lift with a single set of flight controls. This changes the FAA’s precedent, which traditionally required two flight controls – one for the student and one for the instructor.

For businesses developing pilot training programs, it’s important to note that the FAA has left the door open for future advancements in training technology. Under 14 CFR Part 11, companies may petition for exemptions if they can demonstrate that new training technologies can achieve equivalent safety outcomes. For now, however, advancements in Full Flight Simulator Devices (FSTD) are not yet sufficient to warrant a reduced training footprint, meaning companies must comply with the FAA’s current requirements. Any business interested in proposing an alternative training solution will need to petition the FAA for an exemption in accordance with Part 11.

  1. Waivers and Exemptions for Operations. Another critical element of the new rule is its provision for waivers under 14 CFR § 91.903. The FAA has amended this section to allow waivers for powered-lift aircraft under certain operating conditions. For example, Section 91.107, which deals with the use of safety belts, is a waivable regulation under Section 91.903, and the corresponding powered-lift regulation (Section 194.302(c)) will also be waivable. This flexibility in regulations offers a pathway for businesses to request deviations from specific operating rules, provided they can demonstrate that safety standards will be maintained.

However, not all regulations are waivable. In cases where a specific rule cannot be waived, powered-lift operators may still petition the FAA for an exemption, providing another legal pathway for businesses seeking operational flexibility. Companies engaged in innovative approaches to powered-lift operations can petition for rulemaking or request exemptions when necessary, enabling them to adapt to evolving industry needs.

  1. Opportunities for Innovation and Legal Considerations. Though the FAA’s rule provides the framework for powered-lift operations, it also is expected to spur innovation within the industry. The FAA acknowledges that technological advancements may lead to new approaches to training, operations and safety. Businesses that pioneer new technologies or methodologies in powered-lift operations have the option to petition for regulatory exemptions or request the FAA consider new rules under Part 11. This offers a significant opportunity for companies to influence future regulatory developments and carve out competitive advantages in the powered-lift market.

At the same time, businesses must remain vigilant about regulatory compliance. The FAA has made it clear that safety remains its top priority, and the agency will closely scrutinize any petitions for exemption or rulemaking to ensure they align with established safety standards. Experienced legal counsel is essential to successfully navigating these regulatory waters, ensuring that any requests for waivers or exemptions are thoroughly supported by safety data and operational justification.


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MRO Europe: LOT Polish Airlines joins Embraer’s Pool Program to support E195-E2 fleet

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Embraer has entered into a multi-year agreement with LOT Polish Airlines to provide comprehensive support through its renowned Pool Program.

This contract will cover a wide range of repairable components for the airline’s three newly leased E195-E2 aircraft from Azorra.

LOT Polish Airlines is one of the largest global operators of Embraer’s E-Jets, with a fleet of 47 Embraer aircraft.

By joining the Pool Program, the airline will benefit from Embraer’s extensive maintenance and component support network, which currently serves more than 60 airlines worldwide.

Krzysztof Krolak, vice president of technical operations at LOT Polish Airlines, said: “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to operational excellence and efficiency as we continue to grow our fleet with the E195-E2 aircraft. Having Embraer’s robust support network behind us ensures that we can provide our passengers with the reliability and quality they expect from LOT Polish Airlines.

“This agreement is not only a continuation of our long-standing relationship with Embraer but also another step in optimising our fleet maintenance and operational capabilities.”

Carlos Naufel, chief executive and president at Embraer Services & Support, said: “We are very pleased to sign a Pool Program agreement with LOT Polish Airlines. The company is growing its E2 footprint along with our services, which shows that we are on the right path to support the aircraft operation and maintain the readiness of its fleet. LOT was the first operator of the E-Jets in 2004, and it is an honor to keep advancing in our long-term relationship.”

The announcement was made during Aviation Week’s MRO Europe 2024 event in Barcelona.


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Embraer Adds Gama in the UK to Executive Aircraft Service Center Network

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Bournemouth-based MRO facility will support Phenom and Legacy jets

Gama Aviation’s facility at Bournemouth, UK, has become the latest addition to Embraer Executive Jets’ service center network. The aircraft manufacturer announced the appointment on Wednesday, confirming that Gama will now provide line maintenance for Phenom 100 and 300 business jets, and base maintenance for Legacy 600/650s located in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Embraer already has eight of its own service centers globally for its executive aircraft family, and 10 authorized service centers in Europe among 64 such facilities worldwide. The group’s services and support unit said it has recently doubled maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capacity in the U.S. with facilities at Dallas Love Field Airport, as well as in Cleveland, Ohio, and Sanford, Florida.

“We are delighted to have been selected as an authorized service center by Embraer who set an understandably high bar to become part of their global network,” said Gama Aviation MRO managing director Paul Kinch. “We look forward to working with customers to support their Phenom and Legacy aircraft via our MRO capability at Bournemouth, our line stations at Farnborough and Luton, plus our countrywide mobile support team service.”


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EASA Clears ExecuJet To Support Bombardier Global Bizjets

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Approval covers the Dassault-owned MRO’s bases in Belgium

EASA has approved ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium to perform line maintenance and aircraft-on-ground (AOG) support for the Bombardier Global XRS, 5000/5500, and 6000/6500. The Brussels-based operation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Canadian aircraft maker’s rival, Dassault Aviation.

This approval expands ExecuJet MRO Services’ capability beyond Bombardier’s Challenger aircraft. The line maintenance and AOG support includes troubleshooting, minor repairs, and component replacement, as well as weekly and monthly checks. The company said it has already invested in the required technical publications to covering the Global aircraft and so is ready to support operators.

“Through the day-to-day line maintenance work in Belgium, we will develop customer relationships and hope to be called upon, when needed, to provide AOG support,” said Matthijs Hutsebaut, regional v-p for ExecuJet MRO Services. “The company already provides AOG support across Europe and Africa for Europeean-registered Dassault Falcon and Cessna Citation aircraft.”

Hutsebaut said the company applied for the EASA approval in response to a request from a specific customer and after assessing MRO capacity for Global aircraft. It covers the company’s facilities in Brussels and Kortrijk.