FTAI Aviation Expands European Engine Maintenance Network with Rome Airport Agreement

FTAI Aviation Expands European Engine Maintenance Network with Rome Airport Agreement

FTAI Aviation Ltd. (Nasdaq: FTAI) has completed the acquisition of a 50% stake in IAG Engine Center Europe S.r.l., an Italian company operating a 200,000-square-foot maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility for CFM56 engines at Rome Fiumicino Airport. The facility, now rebranded as Quick Turn Engine Center Europe S.r.l. (“QuickTurn Europe”), represents a strategic expansion of FTAI’s footprint in the European aviation maintenance market.

Expansion of Maintenance Capacity and Capabilities

This joint venture adds a third CFM56 engine shop to FTAI’s global network, complementing its existing operations in Montréal and Miami. The Rome facility increases FTAI’s module maintenance capacity by 450 modules annually—equivalent to 150 engines—boosting the company’s total capacity by 33% from 1,350 to 1,800 modules per year. At full operational capacity, QuickTurn Europe will be capable of conducting over 600 engine tests annually. The facility is equipped with a state-of-the-art CFM56 engine test cell, and piece-part repair capabilities are anticipated to become operational in the second half of 2025.

Joe Adams, CEO of FTAI Aviation, described the joint venture as a significant milestone for the company’s European presence and overall maintenance capabilities. He emphasized that QuickTurn Europe’s enhanced repair services will provide expanded maintenance, repair, and exchange options to FTAI’s global customer base, leveraging Rome Fiumicino Airport’s strategic position as one of Europe’s fastest-growing aviation hubs. Adams highlighted the growth potential as FTAI supports airlines’ long-term maintenance requirements in this critical geographic region.

Mauricio Luna, CEO of IAG Engine Center, underscored that the partnership will optimize operational efficiency at the Rome facility, enabling faster turnaround times and improved service quality for European airlines. Ivan Bassato, Chief Aviation Officer of Aeroporti di Roma (ADR), noted that FTAI’s investment reinforces Rome Fiumicino Airport’s role within the global aviation ecosystem. Bassato projected that the expansion would generate hundreds of skilled jobs, delivering a positive economic impact for Fiumicino, Rome, the Lazio region, and Italy as a whole.

Competitive Landscape and Market Challenges

FTAI’s expansion occurs amid intensifying competition within the European MRO sector. Leading airlines such as Ryanair are increasing their maintenance capacities to support fleet growth, while companies like JetSupport and Haven Aviation have recently expanded their service offerings. This competitive environment places pressure on FTAI to maintain operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness to sustain its market position. Industry analysts anticipate that competitors may respond with strategic partnerships or further capacity expansions to capture additional market share.

The integration of QuickTurn Europe with FTAI’s existing facilities is expected to address strong demand from the company’s global clientele. However, evolving market dynamics will likely influence the long-term outcomes of this expansion.

About FTAI Aviation Ltd.

FTAI Aviation Ltd. specializes in the ownership and maintenance of commercial jet engines, focusing primarily on CFM56 and V2500 models. The company’s proprietary portfolio includes the Module Factory and a joint venture dedicated to engine PMA manufacturing, both designed to deliver cost savings and operational flexibility to airline customers worldwide.