Oman’s SalamAir Chooses StandardAero for LEAP-1A Engine Maintenance

Oman’s SalamAir Selects StandardAero for LEAP-1A Engine Maintenance

StandardAero, a prominent independent provider of aerospace engine aftermarket services, has been appointed by Oman’s low-cost carrier SalamAir to deliver maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) support for the CFM International LEAP-1A engines that power its Airbus A320neo fleet. This agreement represents a pivotal development for SalamAir as it continues to expand and modernize its operations.

StandardAero will conduct MRO services at its extensive 810,000-square-foot facility in San Antonio, Texas, where it operates as a CFM LEAP Premier MRO provider. The company previously secured the first non-airline CFM Branded Service Agreement (CBSA) in the Americas for the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines in March 2023, underscoring its growing influence in the engine aftermarket sector.

Strategic Partnership and Industry Implications

Adrian Hamilton-Manns, CEO of SalamAir, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration, stating that safety, operational reliability, and cost-efficiency remain central to the airline’s growth strategy. He expressed confidence in StandardAero’s technical expertise and capabilities, emphasizing that the partnership will ensure the long-term performance and availability of SalamAir’s aircraft. This alliance is expected to support the airline’s commitment to providing dependable and affordable travel across the region.

Olivier Ruffet, Vice President Sales EMEA & Lessors for StandardAero’s Airlines & Fleet business unit, welcomed SalamAir to its expanding global client base. He noted that SalamAir joins a diverse group of LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B operators and asset managers spanning North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, and the Asia-Pacific region who rely on StandardAero for engine MRO. Ruffet emphasized the shared values between the two companies and the commitment to continuous improvement that will underpin their partnership.

As SalamAir integrates StandardAero’s services, the airline faces the challenge of managing a seamless transition to the new maintenance provider while controlling costs and maintaining operational efficiency amid fleet growth. Industry analysts suggest that investors will closely monitor the financial impact of this agreement, particularly given the competitive dynamics of the Middle Eastern aviation market. It is anticipated that rival carriers may pursue similar strategic partnerships to secure preferred maintenance arrangements, reflecting broader trends in engine leasing and aftermarket support.

StandardAero’s Expanding Capabilities and Commitment

StandardAero continues to enhance its LEAP engine capabilities, having industrialized over 300 component repairs for the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines through its Component Repair Services (CRS) team and Repair Development Center of Excellence. The company is also investing in workforce development by expanding its team of LEAP technicians via its in-house Aviation Mechanic Training Program at the San Antonio Training Academy.

This partnership with StandardAero underscores SalamAir’s dedication to operational reliability and cost management as it seeks to solidify its position within a dynamic and evolving regional aviation market.