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Joramco to Provide MRO Services for Condor’s Airbus Fleet

February 5, 2026By ePlane AI
Joramco to Provide MRO Services for Condor’s Airbus Fleet
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Airbus Fleet MRO

Joramco Secures Five-Year MRO Contract with Condor for Airbus Fleet

Joramco, a specialist in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), has entered into a five-year agreement with German airline Condor to provide heavy maintenance services for the carrier’s entire Airbus fleet. Announced at MRO Middle East 2026 on February 4, this marks the first collaboration between the Amman-based MRO provider and Condor, underscoring Joramco’s expanding presence in the global aviation maintenance sector.

Scope of the Agreement and Strategic Significance

Under the terms of the contract, Joramco—an engineering subsidiary of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE)—will conduct base maintenance checks on Condor’s Airbus A320ceo, A320neo, and A330neo aircraft. This partnership highlights Joramco’s commitment to delivering maintenance services that adhere to the highest international standards, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner for airlines worldwide.

Fraser Currie, Chief Strategy and Commercial Officer at DAE Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership, emphasizing the company’s dedication to operational excellence. He noted that the long-term agreement reflects the confidence airlines place in Joramco’s capabilities and signaled intentions to further develop the collaboration.

Condor operates a fleet of 48 Airbus aircraft, including 17 A330neos and 12 A321-200s, having completed its transition to an all-Airbus fleet in November 2025 by retiring its last Boeing 757-300. Heiko Holm, Managing Director and Chief Technical Officer at Condor, described the partnership as a strategic move to support the airline’s operational goals. He praised Joramco’s reputation for quality and reliability, which aligns with Condor’s focus on operational excellence, continuous improvement, and the advancement of its digital maintenance strategy.

Context within the Middle East MRO Market

The agreement comes amid rapid growth in the Middle East’s MRO sector, which is experiencing heightened demand for qualified maintenance technicians. Industry leaders, including Lufthansa Technik Middle East CEO Ziad Al-Hazmi, have highlighted challenges related to recruiting and retaining skilled personnel in the face of this expansion. Additionally, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury has drawn attention to ongoing supply chain constraints that may impact the availability of essential parts and components for MRO operations.

As competition intensifies, established MRO providers are leveraging their expertise and workforce to secure new contracts. Joramco’s recent collaborations, such as its partnership with BlueLight Humanitarian Airlines for Airbus A340 maintenance, exemplify this trend. Market analysts observe that the region’s above-average growth, coupled with lingering workforce shortages from the pandemic, is driving increased demand for MRO services. This environment positions providers like Joramco to play a critical role in supporting airline operations across the Middle East and beyond.

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Rolls-Royce Acknowledges Thai Airways Shortfall, Plans Regional Recovery

Rolls-Royce Acknowledges Thai Airways Shortfall, Plans Regional Recovery

Rolls-Royce Acknowledges Thai Airways Shortfall, Plans Regional Recovery Challenges with Thai Airways and Engine Reliability Rolls-Royce is entering the final phase of its upgraded Trent 1000 XE engine for the Boeing 787 this quarter, aiming to regain its position in the fiercely competitive aircraft engine market. The British engineering firm has faced persistent reliability issues with its Trent 1000 engines, which have led to significant customer losses, most notably Thai Airways’ decision to switch suppliers two years ago. Speaking at the Singapore Airshow 2026, Ewen McDonald, Rolls-Royce’s chief customer officer for civil aerospace, openly acknowledged the company’s failure to retain Thai Airways. He attributed the airline’s move to a lack of technical confidence in the engine fixes rather than pricing concerns. Thai Airways opted for GE Aerospace’s GEnx engines for its 45 new Boeing 787s in 2024 after repeated criticism of the Trent 1000’s durability and prolonged maintenance periods, which extended up to 120 days compared to the previous 90-day standard. Rolls-Royce has defended its pricing strategy by citing industry-wide supply chain disruptions and geopolitical instability as key drivers behind recent cost increases. However, market reactions have been mixed, with some analysts urging original equipment manufacturers and suppliers to accelerate adaptation to advanced aircraft models and emerging technologies. The competitive environment remains intense, particularly in the Pacific region, where Air New Zealand, a traditional Rolls-Royce customer, has chosen GE engines for its five new Boeing 787s, despite its existing fleet of 14 Dreamliners continuing to operate with Rolls-Royce powerplants. Competitors are capitalizing on improvements in engine durability and supply chain efficiency to attract airlines prioritizing reliability and cost-effectiveness. Strategic Shift and Regional Focus In response, Rolls-Royce is transitioning from a defensive stance to a more assertive campaign to reclaim market share, with a particular focus on Southeast Asia, which it identifies as the fastest-growing aviation market globally. The company has rebranded its upgraded engine as the Trent 1000 XE, marking a clear departure from previous issues. According to McDonald, the initial “Phase 1” upgrade, already in service, has more than doubled the engine’s time-on-wing—a critical performance metric for airline operators. He emphasized the timing of these improvements, noting that when Thai Airways made its decision, the XE upgrades were still in early development. “Maybe if they’re looking at it today, they would have a different decision because the confidence point is much higher,” McDonald remarked. Beyond the Boeing 787 program, Rolls-Royce is also advancing efforts to enhance the durability of its largest engine for the Airbus A350-1000, aiming to reassure both customers and investors of its long-term commitment to reliability. While the company’s power systems and data centers segments show promising growth potential, the turnaround of its civil aerospace division remains a central priority. As Rolls-Royce finalizes the Trent 1000 XE upgrades and intensifies its recovery efforts in Southeast Asia, the market remains cautious. The company’s capacity to adapt to new technologies and restore confidence among major airline customers will be closely monitored in the coming months.
GE Aerospace Develops Aviation Technology at Singapore Facility

GE Aerospace Develops Aviation Technology at Singapore Facility

GE Aerospace Advances Aviation Technology at Singapore Facility GE Aerospace is making significant strides in aviation technology through substantial investments and innovation at its Singapore facility. In response to the rapidly evolving aviation sector, the company is concentrating on developing advanced technologies and new capabilities to sustain its competitive advantage in the global market. Strategic Role of the Singapore Facility The Singapore site, highlighted in the final segment of GE Aerospace’s three-part innovation series, serves as a critical hub in shaping the future of flight. Positioned at the forefront of next-generation aviation technology development, the facility exemplifies GE Aerospace’s dedication to powering the skies of tomorrow. This strategic location enables the company to accelerate research and development efforts, fostering breakthroughs that could redefine industry standards. Challenges and Market Response Despite the promising outlook, GE Aerospace faces several challenges in its Singapore operations. Navigating complex regulatory frameworks, ensuring seamless integration with the company’s global operations, and contending with intense competition from other leading aerospace firms present ongoing obstacles. Furthermore, the process of scaling and commercializing new technologies remains a significant hurdle as the company endeavors to transition innovations from the laboratory to the marketplace. Nevertheless, the market has responded positively to GE Aerospace’s initiatives. Investors have expressed confidence in the company’s robust financial position and growth prospects. The proactive stance adopted by GE Aerospace has also influenced competitors, prompting them to increase investments in research and development and to pursue strategic partnerships to safeguard their market positions. As GE Aerospace continues to expand its technological capabilities in Singapore, the facility is poised to become a cornerstone of the company’s global innovation strategy. These developments underscore GE Aerospace’s leadership within the aerospace industry and reflect a broader movement toward advanced and sustainable aviation technologies worldwide.
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Jets to WestJet

CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Jets to WestJet

CDB Aviation Expands WestJet’s Fleet with Three New Boeing 737-8 Jets CDB Aviation, the Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Limited, has delivered three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet, the Calgary-based Canadian carrier. This latest delivery increases the total number of 737-8 jets leased by WestJet from CDB Aviation to eight, reinforcing a partnership that has been active since 2020. The addition of these fuel-efficient aircraft aligns with WestJet’s broader strategy to expand and modernize its narrowbody fleet. Enhancing Fleet Efficiency and Passenger Experience The newly delivered Boeing 737-8 jets are designed to offer significant fuel savings and improved passenger amenities, including satellite-supported WiFi, which supports WestJet’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience. Luís da Silva, Head of Commercial for the Americas at CDB Aviation, highlighted the strength of the collaboration, noting that the company has financed and leased a total of 13 Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet to date. This ongoing partnership underscores CDB Aviation’s role in supporting the Canadian airline’s growth trajectory. WestJet, known for pioneering low-cost travel in Canada since its inception in 1996, continues to prioritize affordability and flexibility for its customers. Jennifer Bue, WestJet’s Senior Vice President and Treasurer, emphasized the value of the relationship with CDB Aviation, stating that it enables the airline to maintain momentum in executing its growth strategy. Industry Context and Strategic Developments The delivery of these aircraft occurs amid a highly competitive global airliner market, where Boeing and Airbus are navigating significant industry challenges. Boeing is currently undergoing an industrial reset aimed at achieving a financial turnaround and reinforcing safety standards. A key component of this effort is maintaining a stable production rate of 42 aircraft per month for the 737 MAX series. This focus on safety and production stability is particularly relevant as Japanese carriers ANA and JAL prepare to receive their first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in 2026. In response to passenger feedback, WestJet has recently reverted to its previous standard economy seat configuration, reflecting the airline’s commitment to customer comfort in a competitive environment. This decision aligns with broader industry trends where carriers strive to balance operational efficiency with passenger satisfaction. CDB Aviation’s delivery of these three additional 737-8 aircraft directly from its orderbook also reflects a shared commitment to environmentally conscious fleet modernization. Da Silva remarked on the importance of supporting WestJet’s expansion in an environmentally responsible manner. Looking ahead, WestJet’s continued fleet growth, including the planned integration of Sunwing in 2025, positions the airline to extend its reach across Canada and internationally, while maintaining its focus on cost-effective and customer-centric service.
Australia Launches System to Convert CO₂ into Aviation Fuel

Australia Launches System to Convert CO₂ into Aviation Fuel

Australia Unveils Innovative System to Convert CO₂ into Aviation Fuel Researchers at RMIT University in Australia have developed a groundbreaking technology that directly transforms industrial carbon dioxide emissions into components suitable for aviation fuel. Published in the journal *Nature Energy*, this advancement represents a significant stride toward decarbonizing the aviation industry, which remains one of the most challenging sectors to address in the global effort against climate change. Tackling the Aviation Sector’s Energy Challenge The aviation industry continues to rely predominantly on liquid fuels, as current battery technologies are insufficient to meet the energy demands of long-haul flights. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) derived from captured emissions is increasingly recognized as a strategic approach to reducing the sector’s carbon footprint while preserving operational feasibility. By converting CO₂ emissions into usable fuel, this technology offers a promising pathway to mitigate the environmental impact of air travel. A Streamlined and Practical Conversion Process The system developed by RMIT researchers introduces a novel, integrated method that captures and electrochemically converts CO₂ in a single step. This streamlined process reduces energy losses and technical complexity, resulting in lower overall energy consumption. Designed to operate near major emission sources, the technology can utilize exhaust gases directly, enhancing its suitability for industrial application. Professor Tianyi Ma, who leads the project, highlighted the significance of this integration: “By merging the conversion stages, we have managed to simplify the process and reduce unnecessary energy losses.” Industrial Viability and Development Roadmap A notable advantage of the RMIT system is its ability to function without the need for highly purified CO₂, making it adaptable to real-world industrial environments. Peng Li, the study’s lead author, emphasized that this flexibility is essential for practical deployment. The research team has constructed and tested a 3-kilowatt prototype under industrial conditions, evaluating its performance, stability, and energy efficiency. Their development plan includes scaling up to a 20-kilowatt pilot system, followed by a 100-kilowatt demonstrator, with the goal of achieving commercial maturity within six years. Market Prospects and Challenges Ahead The global market for sustainable aviation fuel is projected to reach $50 billion by 2036, reflecting both substantial growth potential and increasing competition. The introduction of this new fuel source could influence jet fuel pricing and provoke varied responses from industry players, including investments in similar technologies or strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing sustainable fuel portfolios. Despite its promise, the technology faces significant hurdles. High initial capital investment is required to develop and scale CO₂ conversion systems, and ensuring the economic viability of the resulting aviation fuel remains a critical concern. Additionally, navigating complex regulatory frameworks will be pivotal in determining the speed and extent of commercial adoption. Contribution to the Energy Transition The RMIT team underscores that their system is not a standalone solution but rather a practical tool to aid emission reductions during the transition to cleaner energy sources. Its greatest potential lies in providing a sustainable alternative for sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as aviation, while making productive use of emissions that would otherwise exacerbate global warming. If successfully scaled and commercialized, this Australian innovation could become an essential component in the broader portfolio of solutions required to combat climate change and transform the future of sustainable aviation.
1977 Piper PA-32R-300 Lance Reviewed as a Reliable Light Aircraft

1977 Piper PA-32R-300 Lance Reviewed as a Reliable Light Aircraft

1977 Piper PA-32R-300 Lance: A Reliable and Versatile Light Aircraft The 1977 Piper PA-32R-300 Lance continues to be recognized for its reliability and versatility within the light aircraft category. This model, highlighted today by Aircraft For Sale, exemplifies Piper’s response to evolving demands in general aviation, combining enhanced performance with practical design features that appeal to both pilots and passengers. Evolution and Design Features Piper’s development trajectory from the four-seat PA-28 Cherokee to the larger six-seat PA-32 Cherokee Six addressed a growing market need for more spacious and capable aircraft. The introduction of the Lance marked a significant advancement, incorporating retractable landing gear and other performance improvements aimed at increasing speed and efficiency. This model’s success laid the groundwork for the subsequent Saratoga, which enjoyed strong sales and remained in production into the early 2000s. The Lance’s cabin is designed to accommodate six occupants comfortably, making it well-suited for cross-country travel. Its club seating arrangement, where the second and third rows face each other, enhances legroom and fosters passenger interaction, providing a more enjoyable experience on longer flights. Families and small groups benefit from the additional space and baggage capacity compared to typical four-seat aircraft. Performance and Maintenance Pilots value the Lance for its robust Lycoming IO-540-K1G5D engine, stable handling characteristics, and substantial useful load capacity. The featured 1977 model has accumulated 2,222 hours on the airframe and 1,187 hours on the engine, with no history of damage. It offers a useful load of 1,412 pounds, supporting a range of mission profiles. Recent maintenance includes the installation of new engine oil hoses and a landing gear power pack in 2024, alongside a new ignition harness fitted in 2022. Additional enhancements such as Knots 2U wingtips, a shimmy damper, and Zero Breeze air conditioning contribute to both performance and comfort. The avionics suite has been modernized to meet contemporary standards, featuring Garmin GNS 530 and GNS 430 GPS/nav/com units, a GTX 330 transponder, GMA 345 audio panel, GDL SiriusXM receiver, JPI EDM 730 engine monitor, Piper Autocontrol IIIB autopilot, Davtron clock, uAvionix tailBeacon for ADS-B Out, and an ACK Technologies emergency locator transmitter. Market Context and Industry Trends While the Lance maintains its appeal as a dependable piston-powered aircraft, the broader aviation market is undergoing significant transformation driven by technological innovation and shifting priorities. Investments by the EU Defense Fund in small turbofan engines and light attack aircraft research indicate a trend toward advanced propulsion systems that may challenge traditional piston models. Concurrently, the retirement of legacy aircraft by forces such as the Royal Australian Air Force and innovation efforts by major manufacturers including Airbus and Boeing highlight the competitive pressures facing established designs. Market conditions, characterized by stable valuations and low inflation forecasts through 2026, suggest a steady yet competitive environment for light aircraft. The Lance’s proven track record must now contend with newer models incorporating cutting-edge technologies. Competitors are advancing rapidly, with developments such as Saab’s software-defined fuselage and Embraer’s emphasis on E2 sales underscoring the pace of change within the sector. Availability and Financing For pilots seeking a high-performance piston single with a spacious cabin and substantial useful load, the 1977 Piper PA-32R-300 Lance remains a compelling choice. The aircraft is currently listed at $189,900 on AircraftForSale, with financing options accessible through FLYING Finance. Prospective buyers can utilize available tools to estimate monthly payments and consult with aviation finance specialists to facilitate acquisition.
Boeing and Airbus Shares Rise Amid Potential Saudi Jet Order Talks

Boeing and Airbus Shares Rise Amid Potential Saudi Jet Order Talks

Boeing and Airbus Shares Rise on Prospective Saudi Aircraft Order Shares of Boeing and Airbus experienced modest gains on Thursday afternoon following reports that Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, Saudia, is engaged in preliminary discussions with both manufacturers regarding a potential aircraft purchase that could become the largest in the airline’s history. Each company’s stock rose approximately 0.5%, outperforming broader market declines as investors reacted favorably to the prospect of a substantial new contract. Details of the Potential Order and Saudia’s Fleet Strategy According to sources cited by Bloomberg, Saudia is contemplating the acquisition of at least 150 new aircraft, encompassing both narrowbody and widebody models. The airline, which currently operates a fleet of around 200 planes, is considering this purchase as part of a dual strategy to replace aging aircraft and expand its overall capacity. While specific models and quantities remain undecided, the discussions are understood to be in the early stages. This potential transaction follows a series of significant orders from Saudia in recent years. Earlier in 2024, the airline placed an order for 105 Airbus narrowbody jets, and in 2023, it committed to acquiring more than three dozen Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for an additional 10 aircraft. These developments underscore Saudia’s ongoing efforts to modernize and grow its fleet amid increasing demand for air travel in the Middle East. Implications for Boeing, Airbus, and the Aerospace Industry For Boeing and Airbus, securing an order of this scale would present both opportunities and challenges. Both manufacturers are currently under pressure to increase production rates to meet rising global demand, and a new large-scale order would further strain their supply chains and delivery schedules. Company leadership is expected to prioritize future aircraft decisions and production planning as competition intensifies. Market response to the news has been broadly positive, with investors viewing the potential Saudi order as a significant boost for both aerospace giants. However, the competitive landscape remains complex. Airbus continues to lead the single-aisle market, while Boeing is striving to regain its position in the narrowbody segment. Meanwhile, other manufacturers face their own strategic challenges: Embraer is focusing on increasing sales of its E2 jets rather than launching new airliner programs, and Bombardier is contending with heightened regulatory scrutiny following calls from former U.S. President Donald Trump to revoke certificates for all Bombardier Global aircraft. As Saudia evaluates its options, the outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications not only for Boeing and Airbus but also for the broader commercial aviation sector. The potential order highlights the ongoing competition for market share among major manufacturers and the operational complexities involved in meeting the demands of rapidly expanding airlines.
Centaurium Aviation MRO Ltd. Announces Ownership Change

Centaurium Aviation MRO Ltd. Announces Ownership Change

Centaurium Aviation MRO Ltd. Announces Ownership Change Amid Industry Evolution Centaurium Aviation MRO Ltd. has revealed a change in ownership as part of a planned succession strategy. Dr. Daniel Borer, the current owner, will step back from both operational and strategic management to focus on new private ventures. The transition involves a management buyout, with company shares transferred to Lukas Nyffenegger, who will assume ownership and leadership responsibilities. Nyffenegger brings extensive experience and deep industry knowledge, positioning him to steer Centaurium Aviation MRO Ltd. through its forthcoming phase. Dr. Borer emphasized the continuity this succession ensures, stating, “With this succession solution, we are ensuring that the company is well positioned and can continue on its successful path.” He expressed confidence that Nyffenegger’s expertise and dedication will foster sustainable development for the company. The handover of responsibilities will be gradual over the coming months, with no immediate changes expected in customer, partner, or employee interactions or service offerings. Navigating a Shifting MRO Landscape This ownership transition occurs amid significant changes within the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector, particularly in Latin America. While the market is expanding, it faces distinct regional challenges that require adept leadership. Industry analysts suggest that Centaurium’s new management will need to navigate an increasingly competitive environment, with stakeholders closely monitoring potential impacts on operational efficiency and service quality. Competitors are actively pursuing strategic initiatives to strengthen their market positions. The Adani Group, for instance, has recently expanded its footprint in the MRO sector through major acquisitions, reflecting a broader trend toward consolidation. This heightened activity may compel Centaurium to enhance its capabilities or explore partnerships to maintain its competitive advantage. Broader industry dynamics, including a wave of mergers and acquisitions in the United States driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and biopharmaceuticals, indicate that greater integration could soon influence the aviation MRO sector. As Centaurium Aviation MRO Ltd. embarks on this new chapter, strategic planning will be essential to sustain growth and resilience in a rapidly evolving market.
Jet.AI Revises FlyExclusive Transaction Details for Shareholders

Jet.AI Revises FlyExclusive Transaction Details for Shareholders

Jet.AI Revises FlyExclusive Transaction Details for Shareholders Ongoing Transaction and Regulatory Review Jet.AI, the Las Vegas-based aviation and technology firm, has provided shareholders with an updated status on its protracted transaction with FlyExclusive. Initially announced in February 2025, the deal remains incomplete after nearly a year of regulatory scrutiny. Executive Chairman Mike Winston, in a recent letter and press release, confirmed that the company is in the final stages of divesting its aviation business to FlyExclusive, one of the largest private jet operators in the United States. Upon completion, Jet.AI shareholders will hold two distinct securities: JTAI, which will focus on AI data center infrastructure, and FLYX, representing the expanding private aviation enterprise. The transaction has been under review by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), delayed primarily due to a single unresolved accounting comment concerning FlyExclusive’s 2023 financial disclosures. Winston characterized the issue as “an edge case” and acknowledged that the delay has extended beyond initial expectations. Both companies have worked diligently to resolve the matter, but if it remains unresolved, the issue may be addressed when FlyExclusive files its next Form 10-K for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This filing would update the S-4 registration statement and potentially eliminate the need to present the 2023 financial figures. Financial Impact and Market Context Winston also detailed the financial implications for Jet.AI shareholders contingent on the deal’s closure. Provided the transaction meets the minimum requirement of $12 million in positive net working capital, shareholders would receive approximately four million shares of FlyExclusive stock. Based on the most recent closing price of $3.32 per share as of January 29, 2026, this stake would be valued at roughly $13.4 million. The transfer of assets and working capital is expected to reduce Jet.AI’s operating expenses by approximately 30%. This update arrives amid heightened market sensitivity to disruptions driven by artificial intelligence. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal, advances in AI are posing significant challenges to traditional financial services, a trend that could influence Jet.AI’s competitive positioning. The software sector has experienced notable declines, with shares of software companies falling sharply amid concerns that AI technologies may supplant existing solutions. This broader environment suggests that Jet.AI faces intensified competitive pressures as rivals leverage AI innovations to capture market share, underscoring the critical importance of continued innovation in the company’s strategic outlook. Strategic Position and Future Prospects Founded in 2021 as a HondaJet fractional operator, Jet.AI has since expanded into jet cards and shifted away from very light jets. The completion of the FlyExclusive transaction would grant FlyExclusive access to Jet.AI’s pending order with Textron Aviation for light jets, further influencing the competitive dynamics within the private aviation sector. As the deal approaches its conclusion, Jet.AI’s leadership remains focused on overcoming regulatory challenges and adapting to a rapidly evolving market shaped by AI-driven innovation and shifting industry dynamics.
Ahmed bin Saeed Opens Record Editions of MRO and Aircraft Interiors Middle East

Ahmed bin Saeed Opens Record Editions of MRO and Aircraft Interiors Middle East

Ahmed bin Saeed Opens Record Editions of MRO and Aircraft Interiors Middle East DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Airline and Group, officially inaugurated the largest-ever editions of MRO Middle East and Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The two-day, co-located events attracted over 300 exhibitors and approximately 9,000 attendees, highlighting the Middle East’s growing prominence as a global hub for aviation services, innovation, and investment. Expanding Market and Workforce Challenges The record turnout at this year’s event reflects the rapid expansion of the Middle East’s aviation aftermarket sector, which is forecasted to achieve the world’s second-fastest compound annual growth rate over the next decade. As demand intensifies for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services alongside advanced cabin interior solutions, the industry is presented with both significant opportunities and challenges. A critical concern remains the shortage of qualified maintenance technicians, a problem exacerbated by workforce losses during the pandemic. This has led MRO providers to compete aggressively for skilled talent and to increase investments in workforce training programs to sustain growth. Fraser Currie, Chief Strategy and Commercial Officer of DAE Engineering, emphasized the region’s momentum during the panel discussion “Strategic Infrastructure Developments: Middle East MRO Landscape.” He noted, “The boom that Dubai and the region is having is incredible. People are making a choice to come here, with the old and well-tested UAE mantra of ‘build it and they will come’. Aerospace is expanding, Airbus is building facilities at DWC, flydubai is building its own facility, and by 2030 Emirates will be moving its hangars to DWC. This region is a friendly, supportive environment where people want to work, and that is why we are seeing this boom, along with access to some of the largest expanding markets in the world.” Innovation and Strategic Investments on Display At the 17th edition of the events, exhibitors showcased cutting-edge developments in cabin design, AI-powered maintenance tools, robotics, supply chain solutions, ground support equipment, and safety technologies. A particular focus remained on robust aftermarket support for older aircraft models, as global air traffic demand continues to rise steadily. Andi Fahrurrozi, President and CEO of GMF AeroAsia, announced the opening of the company’s new Middle East facility, describing it as a strategic response to the region’s rapid fleet support growth. “This is not just a new location, but a direct response to the incredible growth of fleet support in this region. By bringing Heavy and Line Maintenance closer to our partners, we are providing faster turnaround times and strengthening the regional aviation ecosystem at the same time,” he stated. In a fireside interview, Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, Saudi Arabia’s youngest and fastest-growing low-cost carrier, discussed the airline’s expansion and the swift development of maintenance capabilities within the kingdom. He remarked, “Every LCC today is looking at what capability they can bring in house, and flyadeal is no different. Saudi Arabia has invested billions of dollars in a major maintenance facility in Jeddah, and the landscape will change dramatically over the next couple of years.” As the Middle East’s MRO market continues to gain momentum, industry leaders at MRO Middle East and AIME 2026 remain focused on innovation, workforce development, and strategic investment to address the evolving demands of the sector.
Profile: Ben Sibbald

Profile: Ben Sibbald

Profile: Ben Sibbald From London to Germany: A Career Shaped by Circumstance and Ambition Ben Sibbald’s journey into the world of airline payments was not a predetermined path but rather a series of fortuitous decisions shaped by personal and professional circumstances. In the period leading up to Brexit, Sibbald relocated from London to Germany, motivated by his wife’s job opportunities in both Cambridge and Germany and a desire to experience life abroad before new political and economic barriers took hold. Nearly ten years on, he has established himself in a village south of Frankfurt and now serves as Head of Payments at Hahnair, a global leader in airline distribution solutions. Sibbald’s entry into finance was, by his own admission, “by luck.” His career began in an outbound call centre before progressing through retail banking at HSBC and advancing into corporate banking. Eventually, he specialised in payments with CashFlows, a diverse background that now informs his approach to one of the airline industry’s most complex challenges: managing payments across an extensive and international network. Navigating Complexity in Global Airline Payments Hahnair operates on a formidable scale, connecting more than 400 airlines with over 100,000 travel agencies across 190 markets worldwide. This expansive reach facilitates ticket sales from major metropolitan hubs to emerging destinations, but it also introduces significant complexity. Integrating a wide array of payment methods across diverse regions requires not only advanced technological solutions but also a nuanced understanding of local markets and regulatory environments. Sibbald and his team are tasked with ensuring seamless payment acceptance while navigating a complex web of global financial regulations. They maintain strong partnerships with airlines and travel agents, acting as the critical link between customers and travel companies. “We are the bridge between customers and travel companies, helping them to complete the transaction,” Sibbald explains. “If the transaction’s not completed, you don’t get the service.” The team’s responsibilities extend beyond transaction facilitation. They continuously evaluate which payment methods are essential, desirable, or could provide marketing advantages. This process involves researching emerging payment options, consulting with external partners, implementing new solutions, and managing these systems throughout their lifecycle. Challenges and Industry Dynamics The challenges faced by Sibbald and Hahnair are considerable. Compliance with a patchwork of international financial regulations remains a constant concern, alongside the need to maintain trust and cooperation within Hahnair’s extensive network of partners. As the company expands its payment services, it attracts close scrutiny from market observers who monitor its financial health and strategic direction. Competitors are also intensifying their efforts, innovating payment solutions and seeking exclusive partnerships to secure or enhance their market positions. In this competitive landscape, Sibbald’s role demands not only expertise but also adaptability. His progression from a UK call centre to leading payments at one of the world’s most expansive airline networks exemplifies the unpredictability and opportunity inherent in the global travel industry. As Hahnair continues to evolve, Sibbald’s capacity to navigate complexity and drive innovation remains central to the company’s ongoing success.
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