Podcast: The Impact of the Rolls-Royce and Turkish Technic Partnership on Trent MRO

The Rolls-Royce and Turkish Technic Partnership: Transforming Trent Engine MRO

Rolls-Royce is expanding its aftermarket network through a strategic partnership with Turkish Technic, integrating the latter into its TotalCare support program. This collaboration, announced on May 7 at Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul facilities, represents a significant development in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) landscape for Trent engines in the region. Aviation Week Network’s executive editor for MRO and Business Aviation, Lee Ann Shay, alongside EMEA MRO editor James Pozzi, have examined the implications of this alliance.

Expanding Capacity and Service Reach

The agreement reflects Rolls-Royce’s broader strategy to enhance capacity across its global MRO network amid a resurgence in demand for widebody engine maintenance. Several Rolls-Royce engine programs are entering phases of increased shop visit activity, making this expansion timely. Unlike a conventional joint venture, Turkish Technic will provide full MRO services for two critical Rolls-Royce widebody engine programs: the Trent XWB and the Trent 7000. The Istanbul facility is set to manage repairs for the Trent XWB’s -97 and -84 variants, which power the Airbus A350, as well as the Trent 7000 engine that powers the Airbus A330neo. Since entering service in late 2018, the Trent 7000 has accumulated nearly two million flying hours, indicating an imminent rise in maintenance demand.

By joining the Trent TotalCare network, Turkish Technic will offer comprehensive engine services not only to Turkish Airlines—the world’s largest operator of the Trent XWB with substantial future commitments—but also to third-party carriers. The facility aims to reach an annual capacity of up to 200 shop visits by the end of 2027, thereby improving efficiency and throughput for Trent engine maintenance in the region.

Challenges and Market Implications

While the partnership is broadly welcomed, it presents challenges in integrating Turkish Technic’s operations within Rolls-Royce’s established network. Ensuring seamless service delivery and maintaining consistent quality standards will require meticulous coordination. Nevertheless, initial responses from the market have been positive, with industry experts highlighting the potential for enhanced efficiency and expanded service options for operators.

This development is also expected to provoke competitive responses, as rival firms may seek to reinforce their own partnerships or upgrade their service offerings to preserve market share. As Rolls-Royce and Turkish Technic collaborate to optimize Trent MRO processes, the partnership is positioned to establish new standards for engine maintenance in the region.

For further insights and detailed analysis of the evolving MRO sector, Aviation Week’s MRO Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major platforms.