Category: Commercial

RH Aero Systems Expands Middle East Operations with New 2,800 sqm Facility in Dubai South

RH Aero Systems is expanding its presence in the Middle East with a new 2,800 sqm facility in Dubai South’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH). This state-of-the-art location, spanning four units of 700 sqm each, will serve as a central hub for Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and Tooling Services, bringing together the expertise of Rhinestahl and HYDRO Systems under one roof. The facility is set to be fully operational in 2025, reinforcing RH Aero’s ability to support regional airlines, MROs, and OEMs with enhanced efficiency and service capabilities.

Dubai South, home to Al Maktoum International Airport, is a strategic aviation hub positioned for future growth. RH Aero Systems’ investment is more than just expanding our presence — it’s about becoming an integral part of our customers’ operations, workflows, and maintenance processes. By embedding our expertise directly into their ecosystems, we ensure seamless integration, optimized turnaround times, and localized support that aligns with their specific operational needs. With solutions tailored to enhance efficiency, safety, and reliability, RH Aero says it is committed to strengthening the long-term success of airlines, MROs, and OEMs in the Middle East.

“This expansion marks a significant milestone for RH Aero Systems in the Middle East,” said Christian Hug, head of portfolio management service at RH Aero Systems. “By combining our HYDRO and Rhinestahl expertise under one roof, we are strengthening our ability to provide premium support to airlines and MROs. The new facility reflects our commitment to delivering top-tier solutions with enhanced speed and efficiency.”

A Legacy of Growth in the Region

RH Aero Systems has been a key player in the UAE aviation sector for over 15 years, starting in 2009 at the AIRBUS Warehouse in Dubai. Over time, the company expanded, moving to DAFZA in 2015, and later into a 700 sqm facility in 2019. The new Dubai South facility represents the next stage of growth, offering unmatched capabilities and efficiency for aviation support services.

With this move, RH Aero Systems says it is reaffirming its commitment to advancing aviation maintenance, optimizing industry processes, and delivering world-class support solutions.

ITP Aero Opens New Manufacturing Center — Prime Minister of the Spanish Government Pedro Sánchez Attends

ITP Aero has inaugurated its advanced manufacturing center ADMIRE, which will accelerate the company’s transformation toward more sustainable aviation and employ more than 150 highly qualified professionals. The company has invested 24 million euros in this new center, located at ITP Aero’s headquarters in Zamudio (Bizkaia, Spain), which will enable the research of new materials, the development of new high-complexity components, and the enhancement of repairs, offering solutions to address the accelerated growth of commercial aviation and the new needs of the FCAS (Future Combat Air System).

The inauguration was attended by the Prime Minister of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez, the Lehendakari of the Basque Government, Imanol Pradales, as well as other authorities and business leaders from the global industrial sector. 

Eva Azoulay, CEO of ITP Aero Group, commented, “The inauguration of this center demonstrates our commitment to more sustainable aviation, at a time when commercial aviation, the main growth engine of our company, has a significant need for new technological solutions to meet future engine demand. ADMIRE will be a catalyst for employment and industry in the Basque Country. We will continue to work to further position Spain as a leading country in the global aerospace industry.”

Ivano Sessa, co-head of Private Equity Europe at Bain Capital, said, “At Bain Capital, we support ITP Aero in its determination to become a global leader in the sector, with a strong commitment to technology, innovation, and the growth of the industrial footprint. ITP Aero’s growth is remarkable, and at this rate, it will soon be one of the largest companies in the sector. ITP Aero has capitalized on the dynamism of commercial aviation, and we are confident that it will continue to lead this market with flexible and efficient solutions.”

Since Bain Capital’s arrival in 2022, ITP Aero has invested more than 235 million euros, with a record industrial and technological investment plan that positions the company as an industrial giant in commercial aviation. This includes the acquisition of BP Aero, a leading provider of aviation engine aftermarket services located in Dallas, Texas, USA, as well as a new casting plant and a new logistics center in the production hub of Querétaro, Mexico, in addition to significant investments in the company’s plants in Bizkaia (Barakaldo, Derio, and Zamudio).

Record Growth Driven by Commercial Aviation

Coinciding with its 35th anniversary, ITP Aero is experiencing a period of significant growth, driven by the dynamism of the commercial aviation sector, which currently accounts for 70% of its business. This growth is the result of ITP Aero’s strong positioning in the commercial aerospace market and inorganic growth fueled by its ability to expand its services and client portfolio as a result of being an independent company, thanks to its shareholder consortium.

This growth has led to a solid increase of up to 1,200 employees in the past two years since the arrival of Bain Capital, bringing the total to 5,700 people worldwide. Currently, ITP Aero is a technology partner in 40% of the commercial aircraft engines delivered annually, resulting in over 5,000 engines currently in service. ITP Aero powers six aircraft takeoffs per minute worldwide.

In 2025, ITP Aero will continue to be committed to its growth strategy, which will include organic investments and targeted M&A actions, aimed at strengthening its global presence and positioning in the commercial MRO market.

More Innovation in 2025

A key focus of ITP Aero’s investment plan is innovation, which is highlighted by the inauguration of ADMIRE. This new facility will play a key role in finding solutions for more sustainable aviation engines through sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), hybridization, and hydrogen. Additionally, the center will address propulsion challenges for new defense platforms and implement more efficient manufacturing processes.

Specifically, ADMIRE will focus on four key technologies:

  • Additive manufacturing (3D printing).
  • Advanced casting.
  • Advanced repair and welding, a key factor for sustainability, reducing waste in the manufacturing of original equipment and extending the service life of components.
  • Industry 4.0. Implementation of machine learning and AI for complete process optimization.

RH Aero Systems Strengthens MRO Capabilities for LEAP Engines in Collaboration with GE Aerospace and UAMCO

RH Aero Systems and UAMCO signed an agreement with an advanced maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility for CFM LEAP engines. In close collaboration with GE Aerospace, RH Aero is providing critical tooling solutions and lifecycle management support to UAMCO, ensuring operational readiness and efficiency.

Since the initial discussions in July 2022, RH Aero has worked closely with GE Aerospace and UAMCO to establish their new facility in Cyprus. With GE Aerospace playing a key role in facilitating the project, RH Aero supplied 100% OEM-aligned LEAP tooling, integrated its industry-leading Readiness Hub for advanced tool lifecycle management, and delivered essential training and technical expertise. The successful execution of this initiative has positioned RH Aero as a central partner in ensuring effective LEAP engine maintenance capabilities in the region.

Key Contributions of RH Aero Systems:

  • Comprehensive Tooling Solutions: RH Aero supplied high-precision, OEM-licensed LEAP engine tooling, ensuring full compliance with industry standards and optimal operational efficiency.
  • Readiness Hub Implementation: Readiness Hub, RH Aero’s proprietary tool management platform, was integrated to provide real-time tracking, lifecycle management, and compliance assurance.
  • Technical Training & Support: RH Aero specialists conducted on-site training and ongoing technical assistance to ensure seamless operations and adherence to best practices.
  • Strategic Industry Collaboration: RH Aero worked closely with GE Aerospace to align tooling and maintenance solutions with global aviation standards, reinforcing a long-term commitment to supporting LEAP engine operators across the region.

“RH Aero is dedicated to providing industry-leading tooling and lifecycle management solutions that enhance operational efficiency and reliability,” said Marin Rosich, regional director and RH Aero’s key representative in the project. “Our collaboration with GE Aerospace and UAMCO underscores our commitment to equipping MRO providers with the necessary tools and expertise to meet evolving industry demands.”

With this initiative, RH Aero further strengthens its position as a global provider of comprehensive aviation maintenance solutions. The collaboration with GE Aerospace and UAMCO marks a significant step toward enhancing the MRO ecosystem for LEAP engines, benefiting airlines and operators across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Air Turbine Technology Highlights Air Turbine Spindles New 601 Series at 65,000/90,000 RPM

Air Turbine Technology Inc. Highlights Air Turbine Spindles New 601 Series at 65,000/90,000 RPM
Ideal for machinists and programmers to enhance performance and productivity with small cutting tools.

Air Turbine Technology Inc., the leading manufacturer of revolutionary high-speed turbine products, highlights its new Air Turbine Spindles® 601 Series Spindle. This innovative spindle combines constant high-speed in cut, energy efficiency and a user-friendly design. As a result of its governed high-speed performance the 601 Series is an invaluable addition in any CNC magazine to accelerate productivity and reduce costs in today’s fast-paced industrial landscape.

The compact 601 Series Spindle incorporates Air Turbine Technology Inc.’s patented governor technology, which increases CFM airflow on demand to maintain constant speeds of 40,000 to 90,000 RPM under cutting load on the toolpath through the program. The 601 Series Spindle provides up to 0.2 HP (0.15 kW) power, delivering ample power for micro-machining applications – although Air Turbine Technology Inc.’s range includes spindles with power to 1.4HP (1kW) for larger tools and hard materials.

This unique governed turbine maintains the required surface feet per minute (SFM) and chip load for micro and small tools by sustaining high RPM on the toolpath.

Cycle Times are routinely reduced 6 to 10 x compared to standard CNC spindles at 6,000 RPM to at most 20,000 RPM. Maintaining high-speed in cut also optimizes tool performance, eliminating tool breakage and ensures the production of standardized high-quality parts.

Air Turbine Technology Inc.’s direct drive 601 spindle generates no heat, delivering consistent with 2-micron accuracy with no thermal growth in the spindle. No maintenance is needed and just 2 moving parts makes this high-speed spindle reliable.

A connection to 90 psi (6.2 bar) air is all that required to make any CNC a high-speed machine. Fully automated loading is available using air supply through the machine spindle, a collar and stop block or manual connection through the side air inlet. Easy installation minimizes downtime, allowing manufacturers to quickly adapt to changing production demands.

The high-speed capabilities of the 601 Air Turbine Spindle® streamline production by the elimination of secondary operations. Moreover, micro tools are expensive. Big savings result from optimization of small tool performance and life. Governed high-speed also enhances the overall surface quality of the finished products.

The 50 mm extended barrel on the 601 Series reaches into tight workpiece operations allowing greater maneuverability and access to pockets, angles and hard-to-reach areas. These dimensions enhance access and tool performance on all machines, including those with limited Z-Axis travel as well as 360˚5-Axis programming. Another great advantage is that the 601 design eliminates the need for long cutting tool stick-out from the spindle collet in angles or pockets causing vibration, tool breakage and poor surface quality.

Precision is paramount in the 601 Series Spindle design. Notably, Air Turbine Spindles® generate no heat, ensuring consistent accuracy during extended use. Operation with no heat also eliminates the need for a duty cycle, allowing continuous 24/7 operation without requiring cool-down periods. No lubrication is required in this high-speed turbine – eliminating contamination of parts from misting. This feature is especially important to the medical and food industries. Oil-free operation also reduces maintenance and lubrication costs.

Most popular taper options are available, including HSK-A63, CAT40, BT40, BT30, DIN30, DIN40, and 20mm JS straight shank enabling flexible use with any spindle taper.

Jamco Corporation Showcases Customizable Lavatory Solutions for an Accessible In-Flight Experience

Jamco Corporation, aircraft interior products and turnkey integrations provider, is highlighting its line of customizable lavatory solutions, designed to enhance accessibility and improve passenger comfort. These innovative designs cater to diverse passenger needs, ensuring a seamless and inclusive experience for all travelers.

Jamco’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its advanced solutions for passengers with reduced mobility (PRMs). By offering lavatory designs that accommodate the unique needs of PRMs, Jamco empowers airlines to foster a more welcoming and user-friendly environment.

In December, Jamco representatives participated in a panel discussion at a RedCabin Aircraft Interiors event in Tokyo, where industry leaders emphasized accessibility in airline design. Jamco was invited on the panel to discuss airline accessibility and their recent collaborate effort with JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) on the “Metamorphic Lavatory” concept. This creatively designed lavatory introduces accessibility features never before available in passenger aircraft lavatories and Jamco continues to set new standards for inclusive air travel.

In addition to accessibility, Jamco’s lavatories incorporate thoughtful features to address a variety of use cases. From layouts that prioritize ease of movement for caregivers assisting passengers with reduced mobility, to multipurpose spaces that accommodate nursing or provide quiet zones for children, Jamco’s designs are built for versatility.

“Jamco is dedicated to enhancing the customer experience through innovative, customizable solutions,” says Masafumi Shimada, general manager of marketing and sales. “Our designs not only improve accessibility but offer flexibility to meet the evolving demands of airlines and passengers.”
As a trusted provider of interior solutions for leading aircraft manufacturers, Jamco continues to prioritize passenger comfort and airline efficiency.

Infosys, Lufthansa Group, and Lufthansa Systems Collaborate to Accelerate Digital Innovation in the Aviation Industry

Infosys announced a strategic, long-term collaboration with Lufthansa Group (LHG), and Lufthansa Systems (LSY), airline IT provider, to accelerate digital transformation and drive innovation in the aviation industry.

As part of the engagement, LSY and Infosys will establish a dedicated Global Capability Center (GCC) in Bengaluru, India. This GCC is aimed to enhance Lufthansa Group’s software and product development as well as increase support for LSY’s products for the external airline market customers. The center will develop future-ready and sustainable aviation IT products and data-driven solutions leveraging the capabilities of Infosys Topaz, an AI-first offering using generative AI technologies. These solutions will help LHG and LSY customers to improve their aviation safety, efficiency, customer experience, and competitiveness while enabling them to manage volatile demand.

The GCC will accelerate Lufthansa Group’s digital transformation by adopting modern technologies and AI. Working closely with LSY, the GCC will enhance existing solutions across critical functions including finance, flight navigation, network & schedule design, and aircraft & crew operations.

“The aviation industry is facing unprecedented challenges, from volatile fuel prices and increasing operational complexities to global political uncertainties,” said Thomas Rückert, CIO of Lufthansa Group. “In this context, our collaboration with Infosys reflects our shared commitment to excellence in aviation by addressing these challenges and shaping the future of air travel. Infosys’ expertise in digitalization and innovation using AI and data-driven solutions will be instrumental in optimizing our operations, enhancing passenger experiences, increasing the productivity and stability of our operational processes — for sustainable growth.”

Thomas Wittmann – CEO, Lufthansa Systems, said, “At Lufthansa Systems, we champion a modular approach to solutions and collaborations, ensuring adaptability and tailoring to the unique needs of each airline. This principle extends perfectly to our collaboration with Infosys. By combining our deep aviation expertise with Infosys’s global technology prowess and establishing a dedicated Global Capability Center (GCC), we are not only enhancing our one-stop-shop offerings but also accelerating the pace of digital innovation across the aviation industry. This collaboration empowers us to deliver cutting-edge solutions with greater agility and scale, ultimately benefiting our airline customers with more efficient, innovative, and cost-effective technologies.”

Ashiss Kumar Dash, EVP and global head – services, utilities, resources, energy and austainability, Infosys, said, “Entering into this long-term collaboration with Lufthansa Group and Lufthansa Systems demonstrates the confidence leaders in the aviation industry have in Infosys’ cutting-edge technologies and domain expertise. By leveraging our AI-readiness with Infosys Topaz and industry cloud solutions like Infosys Cobalt Airline Cloud, we will help Lufthansa Group optimize operations and enhance customer experiences, paving the way for a new era of sustainable and efficient air travel.”

Over the years, Infosys has worked with industry leaders including aerospace original equipment manufacturers, top global airlines, and digital-native travel platform and solution providers to deliver innovative technology solutions and industry expertise across the aviation value chain. By leveraging its recent launch of Infosys Cobalt Airline Cloud, a first-of-its-kind industry offering, Infosys says it is poised to revolutionize passenger experiences, drive operational efficiency and contribute to the aviation industry’s sustainability initiatives.

GA Telesis Engine Services (GATES) USA SPAH Extends Further into CFM and CF6 Aftermarket Services with GE Aerospace On-Wing Offload Support Services

GA Telesis Engine Services, GATES SPAH, a joint venture between GA Telesis and Air Transport Services Group located in Wilmington, Ohio, announced a new agreement with GE Aerospace On-Wing Support (OWS) in Florence, Ky. near Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). The agreement provides for on-wing maintenance offload services for GE Aerospace CF6 engines, and for CFM56 engines from CFM International, the 50/50 joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.

This agreement allows for additional support for open MRO ecosystems for both CFM56 and CF6 engines. GA Telesis’ location at Wilmington, Ohio’s ILN Airport is an hour’s drive from OWS near CVG, and  is in southeast Ohio’s aerospace corridor, which is anchored by the global headquarters of GE Aerospace. This positions the partnership for fast turn times, simplified logistics, and a skilled workforce to support customer needs.

“Expanding our support to include on-wing maintenance requirements from GE Aerospace represents another significant step forward in GA Telesis’ mission to deliver end-to-end engine solutions for our customers,” said Jason Reed, president of GATES USA SPAH. “By offering this capability, we not only enhance our service portfolio but also reinforce our commitment to providing local, Americas-based, innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry,” he added.

This latest initiative aligns with GA Telesis’ broader strategy of expanding its Engine Services capabilities and further solidifies its position as a trusted partner to the global aviation community.

C&L Aviation Group Installs Starlink Through STC Development for ERJ 140/135/145/Legacy 600

C&L Aviation Services, a C&L Aviation Group company, has completed the installation of a SpaceX Starlink satcom system on an Embraer ERJ 140 aircraft. C&L, an authorized Starlink dealer,partnered with Aerospace Design & Compliance LLC to amend its existing ERJ 135/145 supplemental type certificate (STC) to install Starlink connectivity on ERJ 140. This recent installation paves the way for future installation projects on ERJ 140/135/145/Legacy 600 aircraft. 

“Developing this STC and installing Starlink on ERJ aircraft points C&L in the right direction for future connectivity support,” said Charlie Carrol, Avionics Sales Manager for C&L Aviation Services. “Starlink is gaining traction in the aviation world, and we at C&L look forward to growing our relationship with them.” 

Starlink provides global coverage via the world’s largest satellite constellation and features high-performance connectivity, including content streaming and video calls in addition to talk and text. Their technology allows for up to 220+ Mbps for downloading and up to 25+ Mbps for uploading.

Teledyne CML Composites Transforms Digital Manufacturing with iBase-t’s Solumina

iBase-t, the global leader in cloud software for Aerospace and Defense industries, announces Teledyne CML Composites, UK has chosen iBase-t’s Solumina Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and Enterprise Quality Management System (EQMS) to revolutionize its shop floor operations. This partnership will enable Teledyne to identify and implement opportunities for cost and cycle time reduction while addressing key challenges in technician hiring and training.

“At Teledyne we understand the critical importance of digital transformation,” Brian Hynes, NPI & engineering manager, at Teledyne CML composites stated. “By leveraging iBase-t’s extensive domain expertise, Teledyne is advancing its objectives of increasing production capacity, enhancing data integrity and availability, improving on-time delivery, and meeting stringent quality requirements.”

Achieving Business Goals Through Digital Transformation

Both Teledyne and iBase-t recognize that aligning process and solution initiatives with core business objectives ensures a higher degree of success, a shorter time to value, and greater returns on investment. Solumina’s ability to unify digital workflows across design, manufacturing, and quality disciplines is instrumental in enabling Teledyne to:

•  Support increased annual production demands.
•  Enhance data quality for better reporting, searching, and traceability.
•  Reduce engineering change backlogs, improving compliance and overall quality.
•  Reduce nonconformance rework by 80%.
•  Reduce scrap by 50%.

Addressing Workforce Challenges with Solumina

In an environment where competition for skilled technicians is fierce, Teledyne is leveraging Solumina to create a modern work environment where every necessary piece of information is available at employees’ fingertips. By ensuring data is entered only once, validated in real-time, and readily accessible, Solumina simplifies training and reduces the learning curve for new technicians.

“Solumina not only simplifies how technicians interact with complex data but also ensures that insights are actionable and aligned with business objectives,” said Naveen Poonian, CEO of iBase-t. “This approach fosters a smarter, more agile workforce equipped to meet the demands of Aerospace and Defense manufacturing.”

Becoming a Model-Based Enterprise

With Solumina, Teledyne is on the path to becoming a model-based enterprise. This approach unifies digital workflows and production data specifications across all critical disciplines, fostering collaboration and streamlining operations. By embracing digital manufacturing, Teledyne is setting a new standard for operational efficiency and quality in the A&D sector.

“Teledyne’s adoption of Solumina demonstrates a commitment to leveraging necessary technology to achieve measurable business outcomes,” added Poonian. “We are proud to support them in their journey toward a model-based enterprise.”

Merlin and Quikjet Partner to Conduct In-Flight Pilot Fatigue Study

Merlin, developer of autonomous flight technology for fixed-wing aircraft, announced a study in partnership with leading cargo airline, Quikjet, to assess pilot fatigue levels while in-flight. The intent of the study is to assess how wellness factors impact pilot performance, informing both new standards in safety and operational efficiency across airlines and the aviation industry as well as the ongoing design and development of the Merlin Pilot.

The study consists of gathering physiological data from a pool of Quikjet’s commercial pilots in-flight to track health factors such as stress levels, sleep quality, body temperature, heart rate, and more. The data will be captured using WHOOP wearable devices, which are renowned for their accuracy and ability to track key vitals in real-time, combined with a modified Psychomotor Vigilance Test (PVT), which evaluates a human’s ability to sustain attention. Together, the two outputs will provide a data-rich fatigue assessment as well as create predictive models that can forecast pilot fatigue based on established flying schedules.

“Merlin is committed to enhancing aviation safety, with a core focus of our work being to understand all facets of the pilot experience during flight operations, from crew workload to personal health impacts,” said Matt George, CEO and founder, Merlin. “The uniqueness of this study is that we are analyzing pilot fatigue both in and outside of flight operations, versus other studies done in simulated environments. This data provides us with a deeper, more accurate representation of pilot wellness in real-world conditions, which is pivotal to enhancing aviation safety. The study also supports our ongoing focus on human factors-driven innovation, where we’re continuously looking at how advanced automation can be a collaborative technology for pilots.”