AAR and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) announced the completion of the formation of xCelle Asia, which included the receipt of regulatory approval. This previously announced joint venture, located in Chonburi, Thailand, will overhaul nacelles for new generation aircraft.
Building on the success of AAR and AFI KLM E&M’s existing joint venture in the Americas, xCelle Asia will provide unparalleled service and support for operators in the APAC region. Licensed by multiple OEMs, xCelle Asia can perform nacelle maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, including on-wing/on-site inspections, and rotable support for next generation aircraft nacelles, including GEnx, Trent1000, LEAP-1A/1B engine types. Other new-generation aircraft and engine types will follow.
“This joint venture markedly expands our service offerings in the Asia-Pacific region and furthers our ability to deliver high quality, industry leading solutions to our customers,” said Jim Berberet, Senior Vice President of Component Services at AAR. “We are looking forward to replicating our current success in the Americas by combining the experience of AAR’s highly regarded Component Services team in Thailand with AFI KLM E&M’s global network.”
“The creation of xCelle Asia represents a major step forward in strengthening our global MRO network. By expanding our nacelle capabilities into the Asia-Pacific region, we are positioning ourselves to deliver world-class, next-generation support closer to our customers. This new venture reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, and we are proud to bring our expertise to one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets,” said Benjamin Moreau, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at AFI KLM E&M.
AAR extends deals with Collins Aerospace, Arkwin Industries
AAR has signed a multi-year extension of its exclusive global distribution agreement with Collins Aerospace. The agreement includes the company’s Goodrich de-icing and specialty systems product line. The collaboration supports Collins Aerospace’s strategy to streamline aftermarket distribution by leveraging AAR’s global logistics network to serve customers across the general aviation, commercial, and defense markets. “AAR is proud to continue delivering availability, responsiveness, and technical support to the wide range of customers who rely on Collins Aerospace Goodrich de-icing solutions,” said Frank Landrio, AAR’s Senior Vice President of Distribution. “Our execution and ability to gain market share have resulted in tremendous growth of this product line.”
AAR also said it has signed a multi-year extension of its exclusive, global distribution agreement with Arkwin Industries. The agreement covers Arkwin’s broad line of actuation, valve, and reservoir products on various engine and airframe platforms for the commercial aviation aftermarket. “AAR is pleased to extend our relationship with Arkwin,” said Frank Landrio, AAR’s Senior Vice President of Distribution. “Given the increase in engine repair activity, we will continue to meet the needs of our customers through our proven ability to execute.”
“Our collaboration to provide reliable products, component exchange and kitting services, in-region stocking, and warranty management have been game changers for our global customers,” said Omar Peele, Arkwin Industries’ Vice President of Sales & Marketing.
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