Reuters
• Giulia Segreti, Tim Hepher
Airbus and Leonardo are investigating a manufacturing-quality issue involving a protective coating on an A321neo structural reinforcement. The defect does not compromise flight safety, but affected airlines must complete repairs within two years—shorter than the standard four-year maintenance cycle—as Airbus manages delivery pressure.
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A court has dismissed Aeroflot’s $28.5 million claim against an MRO provider, ending the reported dispute in the firm’s favor. The ruling highlights the legal and financial exposure that can arise from disagreements between airlines and maintenance providers.
High activity
Airbus and Leonardo are investigating a manufacturing-quality issue involving a protective coating on an A321neo structural reinforcement. The defect does not compromise flight safety, but affected airlines must complete repairs within two years—shorter than the standard four-year maintenance cycle—as Airbus manages delivery pressure.
High activity
China Airlines selected Safran to overhaul landing gear on its 18 Airbus A350-900s from 2026 through 2031, while Japan Airlines renewed Boeing 787 component support with Lufthansa Technik. Hebei Airlines and FTAI Aviation also advanced CFM56 maintenance arrangements and regional service capacity.
SATS is piloting autonomous cargo vehicles carrying up to 800 kilograms between Changi terminals and freight forwarders’ warehouses, while Singapore Airlines and DHL Express renew an agreement covering five Boeing 777 freighters. SIA will continue providing crews and maintenance for DHL’s Singapore-based intercontinental network.
Colombia’s Avianca has secured $300 million in financing for an MRO service in Brazil. The investment gives the airline additional capacity to develop its maintenance, repair and overhaul activities in the country, although the available reporting does not specify the facility, partners or implementation timeline.
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United Airlines has taken delivery of the first Airbus A321XLR equipped with Pratt & Whitney’s GTF Advantage turbofan, making it the engine’s launch airline customer. The upgraded PW1100G variant is designed to deliver greater thrust, longer range and up to twice the time on wing of earlier versions.
Togo-based ASKY Airlines plans to expand to 30 aircraft and 40 destinations within five years, including the launch of intercontinental services to Europe. The carrier also intends to establish a $100 million maintenance, repair and overhaul facility in Lomé, strengthening its planned regional infrastructure footprint.
Chromalloy is pursuing growing demand for replacement engine airfoils as shortages continue, securing another FAA approval for a Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) component. The move expands its ability to offer approved alternatives in an aftermarket where constrained supply is creating additional opportunity for parts manufacturers.
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