China Central Longhao Airlines – operating as Air Central – has opted for StandardAero to deliver maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) support for its CFM International CFM56-7B engines. These engines power the airline’s Boeing 737-800BCF freighter fleet.
The collaboration began last month with the induction of the first engine for a performance restoration shop visit at StandardAero’s facility in Winnipeg, Canada. StandardAero is a CFM-authorised provider of CFM56-7B MRO services, operating from two full-service overhaul centres located in Winnipeg and at DFW-Fort Worth International Airport in the United States.
In addition to MRO, StandardAero offers a broad suite of services for the CFM56 engine family, including component repair via its Component Repair Services division, asset management through PTS Aviation and engine health monitoring data analysis.
This agreement marks the first time a Chinese customer has introduced CFM56-7B engine maintenance services through StandardAero. The move is expected to boost Air Central’s operational efficiency and fleet safety. Yi Yunyuan, Chief Engineer at China Central Longhao Airlines, expressed confidence that the partnership will support the airline’s long-term growth.
From StandardAero’s perspective, this deal strengthens its foothold in the Chinese aviation market, where over 2,600 CFM56-7B engines are currently in operation. The company has a long-standing history of supporting Chinese operators and now also services newer engine types such as the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B following CAAC maintenance approval.
Based in Zhengzhou City, Henan Province, China Central Longhao Airlines operates a range of cargo aircraft including the Boeing 737, Boeing 747, and COMAC C909, serving routes across China and internationally. The airline, founded in 2017, is a subsidiary of the Henan Civil Aviation Development & Investment Group.
