DTX Group has officially launched, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the global aerospace sector. This development coincides with Hussein Lookmanjee's complete divestment from Drayton Aerospace, with his remaining equity acquired by Lion Capital. The move allows Lookmanjee to dedicate his full attention and resources to the international growth and strategic leadership of DTX Group.
In 2019, Drayton Aerospace pursued a dual-track strategy: a regionally focused business driven by local leadership, and an international arm led by Lookmanjee. With a reputation for building greenfield operations, Lookmanjee was tasked with spearheading the international division. Meanwhile, Drayton Aerospace localised its China operations by appointing Hong Qi Ye as China President in 2020 and Steven Young as CEO in 2021.
Following a strategic realignment, Lion Capital has now assumed controlling interest in Drayton Aerospace's China-based operations, alongside eight Chinese partners. In contrast, all non-China entities—such as the Brazil-based MRO businesses and global support units—have been integrated into the newly launched DTX Group, which remains solely owned by Lookmanjee. This restructure reflects diverging priorities between the China-centric shareholders and the globally focused DTX team.
Over the past six years, Lookmanjee and his senior leadership team have built a robust international platform, establishing new maintenance facilities, expanding into parts distribution, and entering key regions including South America and the Middle East. Under his leadership, Drayton Aerospace became a recognised independent player in civil and freight aviation MRO markets.
“Now is the right time for this transition,” said Lookmanjee. “DTX Group has evolved into a globally competitive business that merits dedicated focus. This move enables us to pursue our original international vision with greater clarity and autonomy. We plan to fully invest the proceeds from the Drayton divestment into strategic growth opportunities, including three exciting acquisitions slated for completion before year's end.”
Despite temporary delays during the COVID-19 pandemic, DTX Group's international strategy has regained momentum. Officially established in September 2024, the company is headquartered in the Middle East. It operates a parts trading business in the United States and two MRO facilities in Brazil, with a new Middle Eastern MRO site scheduled to open by Q3 2025. Future expansion is also planned across Africa and Europe.
DTX Group will now operate independently, with a cohesive international team poised to lead the next phase of growth. The organisation enters this new chapter with a focused strategic vision and a clear mandate for global expansion.
