AAR and AFI KLM E&M to establish joint venture in APAC region

AAR and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) have signed an agreement to establish a joint venture in the Asia-Pacific region to support nacelles for next-generation aircraft.

Based at AAR’s facility in Chonburi, Thailand, the new joint venture will carry out next-generation nacelle maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, including on-wing and on-site inspections, while ensuring extensive parts availability for their valued customers.

Together, AAR and AFI KLM E&M are committed to meeting the evolving needs of the aviation industry and upholding their strong reputations for excellence in MRO services. The combination of an independent MRO with a global airline and MRO provider will deliver unparalleled service and support for operators.

The establishment of the joint venture is subject to regulatory approval and will further strengthen the global network for nacelle services.

“This partnership with AAR strengthens both our positions in the Asia-Pacific region. Our expertise, local proximity, and sustainable supply chain will ensure superior MRO services with enhanced efficiency, reliability, and part availability,” said Benjamin Moreau, AFI KLM E&M’s Senior Vice President of Strategy & Business Development.

“By combining the experiences and innovative approaches of AAR and AFI KLM E&M, we are able to expand our nacelle capabilities portfolio and support an extensive network of operators,” said Jim Berberet, AAR’s Senior Vice President of Component Services. “Our joint venture will be positioned with strong capability to meet the needs of the largest fleets in the APAC region, and we plan to continue to cover additional engine nacelle types in the future.”