Expands Heavy Mx Capacity As Largest MRO In North America

AAR Corp. announced the acquisition of HAECO Americas from HAECO Group to expand its heavy maintenance capacity and bolster its position as the largest independent aircraft MRO operation in North America. The deal includes the HAECO Group’s two large heavy maintenance facilities in Greensboro, North Carolina, and Lake City, Florida.

Together, the two locations provide airframe maintenance and modifications for major commercial airlines, employing a total of over 1,600 people. The acquisition aligns with AAR’s stated plans to expand operations to meet the growing demand from airline customers. The facilities add significant hangar capacity and technical expertise to AAR’s network.

AAR said it paid $78 million for the operations and had already sealed agreements with airline customers worth more than $850 million.

John Holmes, Chairman, President, and CEO of AAR said those agreements “effectively sell out the two HAECO Americas facilities.”

He went on to say, “AAR has become the most sought-after heavy maintenance provider in North America, and we are excited to extend our leadership position with the acquisition of HAECO Americas. Over the last few years, we have significantly invested in training, lean initiatives, and proprietary technology to enhance quality and efficiency in our MRO operations. These efforts have resulted in reduced turn-around times for our customers, higher employee retention, and meaningful increases to operating margins.”

Holmes also mentioned that AAR intends to “apply our successful model to the HAECO Americas facilities and significantly improve profitability and operational performance.”

The takeover happens during a continuing shortage of heavy maintenance capacity across the aviation industry, with airlines challenged by a dearth of available MRO slots. Those include AAR, who said its existing facilities in Miami, Oklahoma City, and Indianapolis are operating at near-capacity and most heavy maintenance slots are sold out years in advance.

FMI:  www.aarcorp.com/