Aero Contractors Expands Facility, Aims For One-Stop MRO

Aero Contractors Airline has begun expanding its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility with the goal of establishing a one-stop maintenance hub for Western and Central Africa while boosting its heavy maintenance capabilities.

Managing Director Capt. Ado Sanusi disclosed this after signing an agreement with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau for industry-led safety training, knowledge exchange, and human capital development to enhance aviation safety.

Sanusi stated that the MRO is currently undergoing renovation and hangar expansion, expected to be completed within 90 days. He also noted that the company is gradually upgrading its tools to strengthen its maintenance capabilities.

Discussing the scope of maintenance, Sanusi revealed that the MRO currently services various aircraft types, including Boeing 737 NGs, Airbus A320s, CRJs, and Embraer 145s.

He highlighted the company’s significant investments in infrastructure upgrades, such as raising the hangar roof, refurbishing the flooring, improving electrical systems, and upgrading lighting.

“We are also acquiring new tools and enhancing the hangar to the next level. Our workshop has been modernized and is being expanded to accommodate both older and new-generation aircraft,” Sanusi stated.

Aero Contractors announced that it has secured line maintenance contracts with operators of Boeing 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliners, as its MRO aims to support customers flying these advanced aircraft.

“We are building capability for the CRJ and plan to handle engine maintenance, auxiliary power unit overhauls, landing gear repairs, and component servicing. We can perform up to D-checks on Boeing 737 Classics and Dash 8 aircraft. Our goal is to become a one-stop maintenance hub in Western and Central Africa, and we are making steady progress toward that vision,” Sanusi stated.

He also explained the difference between scheduled checks and heavy maintenance visits, noting, “Scheduled checks are classified into A, B, C, and D checks. A and B checks are routine line maintenance tasks performed at specific intervals based on flight hours or calendar time. While B checks fall under line maintenance, they can sometimes be conducted at a base facility.