Ken Okeke
Aero Contractors, Nigeria’s oldest aviation company, made a strong statement at the just-concluded Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition in Kigali, Rwanda, by showcasing its upgraded and expanding Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities.
The summit, which drew industry leaders, airlines, regulators, and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from across the continent, provided a platform for Aero to demonstrate how its MRO division is positioning itself as a trusted partner for airlines seeking efficient, reliable, and Africa-based maintenance solutions.
According to Engr. James Ominyi, Head of the Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) Division at Aero Contractors, the exhibition generated strong interest from both regional and international operators. “Our improved capabilities and ongoing upgrades are attracting significant attention from airlines looking to reduce costs and turnaround times by carrying out their heavy maintenance checks within Africa,” Ominyi said.
The Aero Contractors delegation was led by senior management, including the Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Charles Grant; Head AMO, Engr. James Ominyi; Technical Director, Engr. Emmanuel Adeyeye; GM Rotary Wing, Engr. Garba Mouktar; and MRO Business Development Manager, Mr. Adeyemi Adewojo.
It is worthy to note that Aero’s recent achievements receive the full support of the leadership of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), who have continuously demonstrated its commitment to resolving its aviation portfolio through strategic engagement and to supporting Aero in scaling its MRO services as a continental hub.
Aero’s Lagos-based MRO is one of the most advanced facilities in West and Central Africa and with capabilities covering:
* Line and Base Maintenance for Boeing 737 Classic and NGs, as well as regional jets and turboprops.
* Helicopter Maintenance for both scheduled and unscheduled checks, including the AW139 and other rotary platforms.
* Robust Workshops – including wheels and brakes, batteries, upholstery, structural repairs, and avionics, currently being upgraded in line with international standards and preparation for EASA certification.
The facility is certified by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and further endorsed by several international regulators, including the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Mongolian Civil Aviation Authority, and Senegalese Civil Aviation Authority, among others. These approvals underscore Aero’s compliance with global aviation standards and its credibility with both African and non-African operators.
Aero MRO has delivered services to both domestic and regional airlines. Its base maintenance clients include PassionAir of Ghana, Transair of Senegal, and many Nigerian carriers, alongside line maintenance support for Royal Air Maroc. Its rotary-wing MRO has also supported offshore oil and gas operators, underscoring Aero’s versatility and technical expertise.
“With over six decades of aviation heritage, Aero is building on its legacy to serve the next generation of African operators,” said Charles Grant, Chief Financial Officer of Aero Contractors, adding that “Our upgraded MRO is a clear signal that Africa has the expertise and infrastructure to sustain its aviation industry locally, while saving costs, creating jobs, and retaining value on the continent.”