Vallair, an aircraft MRO specialist, has completed the update and build of its fully integrated aerostructure repair, and engine teardown and component repair facility in Châteauroux, France.
Streamlining these capabilities not only saves time but also offers airlines and lessors a highly cost-effective way to sustain the lifecycle of large components that might otherwise be scrapped due to the associated transport costs with shipping for repair.
Vallair is currently seeing an increase in repairs for nacelles and flight control parts with customers choosing to work with their reactive team.
François Biarneix, Operations Director in Châteauroux, said: “We have a short decision-making circuit at Vallair and a highly experienced technical team. Many customers come for specific aerostructure expertise, but we also encompass a lot of ad hoc work for those with aircraft undergoing C-check maintenance.
“Using our integrated services reduces TATs considerably. If a part such as a fan cowl needs to be repaired, we can provide an immediate quote and start processing the repair without delay.
“The global aerostructure repair services market is influenced by several factors, including the growth of the aviation sector and the increasing age of commercial aircraft fleets. Outsourcing aerostructure repairs can offer customers cost savings via access to specialised expertise.
“We are shaping our facility and our development programme to meet the challenges of the skills shortage coupled with the need for rapid turnaround times, and the complexities involved in repairing newer composite materials. To support this, we have our own Part 147 EASA approved training centre, Aircraft Academy, on-site in Châteauroux.
“This is focused on the next generation of technicians and engineers and delivers theoretical and practical courses across a broad range of Airbus and Boeing narrow and wide body aircraft and aligned engine types.”
The aerostructure repair services industry plays a pivotal role in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and readiness of the global aviation fleet. The MRO activities being undertaken at Vallair’s facility include structure inspection and repair, composites inspection and repair, and painting for nacelles, flight controls and cabin parts.
Looking ahead, Vallair is poised for further growth: the adoption of digital technologies for training and repair guidance will prepare their skilled technicians for new developments in the field of sustainable repair materials and further process advancements.
Biarneix added: “We are in the fortunate position of being able to offer a range of integrated services that are complementary to the teardown process on-site. These include cleaning, inspection, analysis, photography, packing and storage of all the dismantled parts. This saves our customers time and is very efficient.
“Engine teardown facilities are an integral part of the aviation industry’s ecosystem, providing a critical service in the management of aircraft engine lifecycles.
“Vallair is accredited by AFRA, the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association, this ensures that quality standards are maintained through the entire process. As the international aerospace community continues to focus on environmental issues, asset owners are looking for efficient, revenue-building and environmentally-sound methods for aircraft disposal.
“From parts distribution, to dismantling, through to materials recycling, Vallair is working on new strategies for management of end-of-life aircraft. With up to 15,000 aircraft due to retire in the next two decades, aircraft recycling offers a broad range of opportunities and Vallair aims to be at the forefront of this sector.”
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