Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, and Etihad Engineering have entered into a joint venture to establish a dedicated maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility for nacelles and thrust reversers in Abu Dhabi, strengthening aviation support capabilities for airlines operating across the Middle East and international markets. Announced during the Farnborough International Airshow, the partnership will provide comprehensive nacelle and thrust reverser maintenance services, along with asset support solutions, for Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft fleets. The new venture is designed to address the growing demand for specialised MRO services as the region continues to expand its commercial aviation sector.
As part of the agreement, Collins Aerospace will relocate its existing UAE nacelle operations to Etihad Engineering’s 550,000-square-metre aviation maintenance campus located adjacent to Zayed International Airport. The new 3,250-square-metre facility is expected to commence operations in the first quarter of 2027 and will double Collins Aerospace’s nacelle MRO capacity in the Middle East.
The collaboration combines Collins Aerospace’s global expertise in aerostructures and aftermarket services with Etihad Engineering’s extensive aircraft maintenance capabilities, creating an integrated service offering that will enhance turnaround times, improve operational efficiency, and deliver high-quality maintenance support for airline customers.
PJ Titone, Vice President and General Manager, Aerostructures, Collins Aerospace, said, “Establishing our operations alongside Etihad Engineering’s expanding maintenance facility enables us to better serve customers in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. This joint venture strengthens our global MRO network while supporting airlines with faster, more efficient nacelle maintenance services.”
Mahmood Al Hameli, Group Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA), said the partnership aligns with the group’s long-term strategy of expanding technical capabilities and strengthening local expertise. He noted that the new facility will broaden the company’s service portfolio while improving responsiveness to customer requirements across the region.
Daniel Hoffmann, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Engineering, said the venture enhances the company’s position as a comprehensive MRO solutions provider. He added that the introduction of specialised nacelle and thrust reverser maintenance services complements Etihad Engineering’s existing portfolio and offers customers worldwide access to a broader range of aircraft engineering solutions from a single location.
Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, is a leading designer, manufacturer and service provider of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units for commercial, military and general aviation customers. Since its founding in 1925, the company has been at the forefront of aircraft propulsion technology, delivering advanced engine solutions that power fleets around the world. Pratt & Whitney supports more than 90,000 engines in service through a global network of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities, helping customers improve performance, reliability and operational efficiency.
RTX is a global aerospace and defence company that develops advanced technologies for aviation, defence and security. With a workforce of more than 180,000 employees worldwide, the company delivers innovative solutions that strengthen global connectivity, enhance national security and support critical missions. Its broad portfolio includes commercial and military aircraft systems, integrated defence technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, RTX reported sales of more than $88 billion in 2025.
