Airbus has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thai Airways International to evaluate the development of a major new maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility at U-Tapao International Airport, near Bangkok. The facility is designed to help meet strong demand for maintenance services in the region.

The MoU was signed in Bangkok by Usanee Sangsingkeo, Acting President, Thai Airways International (photo, centre) and Fabrice Brégier, President, Airbus Commercial Aircraft (right). The signing was witnessed by Somkid Jatusripitak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand (left).

The partners say the new MRO centre would be one of the most modern and extensive in the Asia-Pacific region, offering line and heavy maintenance services for a wide range of aircraft types. A new complex would feature the latest digital technologies to analyse aircraft maintenance data, as well as advanced inspection techniques, including the use of drones to monitor aircraft airframes. 

The MRO campus would also include specialised repair shops, including a repair centre for composite structures, as well as a maintenance training centre offering extensive courses for technical personnel  from Thailand and overseas.

The joint initiative is described as a strategic contribution to the Eastern Economic Corridor designed by the Thai Government, in which U-Tapao International Airport is set to become a new aerospace hub in the region.

The new venture follows the incorporation of another MRO JV involving Airbus and an Asian partner — Heavy Maintenance Singapore Services Pte Ltd (HMS Services) — in October 2016. HMS Services is a joint venture between Airbus (35%) and SIA Engineering Company (65%). The JV offers airframe maintenance, cabin upgrade and modification services for Airbus A380, A350 and A330 aircraft to airlines in the Asia-Pacific region.