MRO Europe 2024

MRO Europe 2024 is one of the most anticipated events in the aerospace industry’s annual calendar. It’s an opportunity to highlight critical trends and focus areas amongst airlines and passengers, and it gives us a clear insight into the aviation sector across the region. 

Similarly to 2023, STG is joining the Welsh Government and Aerospace Wales Forum, for this industry exhibition, which this year is being held in Barcelona from 22 to 24 October. Attracting more than 10,000 attendees, MRO Europe features over 450 exhibitors from around the world, representing all levels of the airline supply chain.

Joining us on the Welsh Pavilion stand (#3210) is:

  • Aermach
  • MES (Metrology Engineering Services)
  • Caerdav
  • Aero Engine Services 
  • eCube
  • Cardiff Airport

Our Regional Sales Manager for Europe, Lynn Benham, will be attending and shared her insights and expectations ahead of the event. This year, the spotlight is on sustainability, retrofitting, and maintenance optimisation, all of which align with the broader changes occurring in the aviation market.

Sustainability

Sustainability has been the leading theme in the sector all year, with airlines and suppliers focusing on reducing their environmental footprint. Organisations are taking steps to reduce fuel burn, create lighter aircraft parts, and enhance systems that promise to extend product longevity. Notably, companies are demanding eco-friendly innovations, as environmental considerations become increasingly intertwined with operational efficiency.

Lynn says: 

“Our launch of saf-Tglo® eco E1™ earlier in the year was a direct response to the industry’s push towards greater environmental consciousness. I am taking samples of the product, and it will be great to showcase these at the event. I am sure I will be having conversations around how airlines can modernise their fleets to meet new sustainability targets, without compromising on performance or safety, so it’s great to show something tangible.”

Retrofitting:

A significant trend since the pandemic has been retrofitting, and the demand has not slowed down. With delays in new aircraft deliveries from Boeing and Airbus, airlines are holding onto their older fleets longer than usual. 

Lynn explains:

"Airlines are operating their aircraft for longer and to bridge the gap, they are retrofitting cabins with our LED lighting system, liTeMood®, to fulfil the demands of passengers and refresh the on-wing aesthetic. The retrofit service is seen as a solution to modernise cabin interiors and harmonise the experience across their fleets, without the need to purchase new aircraft. This also aligns with airlines' growing focus on sustainability, as they can make older aircraft more efficient through upgrades. Such as switching older fluorescent systems for LED.”

Maintenance Optimisation

 Maintenance plays a crucial role in keeping aircraft operational. With airlines extending their fleet cycles, understanding demanding maintenance schedules and having the right parts available, becomes an essential cog in the machine. Maintenance teams are more important than ever, as they are responsible for ensuring these aging fleets operate efficiently and safely.

Maintenance schedules and checks are a focus for suppliers, and maintaining stock of critical components is crucial. This is particularly important when dealing with Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations. 

Lynn concludes: 

“Beyond the technical aspects, MRO Europe is an extremely upbeat event that leaves attendees excited and inspired about the future of our industry. It will be great to see our customers and meet new faces.”

With a strong focus on sustainable innovations and extending the life of aircraft through retrofitting, MRO Europe 2024 will be an invaluable event for all attendees. We hope to gain strong market insights and plan to respond to emerging customer demands by creating solutions through innovation. 

Keep up with the event on our social media channels and visit Lynn at the Welsh Pavilion booth #3210.

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