Nigerian carrier, Aero Contractors, has embarked on a transformative journey to establish African self-reliance in aircraft maintenance through significant upgrades to its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.
Investing in the upgrade and expansion of the company’s MRO capabilities is considered by industry stakeholders as a strategic initiative that marks a pivotal shift from Africa’s historical dependence on foreign maintenance facilities, which has long burdened African airlines with substantial costs, extended turnaround times, and significant foreign exchange expenditures. By developing world-class MRO capabilities within the continent, Aero Contractors is positioning itself as a catalyst for aviation industry transformation across West and Central Africa, with the goal of retaining technical expertise, creating employment opportunities, and keeping aviation expenditure within Africa’s economic ecosystem
The airline, which is Nigeria’s oldest aviation company, showcased its upgraded and expanding MRO capabilities at the recent Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition held in Kigali, Rwanda.
At this gathering of industry leaders, airlines, regulators, and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Aero Contractors demonstrated 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 Organisation (AMO) Division at Aero Contractors, the exhibition generated strong interest from both regional and international operators who are increasingly looking to reduce costs and turnaround times by performing heavy maintenance checks within Africa.
“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.
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Aero Contractors’ delegation to the event 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.
In a statement, the company said the recent upgrade received the full support of the leadership of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), which has continuously demonstrated its commitment to resolving aviation portfolio challenges through strategic engagement and scaling Aero’s 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;
Workshops on wheels and brakes, batteries, upholstery, structural repairs, and avionics – currently undergoing upgrade in line with international standards and preparation for EASA certification.
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The company said the facility is certified by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and also 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,” the airline stated.
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.
Economic Impact
Experts believe that the development of local MRO capabilities represents a crucial strategic advantage for African aviation by enabling cost reduction, job creation, and value retention within the continent.
Historically, African airlines have spent heavily on flying aircraft abroad for major checks, which drove up expenses and prolonged downtimes while resulting in significant foreign exchange outflows. Industry estimates suggest that Africa’s MRO market is valued at over $1.6 billion in 2025, with expectations to reach $2 billion by 2030. By providing these services locally, Aero Contractors helps retain a substantial portion of this expenditure within Africa, contributing to economic development and technological capacity building.
Chief Financial Officer of Aero Contractors, Charles Grant, said the company, which has been in the aviation space for over six decades, is building on its legacy to serve the next generation of African operators.
“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.”
Grant added.
This economic benefit extends beyond direct maintenance activities to include skills development, technology transfer, and the creation of ancillary industries that support aviation maintenance operations.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in mass communication.
