Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, inaugurated the largest edition of MRO Middle East and Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) 2025. This event, which is the biggest of its kind in the region, spans two days and unites leaders from the global aviation supply chain.
According to Emirates News Agency, the aviation sector is witnessing significant growth, with passenger demand at an unprecedented level. This has led to a renewed emphasis on aircraft modernization and comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. The event attracted more than 250 international exhibitors, aiming to collaborate and strategize to shape the future of the MRO and aircraft interiors industries.
Key announcements on the first day included GE Aerospace’s US$10 million investment in its Middle Eastern MRO facilities and FL Technics’ expansion plans with a new Line Maintenance Station at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC). Airbus introduced its Middle East Services Forecast for 2024-2043, highlighting a shift towards more digital and connected operations in commercial aviation services, with global services demand projected to reach US$32 billion by 2043.
Throughout the event, the Go Live! Theater hosted sessions on crucial industry themes. A notable session was the AIME ‘CEO Unplugged’ interview with Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, who discussed the airline’s expansion initiatives and strategies for addressing supply chain challenges. He emphasized the increasing domestic market growth in Saudi Arabia and the role of AI in enhancing efficiency.
Another panel discussion on ‘MRO Capacity Challenges in the Middle East’ featured industry leaders, including Ziad Al Hazmi of Lufthansa Technik Middle East and Daniel Hoffmann of Etihad Engineering. Hoffmann noted that the Middle East is strategically positioned to expand its role in the global MRO landscape due to its geographic connectivity and ongoing investments in new facilities.