Sanad Expands LEAP-1A Engine MRO Services, Solidifying its Position as a Global Aviation Leader

Sanad, the global aerospace engineering and leasing solutions leader owned by Mubadala Investment Company, has announced the launch of its fifth production line to service CFM LEAP-1A engines. This expansion enhances Sanad's maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, positioning it as the first provider of LEAP-1A engine services in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Key Milestones

First LEAP-1A MRO Facility in MENA

The announcement coincides with the one-year anniversary of the Sanad LEAP MRO Center, inaugurated in 2023 as the first certified facility of its kind in the South Asian, Middle East, and North Africa (SAMENA) region. Over its first year, the center has successfully serviced more than 25 LEAP-1B engines for prominent clients, including flydubai and Oman Air, through partnerships with Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace.

New High-Pressure Turbine (HPT) Capabilities

Sanad’s expansion is backed by investments in cutting-edge HPT technologies, enabling full piece-part disassembly for both LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines by early 2025. These advancements are expected to reduce turnaround times while maintaining exceptional service standards, ensuring operators receive unmatched technical support.

Industry Collaboration

Sanad has onboarded 20 new professionals and delivered over 1,000 hours of specialized training to its workforce, underscoring its commitment to human capital development. The company has already inducted its first LEAP-1A engine from Air Arabia, marking a significant milestone as the launch customer for these MRO services.

Strategic Leadership Statements

• Ismail Ali Abdulla, Head of UAE Clusters at Mubadala, remarked:
  “Sanad’s growth reinforces Abu Dhabi’s role as a global aviation hub, combining advanced technologies with a commitment to workforce development. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision for economic diversification and innovation.”

• Mansoor Janahi, Managing Director and Group CEO of Sanad, emphasized:
  “Expanding to include LEAP-1A capabilities demonstrates our dedication to providing comprehensive MRO solutions and strengthens our collaboration with industry leaders like GE Aerospace and Safran.”

Global Partnerships and Impact

• Nicolas Potier, Vice President of Support & Services at Safran Aircraft Engines, commended Sanad’s progress:
  “Sanad's investment in HPT overhaul capabilities is a significant milestone for the LEAP open MRO ecosystem, delivering long-term value to the industry and better serving CFM operators globally.”

• Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia, stated:
  “Sanad’s advanced MRO capabilities and cutting-edge technologies align perfectly with our commitment to operational excellence and reliability.”

A Sustainable Future

Sanad aims to overhaul more than 450 LEAP engines over the next 11 years, supporting the growing regional fleets of Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. These engines, known for fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, align with global aviation sustainability goals.

By maintaining a balanced portfolio of mature and next-generation engines, Sanad continues to lead the engine MRO sector while fostering innovation and global partnerships.