Barnes completes MB Aerospace acquisition

Barnes Group Inc. completed its previously announced acquisition of MB Aerospace, a provider of precision aero-engine component manufacturing and repair services serving major aerospace and defense engine original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Tier 1 suppliers, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers. Purchase price was $740 million.

Ian Reason, senior vice president, Barnes and president, Barnes Aerospace, says, “The significant growth opportunities provided by this combination will enhance our ability to deliver value-add solutions across the aero-engine value chain. MB Aerospace brings welcomed customer diversification within commercial aerospace and defense platforms and provides Barnes with a well-balanced portfolio across aerospace and industrial end markets.” https://barnesaero.com; https://www.mbaerospace.com

Air France-KLM, Airbus explore component support joint venture

Airbus and Air France-KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) are negotiating to establish a 50-50 joint venture for global Airbus A350 component maintenance services, including supply chain management, repairs, and creation of a worldwide pool of aircraft components. The envisaged cooperation would transfer aircraft components belonging to both partners into the joint venture’s pool.

Cristina Aguilar, senior vice president customer services at Airbus, notes, “Air France-KLM Engineering & Maintenance and Airbus have a long-standing relationship and pooling our complementary A350 component skills and capabilities will deliver an enhanced service.”

Anne Brachet, executive vice president AFI KLM E&M, says, “This project aims to bring customers the best expertise of our two companies on a product as high-tech as the A350.”

The joint venture would help meet the growing long-term maintenance needs of the Airbus A350 worldwide fleet (more than 1,000 aircraft on order and 550 currently in service) through enhanced capacity, an expanded global footprint, and development of innovative solutions.

AFI KLM E&M supports almost 3,000 aircraft operated by 200 major international and domestic airlines and has been providing Airbus A350 support to its customers since 2016.

The goal is for the joint venture to be operational by H1 2024, subject to authorities’ approval. https://www.afiklmem.com; https://www.airbus.com