Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) division of Capital A (formerly AirAsia Group), has officially unveiled its latest 14-line MRO hangar, marking a significant achievement as Malaysia’s largest and most sophisticated MRO facility. This facility is set to transform the MRO landscape, providing innovative, efficient, and cost-effective solutions while enhancing service quality for AirAsia and other airlines.
Spanning over 380,000 square feet and situated on a 20.25-acre site within the KLIA Aeronautical Support Zone 1 (ASZ 1) as part of Malaysia Airports’ KLIA Aeropolis development, the state-of-the-art hangar boasts specialized workshops, including a Composite Workshop, Sheet Metal & Machine Workshop, Upholstery Workshop, Cabin Interior Repair Workshop, Oven & Boiler Workshop, and a 3D Printing Lab dedicated to aircraft livery. Additionally, it features a Digital Product Development Centre, solidifying ADE’s position as one of the region’s most comprehensive MRO providers. With over 20 years of engineering experience servicing AirAsia, ADE aims to extend its expertise to attract more third-party airlines. Its service offerings include component support, line maintenance, and base maintenance for various aircraft models, including the Airbus A320 and A330 families and the Boeing 737 family, with plans to expand services to other aircraft types.
To capitalize on its growth trajectory, ADE is currently conducting soil testing on a five-acre plot adjacent to the new MRO hangar, with intentions to establish an additional four-line facility to meet increasing demand. Furthermore, ADE is in negotiation with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, the country’s airport management company to acquire an extra 20 acres in the KLIA area to develop a premier MRO center. Recently, ADE received EASA’s Part 145 Maintenance Organisation approval and Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO) approvals in seven additional countries, positioning itself for further regional expansion. In 2023, ADE secured a USD 100 million investment from OCP Asia Ltd., providing a substantial boost for its next phase of growth.
(Sources: Air Asia; Aviation Week)