Captain Sanusi disclosed that the MRO is currently working on several aircraft types, including Boeing 737 NGs, Airbus A320s, CRJs, and Embraer 145s.
BY ANTHONY OMOH
Aero Contractors CEO, Captain Ado Sanusi, has unveiled the company’s ambitious plan to transform its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility into a one-stop maintenance hub for Western and Central Africa, while also enhancing its Heavy Maintenance Visits (HMV) capability.
The MRO is currently undergoing renovation and hangar expansion, which is expected to be completed within 90 days. Additionally, the company is gradually retooling to enhance its maintenance capabilities.
Speaking on the scope of maintenance, Captain Sanusi disclosed that the MRO is currently working on several aircraft types, including Boeing 737 NGs, Airbus A320s, CRJs, and Embraer 145s. The company is investing heavily in infrastructure improvements, such as raising the hangar roof, redoing the flooring, enhancing electrical systems, and upgrading lighting.
“We are also acquiring new tools and upgrading the hangar to the next level. Our workshop has been modernized and is undergoing expansion to cater to both older and new-generation aircraft,” Sanusi stated.
Furthermore, Aero Contractors has secured line maintenance contracts with operators of Boeing 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliners. The MRO aims to support customers flying these advanced aircraft.
Sanusi noted that the renovation and expansion would be completed within the next 90 days. “We are building the capability for the CRJ and intend to handle engine maintenance, auxiliary power unit (APU) overhauls, landing gear repairs, and component servicing. We can perform up to D-checks on Boeing 737 Classics and Dash 8 aircraft,” he explained.
Aero Contractors’ goal is to establish itself as a comprehensive maintenance provider in the region. “Our objective is to be a one-stop maintenance hub in Western and Central Africa, and we are making steady progress toward that vision,” Sanusi concluded.
Sanusi further clarified the clear distinction between scheduled checks and Heavy Maintenance Visits (HMV), explaining, “Scheduled checks are categorized into A, B, C, and D checks. The A and B checks are typically line maintenance tasks performed at regular intervals based on flight hours or calendar time. The B check, although part of line maintenance, can sometimes be conducted at a base facility.
“The C check, performed at a base maintenance facility, is more extensive and involves thorough inspections and system checks. It is divided into subcategories such as C1, C2, up to C6, culminating in the D check, which is the most comprehensive and invasive inspection. These checks are both hours and calendar-driven, ensuring the aircraft remains airworthy and compliant with regulatory requirements.”
He added, “On the other hand, Heavy Maintenance Visit (HMV) operates under the Maintenance Steering Group (MSG) program. Unlike traditional checks that are calendar-driven, HMV focuses on component reliability and performance. This approach is based on real-time data and the operational history of aircraft components. By assessing the hours each component has logged, maintenance actions are scheduled based on actual wear and performance rather than fixed calendar timelines.”
Sanusi concluded, “The HMV methodology is particularly applicable to newer generation aircraft, where manufacturers have gained confidence in the reliability of the components over time. This approach allows for more efficient maintenance planning, reduces unnecessary downtime, and enhances the overall safety and longevity of the aircraft.”
