Aviation MRO
Aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) encompasses the inspections, repairs, modifications, and overhauls required to keep aircraft airworthy. The global aviation MRO market reached over $114 billion in 2024, surpassing pre-COVID levels, and exceeded $136 billion in 2025 — driven by an MRO "super cycle" of aging fleets, delivery shortfalls, and increased utilization.[^c1][^c2][^c3] By the end of the decade, spending is expected to approach $193 billion.[^c7] China's MRO sector is expanding rapidly, with domestic providers securing certifications for next-generation engines and major contracts for airframe and component services.[^c9] See [[markets/market-overview.md]] for detailed market breakdown.
The sector is governed by a complex regulatory framework. In Europe, [[EASA Part 145]] establishes certification requirements for maintenance organizations and, since 2022, has mandated [[Safety Management Systems]] (SMS).[^c4] In the United States, [[FAA Part 145]] regulates repair stations, with SMS requirements expanding to U.S. stations holding EASA approvals.[^c5] Emerging requirements such as EASA Part-IS will integrate information security management with existing safety and quality frameworks.
The MRO industry is contending with a severe [[Technician Shortage]], with projections indicating a need for 710,000 new technicians over the next 20 years.[^c6][^c8] The workforce is aging rapidly: 35% of commercial MRO workers are between 55 and 60, while under-30s represent a single-digit percentage of the workforce. Labor rate inflation has settled at 5.5–6.0%, well above pre-pandemic averages. Material shortages and engine turnaround times exceeding 180 days for narrowbody engines are among the top operational disruptors.
Technology adoption is accelerating across the sector. [[AI in MRO]] applications span inspection tools, generative AI assistants, predictive analytics, and parts traceability systems. [[Digital Twins]] enable real-time health monitoring and failure prediction, while [[Robotics and Automation]] are advancing toward the "smart hangar" concept. [[Additive Manufacturing]] has achieved certified production of metal aircraft components under EASA Part-21/G approval. AI adoption among MRO organizations grew to 64% in 2025, and a majority of early adopters report that their value expectations are being met or exceeded.
Sustainability is an increasing priority, with [[Aircraft End-of-Life and Sustainability]] practices including parts reclamation, used serviceable material (USM) programs, and AFRA-certified recycling reducing the industry's environmental footprint.