Emirates has engaged GE Aerospace to enhance its piece part repair capabilities within its engine maintenance operations. This collaboration builds on a long-standing partnership between the Dubai-based airline and GE, centered on servicing engines that power its Boeing 777 fleet, including GE90 and GE9X models.
Emirates operates an Engine Maintenance Centre that handles module replacement, quick engine change (QEC) and de-QEC processes, modifications, and minor repairs for its fleet of over 300 engines. The facility, incorporating the Emirates Engineering Power Plant, supports these activities for various engine types.
GE Aerospace maintains On Wing Support Centers in Dubai and Doha, where engineers and technicians perform flight-line repairs, quick-turn in-shop services, and training for regional MRO teams. Recent investments include a portion of GE’s $60 million allocation for expanding MRO operations in the Middle East, focusing on Dubai and Doha to shorten turnaround times.
Past agreements include a 2003 deal for GE to design and construct a jet engine test facility in Dubai, completed around 2006, and subsequent contracts for engine overhauls, such as a $16 billion services deal covering GE90 and GP7000 engines. Emirates has also extended TrueChoice Flight Hour agreements for 54 GE90-115B engines and ordered 130 additional GE9X units for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, accompanied by long-term servicing.
These efforts align with GE’s broader $1 billion global MRO expansion over five years, targeting increased capacity for engines like the CFM LEAP, though Emirates’ focus remains on widebody powerplants.