Malaysia's Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), a company offering aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, is experiencing a surge in business due to a global shortage of new airplanes. This shortage, attributed to supply chain disruptions and rising labor costs, is forcing airlines to extend the lifespan of their existing fleets, leading to a significant increase in demand for MRO services.
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Mahesh Kumar, CEO of ADE, predicts a prosperous future for the MRO industry in the next six years. He highlights the significant decline in new aircraft deliveries, prompting airlines to prioritize keeping their current planes operational through MRO services. This trend benefits companies like ADE, which have witnessed a substantial rise in business.
Established in September 2020 at the height of the pandemic, ADE has seen remarkable growth. They perform both line maintenance, which addresses minor issues, and comprehensive base maintenance checks for thorough inspections. Notably, the company doubled its annual revenue in 2023 to a staggering 574 million ringgit (US$122.91 million) as air travel significantly rebounded.
ADE's success is further emphasized by its fully booked schedule until the end of 2025. This high demand has led to the expansion of their facilities. Their new 14-line maintenance hangar, situated near Kuala Lumpur International Airport, is poised to become Malaysia's largest upon its opening in August 2024. The boom in ADE's business reflects a broader trend within the Malaysian aviation sector. The country's strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it a prime hub for MRO services, potentially attracting airlines from neighboring regions seeking to capitalize on the current shortage of new aircraft. This presents a significant opportunity for Malaysia to solidify its position as a leader in the global MRO industry.