Pratt & Whitney Expands GTF MRO Network with Sanad Group in UAE

Expanded Network for GTF Engine Maintenance

Pratt & Whitney, a prominent division of RTX, has made significant strides by expanding its global network of maintenance providers for the Geared Turbofan (GTF) engine, welcoming Sanad Group into the fold. This strategic move, announced on February 18, 2025, marks a critical enhancement in Pratt & Whitney’s offerings in the South Asia, Middle East, and North Africa regions. Sanad Group is a recognized leader in aerospace engineering and leasing solutions, wholly owned by Mubadala Investment Company, a sovereign investor from Abu Dhabi.

The new facility, based in Al Ain, will be the first of its kind in the region, dedicated to servicing the PW1100G-JM and PW1500G engines that power the Airbus A320neo and A220 families. Furthermore, it will also include the PW1900G engine for the Embraer E-Jet E2 family, thereby enabling Sanad to provide comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Anticipated to be operational by 2028, this facility is expected to significantly boost the partnership between RTX and the United Arab Emirates, reinforcing the latter’s role as a pivotal aviation hub.

Marc Meredith, the vice president responsible for the aftermarket services of GTF engines, emphasized that this expansion aligns with the growing demand for GTF engines worldwide. He stated, “Sanad has been instrumental in delivering high-quality service for the V2500 engine for over a decade, and we are confident that they will uphold the same standards as part of the GTF network.” This collaboration aims to meet the expected rise in aftermarket demand as the GTF fleet continues to expand.

According to Mansoor Janahi, CEO of Sanad, the establishment of the GTF maintenance center in Abu Dhabi will significantly elevate the quality of MRO services available for state-of-the-art engines. This facility is not just about enhancing service capabilities; it is also foreseen to create specialized job opportunities that contribute to the diversification of the UAE's economy.

For nearly four decades, RTX has nurtured a solid relationship with the UAE, significantly contributing to its aerospace and defense capabilities. The establishment of Raytheon Emirates in 2017 further manifested this commitment, aiming to enhance the local industrial landscape and economic diversity. The integration of Sanad into the Pratt & Whitney GTF MRO network is a testament to RTX's dedication to the UAE’s sustainable economic growth.

The Pratt & Whitney GTF MRO network currently comprises 20 service shops spread across four continents. This network forms an integral part of Pratt & Whitney EngineWise® solutions, which are tailored to deliver comprehensive aftermarket services to enhance long-term value for operators. For further details about these solutions, you can visit prattwhitney.com/enginewise.

About Pratt & Whitney

Pratt & Whitney stands at the forefront of designing, manufacturing, and servicing aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. To explore more about their offerings, you can check their website at www.prattwhitney.com.

About RTX

RTX emerges as a global leader in aerospace and defense, boasting a workforce of over 185,000 across the globe. The company stands determined to push the envelope of technology and science, redefining the ways we connect and safeguard our world. With projected sales exceeding $80 billion in 2024, RTX continues to excel through its key operations in integrated defense systems development and next-generation technology solutions. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, RTS is dedicated to addressing the world’s most pressing challenges in the aviation and defense sectors.