#USA #AAR CORP #Chonburi #Air France #xCelle Asia

AAR and Air France Industries KLM Establish xCelle Asia

On December 10, 2025, AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR) and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM EM) announced the formal launch of their joint venture, xCelle Asia, which is now operational in Chonburi, Thailand. This collaboration marks a significant step in expanding their maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

Having received necessary regulatory approvals, xCelle Asia will specialize in overhauling nacelles for next-generation aircraft. This venture builds upon the successful partnership between AAR and AFI KLM EM in the Americas, aiming to deliver top-notch services to aircraft operators in the APAC markets.

Enhanced Service Offerings

xCelle Asia is licensed by multiple original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), allowing it to provide extensive nacelle maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. These services include on-wing or onsite inspections and rotatable support for various next-generation aircraft nacelles, especially those designed for modern engines such as GEnx, Trent1000, and LEAP-1A/1B types. As the venture progresses, xCelle Asia plans to expand its service capabilities to include additional aircraft and engine types, thereby cementing its position in the market.

Jim Berberet, Senior Vice President of Component Services at AAR, expressed optimism regarding this development, stating, “This joint venture significantly broadens our service offerings in the Asia-Pacific region while enhancing our commitment to deliver superior, industry-leading solutions to our clients. We are eager to replicate our success seen in the Americas by applying our experienced Component Services team in Thailand.”

Similarly, Benjamin Moreau, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at AFI KLM EM, emphasized the venture's strategic importance: “The establishment of xCelle Asia is a crucial milestone in reinforcing our global MRO network. By augmenting our nacelle services within the Asia-Pacific region, we are well-positioned to provide world-class, next-generation support to our customers. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence, as we bring our expertise to one of the most vibrant aviation markets globally.”

About xCelle Asia

xCelle Asia is a joint venture created by AAR and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance dedicated to servicing next-generation aircraft nacelles. Recognized as an FAA/EASA certified repair station, xCelle Asia combines the knowledge and capabilities of both an airline and a third-party MRO, catering to the maintenance, repair, and overhaul needs of commercial operators throughout the APAC region.

About AAR

AAR is a global leader in aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions, operating in more than 20 countries. With its headquarters in the Chicago area, AAR delivers a wide range of services to both commercial and government clients through its multiple operating segments, which include Parts Supply, Repair & Engineering, Integrated Solutions, and Expeditionary Services.

About AFI KLM EM

Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance is a prominent MRO provider that employs over 12,800 personnel. It offers comprehensive support for airlines, including engineering, line maintenance, engine overhaul, and the supply of aircraft components, organized around a robust logistics network. AFI KLM EM serves nearly 3,000 aircraft operated by 200 leading airlines worldwide.

As xCelle Asia embarks on its journey, the partnership between AAR and AFI KLM EM sets a promising precedent for the future of MRO services in the booming Asia-Pacific aviation market.