Safran Aircraft Engines announces acquisition of CRT Component Repair Technologies to enhance global MRO network

Safran Aircraft Engines, a prominent leader in aerospace propulsion and equipment, has announced its intention to acquire Component Repair Technologies (CRT), a highly regarded American company specializing in the repair of aircraft engine components. Headquartered in Mentor, Ohio, CRT is a trailblazer in the maintenance of large engine parts, including cases and rotating components for CFM56, LEAP, and large turbofan engines.

This acquisition is a pivotal move for Safran Aircraft Engines as it aims to bolster its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities across the Americas, one of the most dynamic regions in the global aerospace market. With a workforce of over 450 skilled employees, CRT brings extensive expertise and a proven track record in servicing major engine components, positioning Safran to enhance its support services for the expanding fleet of LEAP-powered aircraft.

Strategic Enhancement of Global MRO Capabilities

Jean-Paul Alary, CEO of Safran Aircraft Engines, articulated the strategic significance of this acquisition, stating, “This contemplated acquisition clearly reflects our plans to ramp up our global MRO network, and we are delighted to be able to rely on the proven expertise of CRT. Our strategy includes major investments at all our current facilities, plus the construction of new facilities. With this ambitious ramp-up, Safran Aircraft Engines will proactively support the rapidly growing global fleet of LEAP-powered airplanes.”

The integration of CRT into Safran’s operations will augment the company’s existing network of MRO facilities, which already includes sites in Châtellerault, France; the Ceramic Coating Center in France; Airfoils Advanced Solutions in France; PTI in Florida, United States; and Safran Aircraft Engine Services Americas in Querétaro, Mexico. CRT’s new role will involve performing repair activities under CFM Services agreements and extending its services to other OEMs and third-party companies within the MRO market.

Boosting LEAP Engine Support and Sustainability

This acquisition aligns with Safran Aircraft Engines’ recent expansion plans, including the construction of a new maintenance facility dedicated to LEAP engines in Querétaro, Mexico. By incorporating CRT’s capabilities, Safran aims to streamline its industrial organization, addressing the burgeoning demand for LEAP support services while making strides towards reducing its carbon footprint.

The LEAP engine, a cornerstone of Safran Aircraft Engines’ product line, has achieved significant milestones, with more than 7,500 units delivered and accumulating over 50 million flight hours. The engine’s success is underscored by the 10,600 additional units currently on order. Known for its fuel efficiency, the LEAP engine reduces CO2 emissions by 15% to 20% compared to previous-generation engines and offers a substantial reduction in noise levels, making it a preferred choice for nearly 170 operators worldwide.

CRT’s Innovative Contribution to MRO Services

Nicolas Potier, Vice President of Support, Services & MRO at Safran Aircraft Engines, emphasized CRT’s longstanding partnership with Safran and its role in advancing repair technologies. He remarked, “As a long-standing partner to Safran Aircraft Engines, CRT has proven its ability to develop innovative new repair processes. Adding their capabilities to our network provides a major asset to support our customers’ operations worldwide. It also reflects our industrial strategy of providing a world-class MRO source on each continent.”

Regulatory Approval and Future Outlook

The successful completion of this acquisition is contingent upon obtaining the requisite regulatory approvals. Safran Aircraft Engines anticipates concluding the transaction by the end of 2024, which will mark a significant milestone in its efforts to enhance global MRO capabilities and support its expanding portfolio of LEAP engines.

The acquisition of CRT by Safran Aircraft Engines is expected to not only fortify the company’s position in the competitive aerospace market but also contribute to its overarching goal of delivering exceptional MRO services while embracing sustainability and innovation.