Hong Kong-based engineering and maintenance provider HAECO and Chinese cargo airline Central Airlines have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a strategic maintenance partnership covering Central Airlines' Boeing 777 freighter fleet, according to Aviation Business, with the agreement signed at the inaugural Aviation Week MRO Greater China event in Beijing.

The MoU outlines cooperation across three key areas: GE90 engine services, airframe maintenance and component support. Subject to compliance with applicable laws and regulations, both parties will explore cooperation across airframe maintenance, line maintenance, engine overhaul, on-wing support, landing gear maintenance and component repair by leveraging HAECO's maintenance network and technical resources.

In engine services, HAECO will draw on its existing GE90 capabilities to provide repair, overhaul, on-wing support and spare engine services. Airframe maintenance will be delivered across HAECO's facilities in Hong Kong and Xiamen, supplemented by line maintenance support across the Greater China region. Component maintenance cooperation will extend to landing gear, composite materials and component repair.

HAECO chief commercial officer Gerald Steinhoff said: "By combining HAECO's comprehensive MRO capabilities with Central Airlines' operational ambitions, we look forward to delivering reliable, high-quality support for its Boeing 777 freighter fleet and creating a strong platform for future collaboration."

Central Airlines vice president of maintenance and engineering Liu Qiang said the partnership framework aims to "further enhance the quality and reliability of our operations and create more value for our customers and partners."

Hainan-based Central Airlines is pursuing continued fleet expansion, with the MoU designed to strengthen operational reliability and long-term maintenance planning as freighter demand across Greater China continues to grow.

Explore the full scope of HAECO and Central Airlines' maintenance partnership.