Singapore-based MRO provider SIA Engineering Company and French aero-engine manufacturer Safran Aircraft Engines have signed a joint venture agreement to establish a full-service CFM LEAP engine MRO facility in Singapore, according to Aviation Business News, expanding maintenance support capacity for the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engine programmes across the Asia-Pacific region.

The agreement marks the next stage of cooperation between the two companies following the signing of a letter of intent in November 2025. The new joint venture will build on existing LEAP quick-turn maintenance operations currently performed by SIAEC for Safran Aircraft Engines at its Aircraft Engine Services facility in Changi North, integrating those activities into a larger facility capable of handling a wider range of maintenance work and increased shop visit capacity.

Under the terms of the agreement, Safran Aircraft Engines will hold a 51% stake in the venture, with SIAEC retaining the remaining 49%. The partners have committed up to US$118 million (approximately €99 million) in total investment, subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions. SIAEC's contribution could reach US$57.8 million (approximately €48.5 million), including in-kind contributions, while Safran Aircraft Engines could contribute up to US$60.2 million (approximately €50.5 million).

Wong Yue Jeen, chief commercial officer of SIAEC, said: "The new LEAP MRO JV combines Safran Aircraft Engines' OEM expertise and SIAEC's MRO excellence, strengthening the LEAP maintenance network and enhancing SIAEC's next-generation engine capability to meet global LEAP engine maintenance demand."

Nicolas Potier, executive vice president support and services at Safran Aircraft Engines, said: "The creation of this joint company with SIA Engineering Company marks a significant step forward in strengthening our global MRO ecosystem to meet the accelerating demand for LEAP engine maintenance in Asia-Pacific."

The LEAP engine family powers the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft families, with growing fleet numbers driving demand for expanded aftermarket support capacity across the region.

The new facility is expected to strengthen Singapore's position as a key engine MRO hub in Asia-Pacific while increasing capacity within Safran's global LEAP maintenance network.

Access the full details of the SIAEC and Safran joint venture and what it means for LEAP engine MRO capacity across Asia-Pacific.