The Intricate Landscape of MRO Technology

1. In the author's opinion, how has the MRO landscape evolved over the years? What are some of the advantages of the current technological evolution?

The MRO landscape is constantly evolving with technological advancements increasing to meet the needs of businesses in the region. For many years, airlines have been shifting towards digitalisation with modern technology enhancing maintenance, repair and overhaul. Digital innovation is supporting airlines to operate more efficiently and therefore ensure enhanced customer experience, improving operations and reducing delays.

As an ultra-low-fare airline, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is committed to cost-effective MRO that creates value for the airline and as a result greater services for customers. The prominence of the ‘ultra-low-cost carrier’ model has increased competition between airlines thus resulting in decreased, competitive MRO costs. This evolution ensures we can deliver an efficient, reliable and low-cost service for adventurous travellers in the region.

The technological evolution of aircraft maintenance allows personalised and targeted product offerings to maximise revenue-generating potential. The evolution increases connectivity on-board providing travellers a seamless experience in the air as on the ground.

2. What according to the author are some of the challenges plaguing the MRO landscape and how can they be effectively mitigated?

The MRO landscape is vulnerable to extenuating global aviation circumstances, often hard to control. For example, the pandemic bought a seismic once in a generation closure of the skies with parked fleets posing challenges. Grounded planes, prevented from flying due to international health restrictions, still require maintenance although the reduction in services makes it harder to schedule in servicing. The aviation industry faced a backlog, which made it difficult for airlines to implement rapid turnaround of servicing, which is key to maximise capacity.

The pandemic resulted in deferred repairs and enforced early retirement for aircraft because of the reduction in planes flying.

For Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the pandemic provided us with an opportunity to launch our services, knowing that the market would soon pick up again. We rapidly expanded our network, capitalising on available landing slots and capitalising on the pent-up demand for travel.

3. Which are a few technological trends influencing MRO today? What are some of the best practices businesses should adopt today to steer ahead of competitors?

Exciting technological trends in MRO will allow for greater sustainability in the industry. Customers are now demanding enhanced management of resources, protecting the future of the planet. The climate change crisis has led to increased innovation of alternatives to oil, such as sustainable aviation fuels, ensuring a greener low-carbon future, and a greater freedom to fly.

4. Does the author have any advice for industry veterans or budding entrepreneurs from the MRO space?

My advice would be to focus on the key emerging trends of the future, increasing digitalisation and a renewed commitment to sustainability. MRO demands that post post-pandemic, both industry veterans and ambitious entrepreneurs must support the future growth of a truly digital, convenience-driven, sustainability-minded traveller.