By Maria Kalamatas – The Logistic News
March 21, 2025 – As airlines and lessors grapple with persistent maintenance capacity shortages, Airhub Aviation, a subsidiary of GetJet Aviation Holding, is stepping up to fill the gap. The Lithuania-based aviation asset management and MRO specialist has officially launched new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations at Siauliai International Airport (SQQ), Lithuania, reinforcing its position as a key player in the global aviation maintenance sector.
Addressing Industry-Wide Maintenance Challenges
The global aircraft fleet is expected to expand by 28% over the next decade, yet the industry continues to struggle with maintenance slot shortages and supply chain disruptions. Recognizing these challenges, Airhub Aviation is investing in expanded MRO capacity in Northern-Eastern Europe, ensuring greater accessibility to essential maintenance solutions.
“As the global fleet matures and stays in service longer, maintenance requirements are evolving beyond routine checks,” said Oleg Novak, CEO of Airhub Aviation.
“More lessors, asset owners, and operators are turning to MRO providers for complex maintenance programs, such as second 12-year heavy checks. At Airhub Aviation, we see rising demand for flexible, full-scope MRO solutions, and we are committed to meeting that need by expanding our maintenance capabilities in Lithuania.”
A Strategic Expansion for Fleet Operators & Lessors
With aircraft replacement cycles extending and mid-life aircraft seeing increased demand, efficient fleet transitions and technical support are now more critical than ever. Airhub Aviation’s MRO facility at SQQ enhances its ability to seamlessly handle aircraft checks and (re)deliveries, both for its owned fleet and partner operators.
“Our new facility allows us to integrate maintenance into our broader asset management services, ensuring operators experience minimal downtime and optimal aircraft performance,” Novak added.
Proven MRO Success & Growing Industry Partnerships
Airhub Aviation has already demonstrated its ability to deliver high-quality maintenance solutions, with its first MRO season successfully completing:
- 17 maintenance inductions
- Seven heavy checks on A320ceo aircraft
- Support for eight CAMO clients
- Management of five line stations
- Component repair oversight for more than 100 customers
The company’s growing customer portfolio includes World Star Aviation, GA Telesis, TrueNoord, and other leading aviation asset managers.
“With the global fleet aging and immediate aircraft replacements not always feasible, the demand for comprehensive MRO services is accelerating,” Novak stated.
“Our Lithuania facility allows airlines and lessors to prepare aircraft for sale, lease, or redeployment with minimal turnaround time. We provide EASA-compliant modifications, LOPA retrofits, and engine swaps—all under one roof.”
Siauliai (SQQ): A Key Hub for Aviation Growth in the Baltics
Strategically located in Northern-Eastern Europe, Siauliai International Airport (SQQ) offers some of the most cost-effective maintenance solutions in Europe. The airport’s infrastructure includes:
- Two of the longest runways in the region (3.5 km each)
- Dual-use civilian & NATO military operations for 24/7 access
- High-security facilities to support global fleet operations
Novak emphasized the strategic benefits of the location:
“Our presence in Lithuania strengthens our ability to support fleet operators across Europe and beyond. With well-developed transport links and proximity to major airline hubs, SQQ is an ideal location for asset management and maintenance operations.”
A Cutting-Edge MRO Facility with Global Reach
Completed in 2023, the Siauliai MRO facility is one of the most advanced maintenance centers in Northern-Eastern Europe. The 183,000-square-foot facility can accommodate:
- Five narrow-body aircraft simultaneously
- Two narrow-body aircraft and one wide-body aircraft, including models up to the size of a Boeing 747-8 or Airbus A350-1000
The facility is designed as a one-stop shop for airlines and lessors, offering:
- On-site warehouses and workshops
- State-of-the-art technical support
- Comprehensive maintenance solutions to streamline fleet operations
Revolutionizing Aircraft Lifecycle Management
By expanding its MRO capabilities at SQQ, Airhub Aviation is reinventing aircraft maintenance and lifecycle management, offering a new level of flexibility and efficiency to global operators.
As the aviation industry continues to navigate evolving fleet demands and maintenance challenges, Airhub Aviation’s investment in MRO capacity underscores its commitment to delivering world-class maintenance solutions.
For more updates on the latest developments in aviation asset management and MRO operations, stay connected with The Logistic News.
Maria Kalamatas
Senior Journalist, The Logistic News
