MRO services to drive Malaysia-US collab in aerospace sector, says trade specialist
15 Jan 2025
Maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services are poised to become the primary area of collaboration between Malaysia and the United States (US) in the aerospace sector, according to the US International Trade Administration’s international trade specialist Stefanie Merchant.
Merchant emphasised the critical role of engines and engine parts in the US aerospace industry, and therefore, Malaysia could play a key role in meeting this demand.
“The opportunities extend to general parts for fixed-wing aircraft, encompassing components as varied as nuts and bolts to larger structures,” she said during the SelectUSA Webinar: Investment Opportunities in the US Aerospace Market on Wednesday.
She also called on Malaysian companies to engage with major US aerospace manufacturers to understand their supply chain needs, to pave the way for strategic partnerships.
Merchant further pointed out that MRO services in the US were expecting unprecedented demand, with the growth being supported by the integration of digital tools and artificial intelligence, to streamline processes such as blade inspection and maintenance record management.
“The need for skilled labour in this sector is also rising to meet the growing workload,” she noted.
Moreover, Merchant said the increasing demand for parts to support fixed-wing aircraft production, including landing gear, and the robust market for engine MRO services in North America, is expected to account for 22.5% of global demand this year, which presents further opportunities for collaboration.
Additionally, she pointed to broader growth in commercial markets with dual defence applications, including unmanned aircraft systems and propulsion systems, in which demand has surged due to spillover effects from defence to commercial applications.
Meanwhile, National Aerospace Industry Corporation (NAICO) Malaysia chief executive officer Prof Shamsul Kamar Abu Samah said the entity is heavily investing in developing future-ready professionals for the aerospace sector in Malaysia.
He said this mission was in line with the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 to position Malaysia as a global aerospace hub, while focusing on innovation, fostering strategic partnerships, and ensuring sustainable growth in this critical industry.
Malaysia’s aerospace exports reached an impressive RM4.87 billion, while imports stood at RM10.93 billion from January to October 2024.
“We have shown resilience and growth with key markets like Asia Pacific and Europe, driving demand for our aircraft parts and components.
“This is a testament to Malaysia’s robust aerospace supply chain, and our growing reputation on the global stage,” he added.
Source: Bernama
