GKN Aerospace awarded Rolls-Royce engine repair contract

Image courtesy GKN Aerospace

This agreement builds on more than 20 years of GKN Aerospace’s proven expertise in Trent 800 and RB211-535 fan blade, fan disk and annulus filler repairs. Under the new contract, GKN Aerospace will expand its capabilities to include Trent 700 fan blade repairs, providing the market with a new independent repair source to support these components.

These mature and reliable engine platforms are expected to remain in service for many years. The expanded repair capability will help ensure continued operational excellence and fleet availability for operators worldwide, at a time of growing demand in the global MRO aftermarket.

All work will be carried out at GKN Aerospace’s newly expanded, purpose-built 150,000 ft² San Diego facility (above). The site is equipped with state-of-the-art automation technology and advanced robotics, enabling highly efficient, consistent and high-quality repairs with reduced turnaround times. Leveraging decades of experience with Trent 800 and RB211-535 fan blades, the team will now extend this expertise to the Trent 700 engine family.

Gerald Coste, Senior Vice President, GKN Aerospace Repair Solutions, said: “We are extremely proud to strengthen our long-standing relationship with Rolls-Royce through this new agreement. It reflects the confidence our customers place in our technical expertise, our investment in advanced repair technologies and our commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality solutions.”

GKN Aerospace is a global multitechnology specialist in the aerospace and defence industry, specialising in the development and delivery of cutting-edge aerostructures and engine systems. Its products, systems and services are integral to 90% of today’s major aircraft. These range from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes and advanced air mobility vehicles, to uncrewed military platforms and state-of-the-art fighter aircraft.

GKN Aerospace provides innovative solutions in the application of lightweight composites, additive fabrication, electrical wiring interconnection systems and ground-breaking engine systems, reducing both weight and cost in today’s aircraft and engines. It is at the forefront of sustainable technology, developing breakthrough solutions to achieve emission-free flight. Its global technology centres collaborate with industry partners around the world to accelerate the development of pioneering technologies, including hydrogen-powered propulsion and all-electric flight. 

Operating in 12 countries, GKN Aerospace employs a workforce of 16,000 employees across more than 30 locations. GKN Aerospace has global sales of £3.6 billion and is listed under its parent company name Melrose Industries plc.