Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), Malaysia’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) arm, has opened its latest 14-line MRO hangar, marking Malaysia’s largest and most advanced facility. The state-of-the-art facility, covering over 380,000 square feet, spans 20.25 acres within the KLIA Aeronautical Support Zone 1 under Malaysia Airports’ KLIA Aeropolis development. It features dedicated workshops such as Composite, Sheet Metal & Machine, Upholstery, Cabin Interior Repair, Oven & Boiler Workshop, and a 3D Printing Lab for aircraft livery. Additionally, it houses a Digital Product Development Centre, positioning ADE as one of the region’s most extensive MRO providers.
At the event, the Malaysia Book of Records recognized the new facility with three prestigious national records: Longest Single Span Pre-Engineered Building (PEB) System Rafter, Longest Locally Designed Single Span Truss Frame System, and Longest Vertical Hangar Door (Megadoor). These honors highlight the architectural and engineering excellence of the facility, setting it as a benchmark in the industry and highlighting Malaysia’s growing prominence in the global aerospace sector. This recognition celebrates the innovation and dedication behind the MRO facility, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia’s aviation history.
Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, said, “We are incredibly proud of ADE’s achievement. The new hangar is not just a facility; it represents our vision for the future of MRO in Asia with our ambitions to disrupt and become the leading provider in Southeast Asia and beyond. In just four years since ADE’s inception, we have built the competencies and facilities necessary to become a leader in this segment. With Malaysia’s strategic location and our investment in cutting-edge technology, ADE is set to revolutionize the MRO landscape, offering innovative, efficient, and cost-effective solutions in the region. This facility will enhance our capability to provide top-notch value and services to AirAsia and other airlines. This growth is crucial in supporting AirAsia’s ambitious goal of operating 300 aircraft within five years. This milestone firmly places Malaysia on the map as a world-leading MRO provider.”
Subashini Silvadas, CEO of Capital Aviation Services (CAPAS), said, “The launch of ADE’s 14-line hangar is a pivotal moment and marks a significant milestone for ADE, our MRO business, and the broader CAPAS portfolio companies. As we continue to expand our services, which include Santan (inflight catering business), Darts (back office shared services business), and upcoming ground handling business, we remain steadfast in our commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence. Our vision is to establish CAPAS as Asia’s leading aviation service provider, delivering exceptional service and value to our clients, exceeding the standards of the industry.”
Mahesh Kumar, CEO of ADE, added, “The completion of this hangar is perfectly timed to meet our growing demand for MRO services. We will be completing our 200th C-check this year with initially seven lines, and the addition of up to 14 lines will significantly expand our capacity to serve more clients. This landmark facility enhances our capabilities and creates at least 500 new jobs in Malaysia, attracting local talent and foreign investment. We are committed to nurturing aviation professionals and setting new standards in the MRO industry. This hangar is a testament to our team’s dedication and continuous support from partners.”
ADE is testing soil on a five-acre plot adjacent to its new MRO hangar to leverage its ongoing expansion. It plans to build a supplementary four-line facility in line with solid forecast demand. Additionally, ADE is discussing with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad to acquire an additional 20 acres within the KLIA area for development as a premier MRO center.
With over 20 years of engineering experience servicing the world’s best low-cost airline, AirAsia, ADE is extending its expertise and best practices in airline engineering to attract more third-party airlines. Services include component support, line maintenance, and base maintenance for various aircraft models, such as the Airbus A320 and A330 families and the Boeing 737 family, with plans to expand capacity to service other aircraft types.
ADE has recently received approval from EASA’s Part 145 Maintenance Organisation and Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO) in seven other countries, and it plans to expand to other countries in the region. In 2023, ADE secured a USD 100 million investment from OCP Asia Ltd., gaining a significant boost for the next growth phase.
