StandardAero has consolidated its Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada helicopter centre of excellence (COE), after accelerating the final phase of integration of helicopter MRO engine operations into one site.

The company's transition programme included the integration of two additional centres located Langley, British Columbia, and Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada, to support helicopter airframe/component MRO services and turboprop engine MRO services, respectively. The two-year centre restructuring programme was originally expected to be completed by the end of 2020.

“The early completion of our COEs was a key element to ensure organisational efficiency and increase our capability to respond more effectively to the dynamic and uncertain market conditions that currently affect customers' operations anywhere in the world,” says Claus Eisenschmid, VP and GM of the Winnipeg helicopter centre. “Our overall strategy and commitment is to be the most trusted partner for MRO services.”

To further support customers, the company has also invested additional resources in facility improvements and acquired a brand new test cell supporting Rolls-Royce M250/RR300 helicopter engines.

“Rolls-Royce is proud to recognise StandardAero for its strong partnership and ongoing support as a FIRST Network provider,” says RR director of helicopter services Scott Cunningham. “Its significant investment in new capabilities at the Winnipeg centre ensures that StandardAero will continue to provide world-class MRO services to model 250/RR300 customers for years to come.”

In addition to the Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) PT6T and Safran Arriel 1 and 2 engine services, which have operated in Winnipeg's Plant 4 since early 2019, the Rolls-Royce M250 and Rolls-Royce RR300 engine lines were moved into the same facility in only three months. To ensure a smooth and safe transition, all the necessary precautions and measures were taken, protecting the safety and health of employees and suppliers at all times.

Effective immediately, all helicopter inductions will be conducted at the Winnipeg centre. StandardAero's other existing Rolls-Royce M250 authorised maintenance centre in Singapore and the North American service centres in Richmond, British Columbia, and Concord, North Carolina remain open and fully operational.