Germany-based MRO provider FAI Technik has been honoured for innovation in engineering in the 2021 Middle East Aviation Awards for its work on Project Pearl. The multi-million euro refurbishment of a pre-owned Bombardier Global Express was led by specialist aviation interior design partner and architect Tim Callies.

Dubai-based FAI managing director Barbara Baumgartner accepted the accolade at an awards gala evening attended by senior aviation industry leaders who were delighted to be reunited after months of travel restrictions. Baumgartner, who is marking 20 years with FAI, comments: “Not only was it terrific to accept this award on behalf of our super talented engineering team in Nuremberg, but it was wonderful to get back with friends and colleagues, celebrating a special evening, coinciding with the Dubai Airshow.”

It is the third award for the FAI Group this year. Earlier it was named Air Ambulance Company of the Year by the International Travel & Health Insurance Journal, an accolade it was also given in 2020. It was also awarded the Pandemic Response Special Award in recognition of its business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“At a time when pre-owned larger business jets are increasing in value, buoyed by demand as a result of the global pandemic, we are very pleased to have made such an investment and are delighted to be recognised in this prestigious Middle East Aviation award,” adds FAI chairman Siegfried Axtmann.

FAI's Global Express Project Pearl entered service in autumn 2020, the culmination of nearly 10,000 man hours of work. The Global has a luxurious interior with 12 VIP seats in two-tone grey leather and two three-seat sofas upholstered with Armani fabric. Heated, grey-white marble stone flooring was applied in the galley and VIP toilet areas, and granite countertops in the galley and bathroom were appointed to match. A wine cooler, barista coffee maker and oven were also installed.

The customised exterior paint scheme in black and white was also designed by Callies, and FAI selected cabin management and entertainment systems from Collins Aerospace Venue and Honeywell Ka-band broadband technology.