Canada-headquartered helicopter and engine asset management solutions company Optima Aero is expanding its presence in Europe by opening a new facility in Anglet, France to better serve European and African helicopter operators and OEM markets. The new 1,000 sqm industrial facility will enable aircraft maintenance activities, EASA component refurbishment and certification capability, and also house a distribution centre.

"This new facility, which will mainly support Airbus and Leonardo operators, will allow us to meet the growing demand for serviceable helicopter parts and engines,” says president Toby Gauld. “We will now be in a position to dismantle entire helicopters directly in Europe, thus reducing our carbon footprint related to transportation. Our team will also have the capability to certify helicopter parts."

The new centre is strategically located in the French Aerospace Valley to foster collaboration with industry actors and facilitate access to specialised resources. The move from Labenne to Anglet has been completed and the team is already in full operation under the leadership of Céline Marchal. Over the next two years, Optima Aero Europe will employ some 20 technicians and commercial specialists.

The team is focused on helping helicopter operators and maintenance experts improve capital efficiency, cost control or the mission readiness of their aircraft.

"We are focused on creating an optimal balance by increasing operators' cash flow, reducing maintenance costs and making serviceable helicopter and engines parts available when and where you need them,” says Gauld. “Our team of aviation experts is committed to providing innovative and targeted solutions for the helicopter industry."