Duncan Aviation is celebrating its newly expanded turbine engine overhaul shop at its Lincoln headquarters in Nebraska with an exclusive VIP ceremony. The small, private event brings together state and local government dignitaries, airport officials and construction partners to celebrate a milestone facility that significantly scales up Duncan Aviation's global engine service capabilities.

Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Lincoln Mayor Leiron Gaylor Baird, leadership from the Lincoln airport Authority, including Michael Griffin and Chad Neuhalfen, and Nebraska Legislative Senators Carolyn Bosn and Jason Prokop. They were joined by Duncan Aviation's senior management team and representatives from the project's key construction and engineering partners, including Hausmann Construction, Commonwealth Electric and Rasmussen Air and Gas Energy.

The state-of-the-art facility represents a major long-term infrastructure investment designed to meet growing global demand. The expansion builds directly upon Duncan Aviation's long-standing relationship with Pratt & Whitney, leveraging the company's status as a Pratt & Whitney Designated Overhaul Facility for PW300 and PW500 turbofan engines to capture new international engine service business.

The newly expanded facility and upgraded backshops feature strategic investments in advanced machinery and infrastructure designed to enhance efficiency and safety, including: twelve dedicated maintenance bays – configured to handle a high volume of engine work simultaneously; expanded backshops – centrally located and upgraded with advanced tooling and machinery; new test cell and control room – provided by Atec, offering a quieter, more efficient and state-of-the-art testing environment; new parts inventory warehouse – optimised to streamline workflow and improve overall operational efficiency; advanced safety and utility infrastructure – installation of 16 one- and two-ton overhead cranes for precise handling of large engine components; an upgraded utility infrastructure featuring a larger evaporator drain pit for chemical recycling; and a 12,000-gallon fuel tank with a backup system to ensure continuous test cell operations; and modern amenities – new offices, conference rooms, breakrooms and locker rooms to support both customers and team members.

During the dedication, Duncan Aviation chairman Todd Duncan expressed deep gratitude to the tradespeople, engineers and community leaders who brought the project to fruition, emphasising that the building is an investment in both the development of a high-skilled workforce and the regional economy.

“This facility represents a significant investment in our future,” says Todd Duncan. “It expands our capabilities, strengthens our engine service offerings and positions us to better serve customers from across the country and around the world. Strong businesses need strong communities, and strong communities benefit from thriving businesses.”

As a token of appreciation, VIP attendees were presented with a limited-edition challenge coin commemorating Duncan Aviation's 70th anniversary. The coin features four generations of the Duncan family, symbolising the deep-rooted relationships, values, and community partnerships that have driven the company's success in Nebraska for seven decades.

Following the formal dedication, members of the senior management team guided attendees on an exclusive, first-look tour of the cutting-edge facility to demonstrate the advanced aviation technology and streamlined workflows now operational within the shop. The tour also featured a stop at the company's technical education centre, where class was in session for team members receiving the hands-on, on-the-job training and education required to earn their Airframe and/or Powerplant certificates.

Scott Stoki, Duncan Aviation's vice president of engine operations, expresses his gratitude to everyone who attended the grand opening events. “It was wonderful to hear such positive feedback and enthusiasm from so many who toured the facility. This investment in our engine programme ensures we will have the capacity to support our customers' needs for many years to come.”