DC Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF), one of the UAE's leading business aviation operators based at Al Maktoum International airport, has received its standalone CAR-145 maintenance approval from the San Marino Civil Aviation Authority (SMCAA). The approval allows DCAF to deliver both line and base maintenance services for San Marino (T7) registered private and commercially operated aircraft.

The approval marks a significant milestone for DCAF, expanding its MRO capabilities in the region. The approval process was completed in less than three months, a remarkable timeline for an undertaking of this scale and was made possible through close collaboration and support from the SMCAA. The approval is available to both DCAF-managed aircraft and third-party operators, reinforcing the company's commitment to supporting a broader customer base across its maintenance operations.

Commenting on the certification, Holger Ostheimer, managing director of DC Aviation Al-Futtaim, says: “Securing the standalone SMCAA CAR-145 approval is a major step forward in our regional growth strategy. The approval reinforces our position as a trusted maintenance partner for business aviation operators in the region, and being able to offer them fully independent line and base maintenance support right here in Dubai is a significant advantage.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our team and the incredible cooperation we received from the SMCAA to complete this rigorous process in under three months. We look forward to offering our clients an even higher level of flexibility and service excellence.”

Under the approval, DCAF is authorised to provide base maintenance for aircraft including the Bombardier Global Express Series, Global 7500/8000, Challenger 604/605/650, Gulfstream G650, Embraer Legacy 600/650 and Airbus A320 family. Line maintenance support also extends to Boeing Business Jets (737 BBJ 600-900ER) and Dassault Falcon 900EX, 900EX EASy, 7X and 8X aircraft.

The expanded capability also strengthens DCAF's overseas AOG support, enabling the company to respond quickly to the maintenance needs of T7-registered aircraft across the region. Services are delivered by DCAF's dedicated technical team from its fully equipped maintenance facilities, supported by in-house wheel and battery services as well as comprehensive aircraft cabin and exterior cleaning.

Looking ahead, DCAF plans to further expand its scope of approvals to include additional aircraft types and capabilities in line with evolving market demand.