Sabena technics signs new contract for the maintenance services French Air Force's fleet of MRTT Phénix aircraft

Sabena technics group will operate as a subcontractor to Airbus Defense & Space, on the Istres air base, close to the French Air Force, for a period of 12 years, covering a broad spectrum of services. The proximity to operational staff on-site will guarantee the best availability of this strategic fleet for the Direction de la Maintenance Aéronautique and the French Air Force.

Philippe Rochet, Chairman of the Sabena technics group commented: “ We are delighted and proud that Airbus Defense and Space has chosen Sabena technics to maintain the Air Force’s strategic MRTT fleet in operational condition. Sabena technics, a long-standing partner of the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, has extensive experience in the maintenance of French Government tanker aircraft. Our teams of experienced specialists, constantly striving for flight safety and operational performance, will be fully committed to providing a service that lives up to the expectations of Airbus Defense & Space, and of the end customer, the French Air Force.” 

After a brief stint at its Nîmes facility, Sabena technics will be moving to the Mercure hangar at the Jean Sarrail aeronautical center in Istres, closer to the operational staff, to carry out the following maintenance tasks:

• Scheduled maintenance visits every 6 and 12 years, as well as lower-level visits on request;
• Managing unscheduled maintenance work at very short notice and modification work on request;
• Maintenance of medical emergency kits.

Sabena technics will also supply the MRTT at the Aeronautical Technical Support Squadron (Escadron de Soutien Technique Aéronautique MRTT) at Istres Air Force Base 125:

• A one-stop service for the distribution of spare parts and tooling directly to Air Force and Space Force mechanics, up to 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week;
• Tire exchange and battery charging service;
• Support for Air Force and Space Force mechanics in the implementation and maintenance of MRTTs.

Sabena technics will also be able to carry out repairs on demand anywhere in the world.