BAE Systems to provide component support to Eastern Airways’ Jetstream 41 turboprops

UK-based BAE Systems Regional Aircraft has signed a materials and components repair and overhaul (MACRO) rate-per-flying-hour programme agreement with regional airline Eastern Airways to provide component support services to the airline’s fleet of 16 Jetstream 41 turboprop aircraft.

The MACRO programme, which has been designed to offer services to Jetstream and ATP (Advanced Turboprop) operators, provides customers with a fixed maintenance cost that includes comprehensive spares support for a single fixed rate per aircraft flight hour.

Under the new MACRO deal, BAE Systems will provide 176 customised rotable spares support service and be responsible for managing the spares inventory, logistics and repairs.

This contract doubles the number of in-service Jetstream 41s covered by BAE Systems, while bringing the total value of business from this service to £35m over the past year.

BAE Systems stated that Eastern Airways’ contract comes after the company received a similar three-year extension support deal from Braathens Technical AB of Sweden for its subsidiary Malmö Aviation’s fleet of 12 Avro RJ regional jets.

Other operators of Jetstream 41 turboprops that have selected BAE Systems support services include Airlink of South Africa, Yeti Airlines of Nepal and Sky Express of Greece.

Powered by two Honeywell TPE331-14GR/HR turboprop engines, the Jetstream 41 turboprop aircraft can be configured in a ten seat VIP layout, as a 16 seat executive airliner or as a 29 or 30 seat commuter aeroplane.

Eastern Airways operates more than 800 flights a week on a comprehensive network of scheduled domestic and international services and private charter services.

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Image: The new component support service deal with Eastern Airways doubles the number of in-service Jetstream 41s covered by BAE Systems. Photo: courtesy of BAE Systems.