UK parts specialist AJ Walter Aviation has been engaged to help Aero Contractors extend its in-house maintenance capabilities and to source two Bombardier Q400 turboprops for the Nigerian carrier.

AJW says it will "assist in the restructuring and upgrading" of Aero Contractors' MRO operations. This will include extension of maintenance capabilities to span C-checks for Boeing 737 Classics.

Aero Contractors will support both its own and third-party aircraft, notes AJW.

Flight Fleets Analyzer shows that the airline operates three 737-400s and has stored six 737-500s and a 737-400.

Its fleet also includes a Q300, two Q400s, a Hawker 800 business jet and various helicopters.

AJW says it will handle disposal of Aero Contractors' Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150s – which power the Q400 – and manage engine shop visits for the airline.

Meanwhile, the aftermarket firm's lease arm will "facilitate the acquisition of two new Bombardier Q400 aircraft for Aero Contractors", AJW says.

Aero Contractors chief executive Ado Sanusi states: "[The deal] will have a marked effect on our operations going forward. Having been in the business for 58 years, I am confident we have found the right partner to work with."

Source: Cirium Dashboard