Abu Dhabi: Sanad, the global aerospace engineering and leasing solutions leader, has announced the acquisition of Rolls Royce Trent 700 engines from Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates. The agreement was signed by Kashish Kohli, Group Chief Financial Officer of Sanad, and Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Interim Chief Operations and Guest Officer, during the third edition of the Make it in the Emirates Forum. This deal emphasizes both companies’ commitment to the UAE’s national industrial strategy and vision for localized aerospace capabilities.
According to Emirates News Agency, this strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in Sanad’s efforts to expand its global engine asset management and MRO capabilities. It strengthens the UAE’s ambition to establish a globally competitive aviation supply chain ecosystem. By acquiring these engines, Sanad enhances its ability to support airlines globally with cost-effective spare parts and flexible leasing solutions, thereby improving turnaround times, reducing maintenance costs, and boosting operational efficiency for its international customers.
The deal arrives at a crucial time for the aviation industry, as operators prioritize efficiency and fleet longevity amid ongoing supply chain disruptions and delays in new aircraft deliveries. The Rolls-Royce Trent 700, specifically designed for the Airbus A330, remains in high demand with a 60 percent market share, over 2,000 units delivered, and more than 60 million flight hours logged. Its efficiency and reliability make it a key platform for Sanad to provide sustainable lifecycle solutions and long-term value to operators worldwide.
Mansoor Janahi, Managing Director and Group CEO, highlighted the transaction’s significance, citing it as a strategic advancement in the two-decade partnership with Etihad. This enhances Sanad’s capabilities to meet the evolving needs of regional and global aviation markets. As the only independent MRO provider globally with a long-term strategic partnership with Rolls-Royce for the Trent 700, Sanad currently services 25% of the global Trent 700 fleet. The acquisition deepens this capability and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s role as a center for aerospace innovation and sustainable industrial growth.
Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, remarked that the agreement reflects Etihad’s commitment to optimizing its fleet as the A330ceo is phased out. It supports a trusted UAE partner and contributes to the growth of the local aerospace sector. Beyond immediate market demands, this acquisition plays a critical role in advancing the UAE’s strategy to localize aerospace capabilities, accelerate sustainable economic growth, and position Abu Dhabi as a leading global aviation supply chain hub.
By expanding its service portfolio, Sanad is driving international investment, cultivating local talent, and delivering world-class MRO and leasing solutions from Abu Dhabi to the global aviation market.