The Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) announced that AeroThrust Holdings LLC, USA has formally concluded a joint venture agreement with Bahraini partners to establish AeroThrust Gulf Aviation Services W.L.L in Bahrain.

This follows a proactive outreach and consultation process by the EDB to support the decision to invest in Bahrain, as well as continuing support around the registration process. The announcement was made Thursday at the second Bahrain International Air show, and the Bahrain Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) has also declared its support for the venture.

This joint venture is expected to leverage AeroThrust Holdings LLC, technical expertise in the aircraft engine Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services sector.

The company will provide full range of aircraft engine MRO services for the Pratt & Whitney JT8 and CFM International's CFM 56 series of engines.

The facility along with the test cell is expected to cover 94,000 sq. ft. It will be completely dust free and incorporate the latest climate control technologies, tools and machinery.

AeroThrust Gulf Aviation Services W.L.L is expected to invest around US$ 20 million over the next 3 years in its facility in Bahrain.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Essa Al-Khalifa, Chief Executive of the EDB, expressed his pleasure at AeroThrust Holdings LLC decision to make Bahrain their home in the Middle East "Bahrain has a proud heritage in the aviation sector and offers a strong location and infrastructure from which to do business across the Gulf region. We have worked closely with AeroThrust Holdings LLC to provide them with all the necessary support and this investment is a demonstration of the benefits of locating in Bahrain. Going forward, we are keen to continue to work together, as they build staff and grow their operations in the Kingdom."

Mr. Mario Abad, Principal and Owner of AeroThrust Holdings LLC, said: "We considered a number of countries in the Middle East to establish an aircraft engine shop. Ultimately, we chose Bahrain for its strategic location, excellent support from the EDB and most importantly for the vision demonstrated by the Government of Bahrain to develop the aviation and aerospace sector. The facilities in Bahrain will be on par with our Miami operations and will include Non-destructive Testing (NDT), Test Cell and Plating Operations."