David Jonker
The Gulf Aircraft Maintenance Co (Gamco) is making military aircraft maintenance part of its growth strategy. While commercial aircraft maintenance will continue, maintenance of military aircraft will become a major part of Gamco's core operations, according to senior Gamco officials.

Gamco has increased its capabilities for maintenance, repair and overhaul of military aircraft since the UAE selected General Electric engines for the F-16 fighters it purchased last year and the Mirage 2000 aircraft earlier, said David Jonker, head of technical services and acting managing director. "The recent UAE Air Force purchase of the GE engine with the F-16 aircraft means that Gamco's engine overhaul facility will be maximised, providing comprehensive maintenance and services," he said.

According to Ahmed A.S. Hassan, manager of military and commercial sales, Gamco was declared the depot maintenance base of the UAE Air Force last year for the service life of the GE engine. As part of the deal, Gamco will have full capability to repair, overhaul and test the T-700 engines of the Apache helicopter and CT7 engines for the CN 235 transport aircraft.

Gamco has been offering general maintenance services for the Mirage 2000 and currently "we are setting up more workshops to support the Mirage 2000 components overhaul. The projects that started last year will be completed in a few months," he said. "Once the F-16 and Mirage-2000 projects are completed, we will be looking at other customers, he said. The company also handles general maintenance of the C-130 aircraft of the Royal Oman Air Force.

Participating for the fifth time at Idex, Gamco will exhibit its capabilities and promoting services for customers worldwide. Gamco is also adding more airlines to its commercial services, including Alitalia, Orix, Sabena, Emirates, RAF, Air Alfa and Singapore Aircraft Lease.  "Gamco is also looking at securing other new customers. Gamco has been asked to tender for contracts with Air Canada," Jonker said.

Gamco is seeking more long-term agreements with international carriers rather than short-term deals, he added. Set up in 1987, Gamco has expanded its business by 20 per cent per year and holds regulatory approvals from 21 organisations and regulatory authorities. With an authorised capital of $55 million, Gamco provides services to over 70 customers worldwide.