Fast 5: Aeras Aviation Plans U.S. Market Push

Dubai-based aviation asset management firm Aeras Aviation recently announced several senior appointments as part of its push into the U.S. market. Aviation Week Network spoke with CEO Demetrios Bradshaw about the strategic opportunities that are driving the company’s expansion in the U.S.

You have identified the U.S. as a key focus for your next growth phase. Beyond establishing a physical presence, what does your expansion strategy involve?

The U.S. market is not simply a new location for Aeras Aviation—it is strategic to our global expansion. In addition to setting up a physical presence, we are focusing on building local partnerships, developing our U.S.-based workforce and establishing a strategic base in South Florida, which includes a 30,000 ft.² warehouse. The aim is to support U.S. operators, lessors and MROs with aftermarket services and a digitally driven approach.

Which U.S. aftermarket segments will you initially focus on?

Initially, we are targeting both narrowbody and widebody engine platforms, such as the [CFM International] CFM56, [IAE] V2500 and [General Electric] CF6. This is where we see strong demand for intelligent asset management. Additionally, we are expanding our support to include regional jet components and selecting high-turnover material programs for the business aviation sector. Our entry point will be driven by demand but always underpinned by lifecycle value creation, particularly for mid-life and end-of-life assets.

You’ve stated plans to deepen service offerings. Which services will you prioritize as part of your U.S. market strategy?

We are rolling out three core pillars tailored for the U.S. market: end-of-life engine solutions (disassembly, used serviceable material [USM] harvesting and consignment); on-wing and field services, including aircraft-on-ground and remote diagnostics; and material planning and sourcing optimization using artificial intelligence (AI) supported tools. In fact, we are also exploring AI tools to help us better integrate with U.S. operators, MROs and leasing companies.

What are the biggest opportunities and key challenges in the U.S. market?

The opportunities include the rising demand for USM driven by cost pressures, increased outsourcing by U.S. airlines and a strong interest in digitalization. There is also momentum around sustainable asset lifecycle management, where we have an established track record.

Key challenges include building brand recognition in a competitive market, managing persistent labor costs and shortages, and navigating the complexities of fragmented state-level regulations. There is still a knock-on effect from the pandemic, with a shortage of qualified labor at the MROs, since many skilled workers left the industry. Nevertheless, these are hurdles we are prepared to address with adaptive strategies and local expertise.

Is the U.S. tariff environment a concern for Aeras Aviation, and how do you plan to mitigate any potential risks?

Tariffs are always a factor in cross-border operations, but we are minimizing exposure through regional warehousing, in-market vendor agreements and multi-source procurement models. We are yet to fully understand how any tariffs will affect us; however, it is still early days.

Additionally, our digital-first approach allows us to pivot quickly when economic conditions shift. At this stage, we do not anticipate significant disruption, but we remain vigilant.