Singaporean based aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider SIA Engineering Company Limited (SIAEC) is set to operate at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

NAIA operator San Miguel-backed New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC) announced that SIAEC, local unit SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corporation (SIAEP) is already operating in Clark, will begin MRO service operations at NAIA by September.

SIAEP’s parent SIAC is majority owned by Singapore Airlines Group.

NNIC said SIAEP’s decision to expand to the country’s main gateway “reflects growing confidence in the airport’s ongoing improvements and its potential to become a stronger hub for aviation services.”

The San Miguel-led airport operator said SIAEP’s entry into NAIA is seen to benefit not only local carriers, but the broader aviation industry as it opens up more opportunities for skills development, knowledge transfer, and jobs in aircraft maintenance.

“This is a big boost for NAIA and for Philippine aviation. We welcome SIAEP and look forward to working closely with them to improve support for airlines operating here,” said Ramon Ang, president and CEO of NNIC.

The presence of SIAEP at NAIA will help provide faster aircraft turnaround and improved technical support, benefitting both airlines and passengers, according to NNIC.

The NAIA operator added that major MRO companies have also expressed interest in establishing a presence at NAIA.

With more players coming in, airlines will have more choices, leading to better service options and greater overall efficiency.

“This is part of our broader push to raise NAIA’s standards and make it a better, more reliable gateway not only for travelers, but for the aviation industry as a whole,” added Ang.