GoJet Airlines is proud to announce a significant milestone in its expansion efforts, marked by the receipt of an FAA 145 Certification as a Large Aircraft Repair Station, enabling the company to establish itself as a premier Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility. This achievement comes at a pivotal time for the aviation industry, particularly in the St. Louis area, where GoJet was founded and is headquartered.
This expansion is projected to create over 150 new positions in the St. Louis area, contributing significantly to the local economy. By October 2024, GoJet will oversee four lines of Heavy Maintenance and two Modification lines. GoJet President and CEO, Rick Leach, states, “It’s only natural for us to take this step, given the exceptional quality and knowledge base that both our maintenance leadership and technicians provide. This expansion not only creates jobs but also reinforces our longstanding commitment to the St. Louis economy, cementing our position to retain jobs here and strengthen the local aviation community.”
In recent years, the aviation landscape has seen a rebound in domestic fleets, with narrowbody aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo and Boeing’s 737 MAX leading the resurgence. An estimated 20,600 new aircraft are set to be delivered over the next 10 years, 77% of which will be narrowbodies. As these aircraft are delivered and returned from long-term storage, there arises a critical need for MROs tailored to meet this requirement. This demand is particularly crucial for regional airlines, which are also welcoming back aircraft from storage as air travel demand recovers and aggressive hiring initiatives continue. Recognizing this, GoJet strategically broadens its operations, combining in-house Heavy Maintenance with additional contracts to meet the growing need for MRO services. Leveraging its newly acquired 145 certification, the company aims to position itself as a trusted MRO partner for regional airlines and others.
Leach says, “We understand that there are other quality maintenance providers in the market. However, being one of the few Part 121 operators offering this service, and only one of two regional airlines, GoJet now has a unique opportunity. Our offering of this new service not only highlights our dedication to the regional market but should also provide our prospective airline customers with an additional level of comfort and support.” GoJet expands its service offerings to encompass specialized maintenance programs, interior and composite capabilities, and aircraft modifications/upgrades, all aimed at delivering a superior customer experience. By prioritizing efficient turnaround times, quality workmanship, and personalized service, GoJet is committed to maximizing customer satisfaction in this new role. “We are so delighted by the news of GoJet’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility expansion,” says St. Louis Lambert International Airport Director and CEO Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge. “This is simply a part of the overall growth and redevelopment occurring at our airport at this time.”
Efforts are underway to attract more clients and secure long-term maintenance contracts, further enhancing revenue streams. Through strict adherence to safety regulations, quality standards, and continuous improvement initiatives, GoJet Airlines is dedicated to building on its already strong reputation in the aviation industry in this expanded way.