Paris, Amstelveen, 27 January 2014 - Myanmar Airways International (MAI) recently inked an exclusive contract with AFI KLM E&M to provide engine support for the CFM56-5B power plants equipping its fleet of A320 family aircraft. MAI is part of Myanmar's leading financial corporation KBZ Group, which also launched the domestic carrier Air KBZ in 2011.
Long-term agreement
This new long-term agreement highlights the confidence placed by MAI in AFI KLM E&M's expertise and quality of service. Partnership between the two companies dates back to July 2012, when MAI chose to entrust to the MRO the component support of its fleet of A320.
Mr Si Thu, Managing Director of Myanmar Airways International, said: "We strengthened our trust in AFI KLM E&M services based on the high level of expertise as airline and MRO, the state-of-the-art engine maintenance facilities and the adaptiveness shown over the years all along the gradual renewal of our fleet. We are happy that AFI KLM E&M is an active and reliable participant to the development of our company and look forward to larger cooperation as strategic partners".
Fabrice Defrance, AFI KLM E&M Senior VP Commercial, added: "Our Group has built a close business relationship with MAI and KBZ Group, the leading airline group in the fast growing Myanmar aviation market. We are very pleased to further contribute to MAI quality of operations and spotless safety records".
About Myanmar Airways International
Myanmar Airways International Co., Ltd. is the international flag carrier of Myanmar, headquartered in Yangon. It operates scheduled international services to destinations mainly in Southeast Asia. The carrier is based at Yangon International Airport.
About KBZ Group
Kanbawza Bank Limited (KBZ) is the leading private financial group in Myanmar. The bank was established on 1 July 1994 in Taunggyi, Shan State. In February 2010, KBZ bought an 80% share in Myanmar Airways International, and will hold soon 100% of the airline. On 1 April 2011, the bank launched Air KBZ, the leading privately owned domestic airline in the country. KBZ Group of companies was the sponsor of the 27th South East Asia Games hosted by Myanmar in December 2013.
About AFI KLM E&M
Air France Industries and KLM Engineering & Maintenance, which joined forces following the AIR FRANCE KLM merger, are major multi-product MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) providers. With a joint workforce of over 14,000, AFI KLM E&M offers comprehensive technical support for airlines, ranging from engineering and line maintenance to engine overhaul, aero structure and FTR support, as well as the management, repair and supply of aircraft components, structured around a powerful logistics network. AFI KLM E&M supports almost 1,300 aircraft operated by 150 major international and domestic airlines.
