GMF and VELA Explore MRO Capability Development for eVTOL and hVTOL

Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Garuda Maintenance Facility Aero Asia Tbk (GMF) and PT VELA Prima Nusantara (VELA) are exploring the development of GMF’s capabilities as an Approved MRO Facility for the Vela Alpha Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft, which utilises electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) and hybrid Vertical Take-Off and Landing (hVTOL) technology.

“GMF’s involvement from the development stage through to operational service preparation opens opportunities for us to develop new capabilities beyond traditional aircraft MRO,” said GMF President Director Andi Fahrurroxim in a statement in Jakarta on Thursday.

He stated that the collaboration serves as an initial step for GMF and VELA to build the readiness of the supporting AAM ecosystem for VELA, an Indonesian-made AAM aircraft, as the aircraft is planned to enter its operational phase in 2029.

The Vela Alpha is being developed to address Indonesia’s geographical connectivity challenges, offering an alternative for urban mobility amidst congestion, while providing zero-emission air transport.

Beyond the development of MRO services, this partnership opens opportunities for GMF’s involvement from the early stages of Vela Alpha’s development through to its commercial phase.

GMF also has the potential to develop capabilities as a Production Certificate (PC) Holder and obtain the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) for serial production, thereby allowing GMF to take a broader role in the value chain of AAM aircraft development and production.

Andi noted that this aligns with GMF’s business development plans in the field of aerostructures, where GMF has already obtained the AS9100 Certificate.

“This includes opportunities in production certification, facility development, and support for the development of the Advanced Air Mobility industry ecosystem in Indonesia and the region,” he said.

GMF and VELA will explore cooperation ranging from the development phase to the commercialisation phase.

The collaboration is supported by GMF’s capabilities in aircraft maintenance, aircraft engineering, and aerostructures, which can be synergised with VELA’s expertise in research, design, development, and AAM technology certification.

“Advanced Air Mobility opens a new chapter in the aviation industry. For GMF, this cooperation presents business opportunities while driving the development of capabilities and competencies to meet the needs of aviation technology that increasingly prioritises sustainability,” said Andi.

Meanwhile, VELA Director Silverius Kevin P appreciated GMF’s progressive step in identifying the potential of a broader future market.

“GMF’s commitment to developing diversification and transforming beyond the boundaries of traditional MRO services demonstrates extraordinary business agility,” said Silverius.

“We are confident that this collaboration will not only ensure that the Vela Alpha is produced and maintained to the highest standards but will also accelerate our steps towards commercial operations in 2029,” he added.