Collins expands its MRO facility

Opened in 2004, Collins‘ Monroe facility focuses on repairs to a number of commercial and military aircraft systems, including actuation, cargo, rescue hoists and winches, landing gear, air management, portable water and lighting, along with 24/7 aircraft-on-ground spare services. The recent expansion increased the site’s footprint by more than 25 per cent, including a new two-story office building, added shop floor space and an enlarged loading dock.

“The ongoing growth of our Monroe facility represents our commitment to our customers and the community,“ said Mary DeStaffan, General Manager of the Monroe site for Collins Aerospace. “This current expansion will allow us to better support our airline customers as they transition their fleets to more modern, next-generation aircraft. And we’re proud to undertake this journey with support from Union County and the City of Monroe as we continue to contribute to the region‘s growing aerospace cluster.”

Increasing additive manufacturing capabilities

In addition to its recent Monroe expansion, Collins is deliberating plans to invest another $30 million over the next three years to increase additive manufacturing and rescue hoist and winch repair capabilities. The company’s decision to further grow its operations is contingent on approval by both the Monroe City Council and Union County Board of Commissioners of a new economic development program recently introduced by both entities.

The new MAGNET100 program is intended to encourage continued capital investment by companies over a 10-year period. To qualify, companies must meet investment thresholds of $30 million in the first three years and $50 million in the first seven years. The grant recognizes capital investment up to $100 million.

“Collins Aerospace is one of the crown jewels of North Carolina’s aerospace industry, which is among the fastest-growing in the US,” said Christopher Chung, CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. “That Collins Aerospace continues to deepen its footprint in our state with ongoing investment is a strong validation of our business climate and attractiveness to aerospace and aviation companies.”

Last year, Collins Aerospace Systems has been helping the US Navy and Marine Corps to transition from analog to its new digital Enhanced Visual Acuity system.