As maintenance slot shortages persist globally, operators across Europe are searching for cost-effective and strategically located solutions. With the opening of a modern maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility at Šiauliai International Airport (SQQ) in northern Lithuania, Airhub Aviation is putting itself firmly on the radar.
More than a regional expansion, the new site signals a shift in how mid-life and end-of-life aircraft are managed in an environment of ageing fleets, tighter lease cycles and shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Strategic infrastructure in a dual-use hub
The location speaks volumes. Šiauliai Airport isn’t just another commercial airfield — it’s also a NATO base with two of the region’s longest runways and 24/7 operational capacity. “It’s one of the most modern MRO centres in northern and eastern Europe, and one of the most cost-effective options in Europe overall,” said Oleg Novak, CEO of Airhub Aviation. “With this new site, we’re boosting our capacity to support not only our own fleet but also partner airlines and lessors.”
The decision to set up operations in Lithuania aligns with broader regional trends. “Kaunas has already established a strong reputation in MRO services, and we are seeing new infrastructure investments in Vilnius,” Novak added. “Lithuania’s aviation sector already contributes four percent to the national GDP. By building up our infrastructure here, we’re contributing to the country’s positioning as a hub for advanced aviation services.”
As global fleet age rises, so does the demand for flexible, full-scope MRO. Novak believes Airhub’s offering answers an acute need in the current market. “The global aircraft fleet is expected to increase by 28 percent over the next decade,” he said. “At the same time, maintenance slot shortages and supply chain challenges are putting pressure on operators.”
The Šiauliai facility targets mid-life and late-life narrowbody aircraft like the Airbus A320ceo and Boeing 737NG. Services include heavy checks, engine swaps and aircraft modifications. “More lessors and operators are seeking facilities capable of handling larger and more complex tasks — like second 12-year checks,” Novak explained.
Integrated MRO
“At Airhub Aviation, we take a comprehensive, integrated approach to aircraft management,” said Novak. “We offer a full suite of services — fleet management, aircraft transitions, component repair, CAMO and MRO.” This vertical integration gives clients a single point of contact throughout the asset’s lifecycle. “We help clients extend lifespan, reduce downtime and maintain market value,” Novak said. “Managing everything under one roof allows us to deliver consistent value at every stage.”
While industry forecasts focus on recovery and fleet growth, Novak offers a more grounded take on what it takes to survive volatility. “We all can agree the last five years were super challenging — global pandemic, war in Ukraine and Israel, political tensions,” he said. “There are no trends that help you through all of that — but what really helps is instant flexibility and adjustability.”
Scaling sustainably
Sustainability remains a challenge in maintenance-intensive sectors, but Airhub is putting systems in place to align with broader industry goals. “Sustainability and responsible governance are at the core of our operations,” Novak said. “We’re reducing our environmental impact through full operational digitisation and initiatives within our managed AA+ hangar facilities.” The company is also investing in solar energy to offset part of its electricity needs.
Airhub’s parent, GetJet Aviation Holdings, is not just a shareholder — it’s a strategic enabler. The MRO operation was initially proven using GetJet’s own fleet before expanding to third-party work. “We’ve successfully proven our concept by serving the GetJet Airlines fleet, and now it gives us access to solid resources, expertise and operational support,” Novak explained. “Being part of a well-established aviation group gives us a solid foundation for growth.”
