Maintenance provider Air Works India Engineering soft-launched its new aircraft appearance division in Mumbai late last week. The completions facility has already been approved by India’s civil aviation authority and is expected to gain EASA certification next year, according to Air Works.

Last year, the company acquired Dubai-based private aviation specialist Empire Aviation Group, a move Air Works said would help increase its footprint in the Middle East and provide aircraft management services to its customers in India. “Empire has a great business model, an experienced management team and a strong reputation,” said Air Works managing director Vivek Gour. “We are confident that we can build a strong franchise in the emerging aviation markets of India and the Middle East.” The company is preparing to open a new office in Bangalore specifically to handle the work generated by Empire Aviation.

Empire is preparing to take delivery of two new large business jets on behalf of clients–one this year and the other in March next year. The company will handle all technical aspects of the green aircraft deliveries, as well as specifying interior completion plans. Air Works’ new aircraft appearance division is already doing carpet replacement, veneer restoration and gold plating on other aircraft.