Nuremberg-based MRO provider Aero-Dienst has been awarded a four-year contract from the German aerospace research center DLR to provide maintenance support on its highly modified Falcon 2000X EASy research aircraft. The scope of the contract ranges from 12-, 24-, and 36-month inspections to special inspections of engines or structural parts that are required because of the aircraft’s various research projects.

Aero-Dienst has about 30 experienced Falcon technicians to draw from to address maintenance needs regarding airframes, avionics, engines, and other equipment. They will carry out their work at DLR’s in-flight systems and technology airborne research (ISTAR) base at Braunschweig. That will enable DLR’s specialists to make efficient use of the aircraft’s downtime to perform instrument installations and modifications for new research projects.

“This research aircraft plays an essential role in the development of new environmentally friendly and efficient aircraft, engines, and assistance systems because the technology needed for climate-neutral aviation will be pushed ahead with the aid of ISTAR,” said Martin Gestwa, head of DLR's research flight department and technical operations. “In view of extensive modifications to DLR research aircraft, maintenance and repair procedures differ significantly from those used for unmodified aircraft. So, we are very grateful to have found an extremely competent partner for our ISTAR research aircraft in Aero-Dienst.”