MRO Specialist Airway Aerospace Joins AxioAero Group in Strategic Acquisition

January 10, 2026 at 01:31 AM•2 min read

AxioAero Group, a CORE Industrial Partners portfolio company, has acquired Airway Aerospace, an FAA EASA certified MRO specialist, in a deal advised by XLCS Partners.

Key Points

1The transaction for the Airway Aerospace sale to AxioAero Group was completed on December 17, 2025, advised by XLCS Partners.
2Airway Aerospace is a multi-certified MRO (FAA, EASA, CAA UK) specializing in airframe and powerplant repairs for commercial and defense platforms.
3The acquisition is AxioAero Group's second in two years, following Aviation Concepts in January 2024, as it builds a consolidated aerospace aftermarket platform.
4The global air transport MRO market is projected to reach $96.44 billion in 2026, making strategic acquisitions a key trend for growth and efficiency.

The AxioAero Group acquisition of Airway Aerospace is now complete. XLCS Partners, a leading middle market investment bank, advised Airway Aerospace on the sale. The transaction closed on December 17, 2025. This move significantly expands AxioAero’s presence in the commercial aviation MRO market.

Strategic Aerospace Aftermarket Growth

Airway Aerospace, founded in 2013, is a specialized MRO provider. It offers maintenance repair and overhaul services. These services cover accessories, airframe, and powerplant components. The company serves commercial, cargo, and aerospace and defense sector clients.

Airway holds key global certifications. These include FAA EASA certified and CAA UK approvals. They also maintain RS-DER repair authority. This allows them to support a wide range of aircraft.

Supported platforms include the Boeing 737 Airbus A320 family. They also service wide-body jets like the Boeing 747/767. The company specializes in hydraulics, fuel systems, and flight controls. Airway Aerospace will keep its current name and leadership.

AxioAero Group is a portfolio company of CORE Industrial Partners. This is AxioAero’s second strategic purchase. They previously acquired Aviation Concepts in January 2024. The goal is building a differentiated aerospace aftermarket platform.

Industry Impact and Market Trends

This Airway Aerospace sale highlights MRO sector consolidation. Independent providers seek scale for better supply chain resilience. The global air transport MRO market shows robust growth. It is projected to be worth $96.44 billion in 2026. This growth is driven by expanding global fleets.

Airlines are increasingly outsourcing MRO services. They prioritize cost efficiency and technical expertise. Airway's focus on airframe and powerplant repairs is critical. This expertise is vital for maintaining aging fleets.

Opportunity: AxioAero can now combine parts distribution with repair services. This integration is expected to reduce aircraft turnaround times.
Challenge: The MRO sector faces a persistent technician shortage. Engine shop bottlenecks also limit capacity expansion.

Joe Contaldo, Partner at XLCS Partners, led the advisory team. The firm is known for its aerospace and defense sector M&A work. This successful deal provides a stellar outcome for the client. For more commercial aviation news and analysis, visit flying.flights.

Airway’s owner, Joe Ferrer, called AxioAero the ideal partner. This partnership supports continued growth while preserving company values. The acquisition strengthens the aftermarket support network. This is crucial for global operators of Boeing and Airbus aircraft. The EASA certification ensures compliance with European standards. More information on the advisory firm can be found at XLCS Partners.