Exclusive Interview with Aviation Week Fleet Data Services Director Dan Williams
During MRO BEER 2026 in Istanbul, where AirwayBuzz&HavaSosyalMedya proudly served as the official media partner, we spoke with Aviation Week Fleet Data Services Director Dan Williams.
Assessing Türkiye’s potential to become a regional MRO hub, Williams said Istanbul has emerged as one of Europe’s leading centers for maintenance, repair, and overhaul activities. He noted that the expansion plans of companies across the sector, particularly Turkish Technic, will further strengthen the country’s position in the global MRO market.
Williams also discussed the impact of geopolitical developments and trade policies on the MRO industry, stating that while global uncertainties continue to put pressure on the sector, maintenance organizations must adapt to these challenges to ensure operational continuity. He emphasized that safeguarding the supply chain and keeping aircraft in safe service remain among the industry’s highest priorities.
Commenting on ongoing engine maintenance delays, Williams explained that turnaround times, which were around 90 days for certain engine types before the pandemic, have increased significantly. He said it will be difficult for next-generation engines to return to pre-pandemic maintenance timelines, adding that although conditions are expected to improve gradually, it may take several more years for the industry to fully normalize.
Williams also addressed workforce challenges, noting that the departure of many experienced professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the industry. While companies have increased investments in recruitment and training, he stressed that newly hired personnel cannot quickly replace decades of experience. As a result, the need for skilled human resources is expected to remain one of the key challenges facing the MRO sector in the years ahead.
