Etihad Engineering has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with e& UAE, the telecommunications subsidiary of the global technology group e&, to explore the establishment of a private 5G network at its extensive MRO facility near Abu Dhabi International Airport, spanning 550,000 sqm.
The private 5G network aims to provide Etihad Engineering with high-speed, low-latency connectivity, essential for real-time data sharing and communication across its operations. “With e& UAE’s expertise, we are aiming to leverage next-generation connectivity to facilitate applications like augmented reality (AR) for maintenance, IoT-enabled asset tracking, and enhanced surveillance systems. These innovations are designed to streamline workflows and minimize downtime,” stated Daniel Hoffmann, CEO of Etihad Engineering.
Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, emphasized the transformative impact of the partnership, “This collaboration is poised to redefine aircraft maintenance, harnessing 5G to elevate operational performance and reliability to new heights. This is a pivotal advancement in the digital transformation of the aviation industry.”
Bookie Ghauri, Head of Digital, Technology, and Innovation at Etihad Engineering, highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative: “Integrating a private 5G network is crucial for realizing our vision of a fully digital and connected operational ecosystem. This technology enhances real-time data capabilities, decision-making, and automation, which are critical for maintaining our leadership in aircraft engineering and innovation.”
The feasibility study for this private 5G deployment at Etihad Engineering, conducted by e& UAE, is nearing completion, with a detailed implementation plan to follow.
This partnership reflects Etihad Engineering’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge aviation technology, setting new industry standards in efficiency, safety, and digital transformation in aircraft maintenance. The announcement was made at the MRO Europe 2024 event in Barcelona, organized by Aviation Week.
