The problem with standards is that everybody has one. However, there are several industry trends—such as new-generation aircraft and asset lifecycle management systems—that are accelerating the adoption of the ASD SX000i and ISO standards. Now the challenge isn't what standard to use to move toward data interoperability, it is when to incorporate the standards, the cost of conversion and the commitment to comply. For new aircraft and weapons systems, the decision is easy. Backward compatibility for older aircraft is another story.

VAS Aero Services is expanding its distribution facility in Kent, Wash. to nearly 300,000 sq. ft. Space in the building will increase by more than 50%. IT

CFM International has signed a suite of material support agreements with Delta Air Lines to support the operator's fleet of close to 400 CFM56-7B engines in service or on order, as well as its MRO work for third-parties. The agreement covers the comprehensive repair and replacement of life-limited and non life-limited parts for the engines, as well as technical data for component repairs and engine overhauls. CFM also announced that its CFM56-5B performance improvement program engine has logged more than 30,000 flight hours with no technical issues since Oct. 2011.

Sabena Technics is now a limited liability company with a board of directors instead of executive and supervisory boards.The MRO's board named Rodolphe Marchais as CEO and chairman of its board of directors, and Marchais then appointed Jean-Luc Fournel COO customers, Philippe Rochet to COO production and Stephane Burton to COO supply chain and support.

Aviation Business International promoted Shawn Horvath to manager of maintenance and technical services. He will oversee line maintenance and special projects within the Americas.

Goodrich has signed a five year, Prime Solutions nacelle services agreement with LOT Polish Airlines for support of its nacelles and thrust reversers for the GE CF34-10E engines that power the carrier's Embraer 195 aircraft. Under the agreement, Goodrich will provide nacelle MRO services for thrust reversers, inlet cowls and other nacelle components. The deal also includes access to large nacelle components for lease or exchange.

Northwest Aerospace Technologies is working with British Airways on its first class cabin retrofit program for the Boeing 777-200 and Boeing 747-400 aircraft. The modification includes new first class suites, IFE upgrades, cabin lighting and electronic window blinds.

If Air Canada and American Airlines outsource their airframe maintenance, where will the work go and which MRO providers have the required capacity? These questions, as well as what really prompted Aveos Fleet Performance to close, were the hot topics of sideline talk during our MRO Americas Conference & Exhibition last month in Dallas. At presstime, both carriers are in the initial stages of exploring third-party market capabilities and capacity.