Helicopter dealership Rotortrade and SKYTRAC Systems, a provider of satellite communications and intelligent connectivity solutions, have formed a partnership that will see Rotortrade MRO Tallard in France, Rotortrade MRO Latrobe in the United States, and Rotortrade Helipark, MRO Riyadh in Saudi Arabia become authorised SKYTRAC Service Centres.
As service centres, the Rotortrade sites will be able to resell SKYTRAC’s avionics systems across the varying regions and conduct installations under Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs). Each site will serve as a regional stocking hub for equipment and AOG spares, while SKYTRAC will continue to perform component-level repairs.
“By combining SKYTRAC’s connectivity expertise with our certified installation capabilities and global customer network, we are expanding our ability to support operators not only in aircraft acquisition and maintenance, but also in advanced avionics and satellite communication upgrades across multiple continents,” said Philippe Lubrano, Founder & CEO of Rotortrade.
Jeff Sherwood, Director of Business Development at SKYTRAC, added: “Establishing authorised service centres with Rotortrade in Europe, the United States, and the Middle East creates a robust and certified framework to support operators in key growth markets. Their EASA and FAA Part 145 capabilities, expanding regional inventory presence, and strong rotorcraft relationships provide an ideal platform to deliver satellite communication solutions efficiently and in full regulatory compliance.”
Additionally, the two companies have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to develop the initial STC for SKYTRAC’s next-generation SDL broadband satellite communication system. Rotortrade’s role will be to identify suitable platforms and operators, perform prototype installations, and support testing activities. The intention is that Rotortrade will serve as an authorized installation centre and once the system is certified.
Photo: Rotortrade
