StandardAero (NYSE:SARO) Q4 2025 Earnings call February 25, 2026 05:00 PM ET Company ParticipantsAlex Trapp - Chief Strategy OfficerDan Satterfield - CFOKristine Liwag - Executive Director and Head of Aerospace & Defense Equity ResearchRama Bondada - Senior Vice President of Investor RelationsRussell Ford - Chairman and CEOSheila Kahyaoglu - Managing Director in Equity ResearchConference Call ParticipantsDoug Harned - Managing Director and Senior AnalystGavin Parsons - Equity AnalystKrista Friesen - Equity ...

StandardAero (NYSE:SARO) Q4 2025 Earnings call February 25, 2026 05:00 PM ET Speaker7Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for your patience. We will get started soon.Speaker8Good afternoon. Welcome to StandardAero's fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings conference call. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. A question-and-answer session will follow the formal presentation. If anyone should require operator assistance during the conference, please press star zero on your t ...

Core Viewpoint - The Shandong Provincial Government has released a three-year action plan (2026-2028) aimed at promoting high-quality development in the aviation maintenance industry, establishing new advantages in modern service industry development [4] Group 1: Development Goals - By 2028, Shandong aims to establish at least one global "one-stop" aviation maintenance center and develop two full-chain aviation maintenance industrial bases in Jinan and Qingdao [4] - The plan includes the cultivation of two specialized aviation maintenance industrial bases in Yantai and Rizhao, focusing on key areas such as wide-body aircraft, engine, and landing gear maintenance [4] - The goal is to foster over 50 aviation maintenance and aircraft manufacturing enterprises in the province, achieving a total revenue of over 4 billion yuan [4] Group 2: Industrial Cluster Development - The plan emphasizes the implementation of high-standard cluster actions to create a cluster-based aviation maintenance industrial base, focusing on the full industrial chain of large aircraft maintenance services [5] - Jinan and Qingdao will adopt a "platform + market + technology" model to build globally competitive full-chain aviation maintenance industrial bases [5] - Yantai and Rizhao will focus on a "research + manufacturing + maintenance" model to establish nationally competitive specialized aviation maintenance industrial bases [5] Group 3: Infrastructure and Service Enhancement - The plan supports the collaborative development of international aviation hubs at Jinan and Qingdao airports, and a regional aviation hub at Yantai airport [5] - New airports in Zaozhuang and Liaocheng, along with the relocation of Weifang airport, will include the construction of maintenance facilities to enhance maintenance capabilities [5] - Airports in Jining, Rizhao, Linyi, and Heze are encouraged to provide general aircraft maintenance, inspections, and overhauls [5] Group 4: Green and Specialized Services - The plan aims to establish a green lifecycle service center for large aircraft in Jinan and Qingdao, promoting the green dismantling of retired large aircraft and the recycling market for second-hand aviation materials [6] - Yantai, Liaocheng, and Binzhou will develop specialized manufacturing bases for aircraft fasteners, structural components, and landing gear using new alloy materials [6] - The initiative includes advancing technologies for precision forging of aircraft engine blades and three-dimensional weaving of helicopter propeller blades in various cities [6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 increased by 14% to $46.2 million, up from $40.5 million in the same period last year, with year-to-date revenue growth exceeding 18% [9][10] - Gross profit rose by 37%, with gross margin expanding by 410 basis points to 25.1% compared to 21% in Q3 2024 [10] - Operating income reached $5.2 million, up by 52.6% year-over-year, while net income for the quarter was $4.8 million compared to $2.9 million a year ago [10][11] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 34% to $6.8 million, achieving a record adjusted EBITDA margin of 14.6% [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - APU revenue surged by 39% year-over-year and 27% sequentially, with year-to-date revenue up by 26% [13] - Heat exchanger revenue increased by 6% year-over-year, with a 14% growth on a year-to-date basis [13] - Landing gear revenue more than doubled year-over-year and nearly doubled sequentially, reflecting a strong operational ramp-up [15] - Trading and leasing revenue decreased both sequentially and year-over-year, but year-to-date revenue is up by 17% [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The broader aviation market is experiencing high fleet utilization and lower aircraft retirements, driving sustained demand for maintenance, repairs, and overall activities [5][6] - The company maintains a backlog and LTA value at $520 million, indicating durable customer demand [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth and diversification, targeting underserved areas of the commercial aviation industry [4][5] - Plans to pursue inorganic growth through acquisitions to expand capabilities and address market needs [7][8] - The company aims to leverage its strong balance sheet to identify strategic opportunities for growth [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about the future, citing a strong backlog and a large pipeline of opportunities [18][64] - The company is actively managing supply chain dynamics and has made significant progress in inventory levels [18][56] - Management emphasizes the importance of adaptability in a changing environment as a competitive advantage [17] Other Important Information - The company has added experienced corporate development executives to evaluate strategic M&A activities [8] - New independent directors have been elected to enhance governance and leadership capabilities [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: How did TAT manage the change in demand this quarter? - Management highlighted the ability to adjust workforce and resources in real-time to meet customer needs, emphasizing the expected growth in landing gear revenue [22][23] Question: Can you discuss the characteristics of underserved MRO opportunities? - Management noted that the post-COVID recovery and part shortages have created opportunities for flexible companies that can provide timely service [24][25] Question: What is the outlook for the backlog? - Management stated that a slight sequential decline in backlog is a non-issue, with a strong opportunity pipeline and optimism about future wins [28][29] Question: How are operations affected by external disruptions? - Management indicated that while short-term hiccups may occur, there is no sustained impact expected on growth patterns [30] Question: What is the outlook for Q4 and 2026? - Management expressed optimism for 2026, citing strong trends, a robust backlog, and a large pipeline of opportunities [64]

Group 1 - The article discusses the importance of enabling Javascript and cookies in browsers to prevent access issues [1] - It highlights that users with ad-blockers may face restrictions when trying to access content [1]

Core Points - The explosion of a UPS cargo plane has resulted in a death toll of 13, confirmed by the Louisville mayor [1][2] - UPS has released the names of the three victims aboard the plane, which included two pilots and an international relief officer [2] - The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, with the left wing catching fire and an engine falling off [4] Company Response - UPS expressed condolences to those affected and emphasized their commitment to supporting the impacted community [3] - Operations at UPS Worldport resumed the night following the incident, with all runways at the Louisville airport reopening [8] Investigation Details - The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the plane's maintenance history, particularly focusing on repairs conducted in Texas prior to the crash [4][5] - The cockpit voice recorder and data recorder were recovered and appeared intact, with final data showing an altitude of 475 feet and a speed of 210 mph before the crash [6] - A structural crack in the center wing fuel tank was noted in FAA records prior to the incident [7]

Core Insights - Hainan's strategic location allows for significant coverage in Asia and globally, enhancing its potential as an aviation maintenance hub [1] Group 1: Industry Development - Hainan's one-stop aircraft maintenance industrial base has completed over 2,300 aircraft repairs and 270 complete aircraft paint jobs since its inception in 2022 [5] - The base has received maintenance licenses from various authorities, including CAAC and FAA, and has integrated into GE's global maintenance network, filling a gap in high-end aircraft engine maintenance in China [2][5] - The projected annual maintenance capacity is expected to reach 60 engines, with an estimated annual output value exceeding 3 billion yuan once fully operational [2] Group 2: Policy Support - The Hainan Free Trade Port's policies have significantly reduced operational costs for companies, including a tax savings of approximately 100 million yuan through zero tariffs on self-use equipment imports [3] - The innovative regulatory model of "direct access to the zone" has streamlined customs processes, further enhancing operational efficiency [3] - Hainan Airlines has imported aviation materials worth about 350 million yuan since 2020, saving over 50 million yuan in taxes, which has improved its market competitiveness [3] Group 3: Market Opportunities - The demand for aircraft maintenance services is expected to grow as Hainan Free Trade Port operations commence, leading to increased flight frequency and a denser route network [6] - The industrial base has attracted over 20 international airlines, establishing a reputation for quality and service, resulting in repeat business from various countries [5] - Future plans include expanding customer bases in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Northeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, as well as enhancing capabilities in various aircraft maintenance services [6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 2025, the company reported revenue of $1.53 billion, a 13.5% increase from $1.35 billion in Q2 2024, with 11.5% of this growth being organic [18] - Adjusted EBITDA rose to $205 million, reflecting a 20% growth compared to $170 million in the prior year, with adjusted EBITDA margins expanding by 80 basis points to 13.4% [19][28] - Net income increased significantly to $68 million from $5 million year-over-year, driven by higher sales and expanding margins [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Engine Services revenue increased by $139 million to $1.35 billion, representing an 11.5% growth, driven by strong aftermarket activity and production ramp-up on growth programs [20] - Component Repair Services revenue grew by 31% year-over-year to $178 million, with adjusted EBITDA growing 50% and achieving a record margin of 29% [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial aerospace sales grew by 14% year-over-year, with strong demand for CF34, LEAP, CFM56, and turboprop platforms [6] - Business aviation sales increased by 9%, while military sales grew by 12% due to contributions from the AeroTurbine acquisition [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its LEAP program, enhancing CFM56 and CF34 capacity, and improving capabilities in component repair services [9] - The company aims to maintain a disciplined approach to capital allocation, combining organic investments with strategic M&A opportunities [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strong demand environment and the ability to navigate supply chain challenges, with expectations for continued revenue growth and margin expansion [30][27] - The company has increased its 2025 revenue guidance to between $5.875 billion and $6.025 billion, reflecting strong performance in Engine Services [27] Other Important Information - The company expects free cash flow for 2025 to be in the range of $155 million to $175 million, with a significant cash flow expected in the second half of the year [24] - The company’s leverage improved to 2.99 times net debt to EBITDA, down from 5.4 times in 2024 [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on revenue cadence in Engine Services - Management confirmed that revenue growth expectations remain strong, particularly for the CF34 program, and expressed confidence in the second half guidance [35][36] Question: Margin dilution from new programs - Management indicated that while margins expanded by 80 basis points, they would have been higher without the ramp programs, and profitability is expected to improve as revenue increases [38][39] Question: Growth dynamics for LEAP, CFM56, and CF34 - Management explained that LEAP is being carefully ramped up for precision, while CF34 is expected to see increased work due to aging engines coming due for major overhauls [45][46] Question: Engine exchange program details - Management clarified that the engine exchange program involves a one-time investment for an exchange engine, which is then overhauled and reused, maintaining an asset-light structure [47][56] Question: M&A pipeline and organic growth opportunities - Management stated that the M&A pipeline remains robust, with a focus on disciplined capital deployment, while also highlighting strong organic growth opportunities [86][89]

Core Insights - TAT Technologies Ltd. has signed a five-year maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) agreement with a leading international cargo carrier, valued between $40 million to $55 million [1][2][3] - The agreement expands APU maintenance support to include Boeing 737, 757, 767, and Airbus A300 fleets, and adds support for Boeing 777 fleets [1][2] - This contract extension reflects TAT's growing leadership in the APU MRO market and its commitment to providing superior service solutions [2][3] Company Overview - TAT Technologies Ltd. is a provider of services and products to the commercial and military aerospace and ground defense industries, operating under four segments: OEM of heat transfer solutions, MRO services for heat transfer components, MRO services for aviation components, and overhaul and coating of jet engine components [4][5][6][7][8] - The company operates subsidiaries such as Limco for heat transfer MRO services and Piedmont for aviation component MRO services, both of which are FAA-certified [6][7] Strategic Importance - The contract signifies a deepening relationship with an important international cargo customer and validates TAT's Customer First initiative and Customer Partnership strategy [3] - The expansion of services under this agreement is seen as a testament to TAT's brand strength and proven capabilities in the APU MRO business [3]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q1 2025 was $1.4 billion, a 16% increase from $1.2 billion in Q1 2024, with 14.4% being organic growth [19] - Adjusted EBITDA rose to $198 million, up 20% from $166 million in the prior year [19] - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 13.8%, a 40 basis point increase compared to Q1 2024 [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Engine Services revenue increased by $171 million to $1.3 billion, representing 16% growth, driven by strong demand in the commercial aftermarket [21] - Component Repair Services revenue grew by 21% to $167 million, supported by the ATI acquisition, contributing $22 million [22] - Adjusted EBITDA for Component Repair Services grew 32%, with a margin expansion of 240 basis points to 28% [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial aerospace grew 18% year over year, driven by strong demand across major platforms [9] - Business Aviation Group increased 13% compared to Q1 last year [10] - Military business grew 10%, aided by the AeroTurbine acquisition and growth in the J85 program [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on ramping up the LEAP program and has secured additional regulatory approvals to support a broader set of airlines globally [14] - Continued investment in CFN56 and CF34 platforms, with a record quarter on the CF34 platform [15] - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, with a growing pipeline of targets [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about the strong demand in the engine aftermarket and is increasing revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance for 2025 [18] - The estimated net impact of tariffs for 2025 is projected to be around $15 million, which has been incorporated into the updated guidance [13] - The company is well-positioned to navigate macroeconomic uncertainties and trade environment challenges [12] Other Important Information - Free cash flow was a use of $64 million in Q1, which was expected due to working capital seasonality [23] - The company’s leverage improved to 3.09 times, down from 5.7 times at the end of Q1 2024 [24] - The company exited a non-core hydraulics business to focus on higher-margin product lines [71][72] Q&A Session Summary Question: Confidence in CF34 platform growth despite U.S. Airlines' slower capacity - Management noted that maintenance activity has not seen a pullback, as engine MRO is typically the last area airlines cut back on during weak demand [33] Question: M&A environment and opportunities - Management expressed confidence in pursuing M&A opportunities, stating that the environment has become more robust with attractive targets available [36] Question: Growth drivers in Engine Services - Management highlighted military and CF34 as key drivers, with expectations for LEAP and CFM56 to contribute significantly in the future [39] Question: Margin headwinds from LEAP and CFM56 - Management confirmed that while there are margin headwinds due to initial lower margins on LEAP and CFM56, both programs are expected to be accretive long-term [48] Question: Update on ATI acquisition - The integration of ATI is progressing well, with strong revenue and margins, and it is enhancing the existing J85 program work [75][76] Question: Supply chain for LEAP parts - Management reported no significant supply chain issues for LEAP parts, as they are still in the early stages of industrialization [81] Question: Revenue seasonality - Management indicated a typical trend of revenue building from Q1 to Q2 and further into the second half of the year, supported by a diverse platform portfolio [100] Question: Repair capabilities and market potential - Management emphasized the ongoing development of repair capabilities in close coordination with OEMs, indicating a strong runway for growth in the component repair business [88]