FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Atlanta, GA, United States, 10 March 2026 - Rotortrade, the global helicopter dealership, and SKYTRAC Systems Ltd. (SKYTRAC), a global leader in satellite communications and intelligent connectivity solutions, announce a strategic technical partnership covering Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.
Under the agreement, Rotortrade MRO Tallard (France), Rotortrade MRO Latrobe (Pennsylvania, USA), and Rotortrade Helipark, MRO Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) are designated as authorized SKYTRAC Service Centers. The partnership encompasses the authorized resale of SKYTRAC’s avionics portfolio, certified installation services through Rotortrade’s EASA and FAA Part 145 facilities, and the establishment of regional stocking locations for AOG-critical spare parts and new equipment across three strategic regions.
Rotortrade will act as an authorized reseller of SKYTRAC’s avionics systems across Europe, the United States, and the Middle East, including broadband and narrowband satellite communication terminals and associated components. Installations will be performed in accordance with SKYTRAC-approved Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) and installation documentation, ensuring full compliance with applicable aviation authority requirements and quality standards.
The Tallard, Latrobe, and Riyadh facilities will serve as regional stocking hubs for new equipment and AOG spares, enabling rapid dispatch and improved operational continuity for helicopter operators across Europe, North America, and the Gulf region. Component-level repairs will continue to be performed by SKYTRAC, with Rotortrade coordinating logistics, local integration, and customer support.
In parallel, the parties have signed a Letter of Intent to collaborate on the development of the initial STC for SKYTRAC’s next-generation SDL broadband satellite communication system. Under this framework, Rotortrade will identify suitable helicopter platforms and operators, provide aircraft access, perform prototype installations at its maintenance centers, and support testing activities. SKYTRAC will lead system engineering, certification development, and liaison with the applicable aviation authorities. Upon certification, Rotortrade will serve as the authorized installation center and reseller for the approved platforms within its respective regions.
Philippe Lubrano, Founder & CEO of Rotortrade, commented: “This partnership strengthens the technical positioning of Rotortrade MRO Tallard, Rotortrade MRO Latrobe, and Rotortrade MRO Riyadh. 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.”
Jeff Sherwood, Director of Business Development at SKYTRAC, added: “Establishing authorized service centers 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.”
The partnership will be governed through regular business reviews and coordinated program management for the new broadband system’s certification phase, reflecting both companies’ long-term commitment to the global rotorcraft market.
ABOUT ROTORTRADE
Established in 2012 by industry expert Philippe Lubrano, Rotortrade has grown into a truly global helicopter dealership and a recognized leader in the pre-owned helicopter market. Operating through 15 dealerships worldwide and 3 certified maintenance centers, Rotortrade delivers a seamless, end-to-end experience across its three core service pillars: helicopter sales, maintenance (MRO), and financing solutions. With an inventory exceeding USD 120 million in fully owned aircraft, Rotortrade stands as the only helicopter dealership in the world offering such scale and independence—ensuring immediate access to a wide choice of operational aircrafts to meet customers’ diverse mission requirements. As the sole distributor of Leonardo Civil Helicopters, an approved reseller of Airbus Civil Helicopters, and a trusted partner of Bell, Safran, and Pratt & Whitney for Certified Pre-Owned programs, Rotortrade provides unparalleled access to the world’s leading helicopter brands. Each aircraft undergoes comprehensive inspections and quality assurance processes to guarantee the highest standards of safety, reliability, and performance. A global dealership with local expertise, Rotortrade leverages deep industry knowledge and a commitment to transparency to redefine the helicopter transaction experience—offering tailored, locally relevant solutions to customers around the world. In October 2021, The Helicopter Company (THC), backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), acquired a 51% stake in Rotortrade, followed by full ownership in June 2023, further strengthening the company’s foundation for innovation, growth, and excellence worldwide. Rotortrade: Helicopters You Can Trust.
ABOUT SKYTRAC SYSTEMS LTD.
With over 40 years of experience providing critical capabilities, SKYTRAC is trusted by over 800 customers as a leading provider of LEO satellite and cellular communication services for all aerospace sectors. With over 900 airframe certifications, SKYTRAC’s DAO has supplemental-type certifications under TC, FAA, EASA, ANAC, and more. Trusted by operators, organizations, and OEMs, SKYTRAC provides critical capabilities such as medical data transfer, video streaming, real-time HUMS, and more over the Iridium Certus® and cellular networks. Learn more at www.skytrac.ca.
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