AAR Corp. (AIR) is aggressively expanding its aircraft aftermarket capabilities through targeted acquisitions designed to solidify its standing in the growing maintenance, repair and overhaul market.
The company’s strategy focuses on moving beyond traditional maintenance services into higher-value areas of the aviation aftermarket, including engineering, aircraft modification and certification.
In April 2026, AAR completed the $35 million acquisition of Aircraft Reconfig Technologies, a deal that immediately broadened the company’s technical capabilities.
The acquisition added FAA Organization Designation Authorization to AAR’s portfolio, enabling the company to issue supplemental type certificates and Parts Manufacturer Approval entirely in-house.
This newfound authority reduces AAR’s reliance on third-party certification providers, giving it greater control over timelines, costs and overall quality in the certification process.
The deal also strengthens AAR’s aircraft interior design, reconfiguration and engineering capabilities, allowing the company to deliver more comprehensive solutions across the customer base.
These additions position AAR to capture a larger share of aircraft modification and aftermarket spending as airlines prioritize maintaining and upgrading their existing fleets.
With airlines focused on extending the useful lives of aircraft rather than accelerating new purchases, AAR’s expanded capabilities address a growing and increasingly critical segment of the aviation industry.
Other major aerospace players are also active in the MRO space, including RTX Corporation (RTX), which provides engine maintenance, component repair, digital maintenance solutions and comprehensive aftermarket support through its Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace businesses.
The Boeing Company (BA) similarly competes in the sector through its Global Services business, which offers maintenance, repair, engineering, supply-chain and digital sustainment solutions for commercial and military aircraft worldwide.
AAR shares have risen 94% over the past year, dramatically outpacing the industry’s 12.6% growth during the same period.
The company’s stock trades at a notable discount on a relative basis, with its forward 12-month Price/Sales ratio sitting at 1.48X compared with the industry average of 8.77X.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AIR’s 2026 earnings has moved higher over the past 60 days, reflecting growing analyst confidence in the company’s trajectory.
AIR stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of 1, designated as a Strong Buy, underscoring the bullish outlook tied to AAR’s expanding MRO and engineering footprint.
