Aviation service provider AAR is to buy interiors engineering company Aircraft Reconfig. Technologies (ART) from ZIM Aircraft Cabin Solutions for $35m in an all-cash transaction.

When completed, the acquisition will immediately expand AAR’s engineering and certification capabilities in its repair and engineering segment, giving the organisation a point of difference in the competitive North American MRO sector.

Founded in 1990, ART’s workforce of around 100 is based in Greensboro, North Carolina.

READ: Haeco Cabin acquired by Zim Aircraft Seating

An FAA Part 21 and 183 Organization Designation Authorizations (ODA) holder, Aircraft Reconfig Technologies’ robust IP portfolio includes patents, parts manufacturer approval (PMA), and supplemental type certificates. Incorporating these qualifications into AAR’s repair and engineering segment will expand AAR’s design capabilities for more complex aircraft modification work to complement its MRO offering. The ODA designation will also minimize AAR’s reliance on third parties for design certification.

“AAR is excited to announce our agreement to acquire Aircraft Reconfig Technologies, a company with a strong reputation for high quality reconfiguration solutions. M&A is an important element of AAR’s continued growth strategy. This acquisition will elevate AAR’s engineering and in-house certification services to drive proprietary solutions as part of our broader MRO offering. We look forward to welcoming the skilled team at Aircraft Reconfig Technologies to AAR,” said John M. Holmes, AAR’s Chairman, President and CEO.

“This acquisition will add incremental engineering capabilities that will further differentiate AAR and enable us to expand our total accessible market,” added Tom Hoferer, AAR’s Senior Vice President of Repair & Engineering. “Further, by combining Aircraft Reconfig Technologies’ qualifications with AAR’s leadership position in MRO, we will be able to bring certification for our engineering solutions in-house, which will enhance our offerings to customers and create opportunities for AAR to pursue additional work.”

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of AAR’s Fiscal Year 2026, subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of certain regulatory approvals. The acquisition is expected to be accretive to both margins and earnings.