- The approval enables DCAF to provide comprehensive Line and Base maintenance support for T7 registered private and commercial aircraft from its Dubai South hub
- Achieved in less than three months, the certification expands DCAF’s MRO capabilities to support ultra-long-range and large-cabin business jets
Dubai, UAE, July , 2026: DC Aviation Al-Futtaim DCAF, one of the UAE’s leading business aviation operators based at Al Maktoum International Airport, has received its standalone CAR-145 maintenance approval from the San Marino Civil Aviation Authority (SMCAA). The approval allows DCAF to deliver both Line and Base maintenance services for San Marino T7 registered private and commercially operated aircraft.
The approval marks a significant milestone for DCAF, expanding its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in the region. The approval process was completed in less than three months, a remarkable timeline for an undertaking of this scale and was made possible through close collaboration and support from the SMCAA. The approval is available to both DCAF-managed aircraft and third-party operators, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting a broader customer base across its maintenance operations.
Commenting on the certification, Holger Ostheimer, Managing Director of DC Aviation Al-Futtaim, said: “Securing the standalone SMCAA CAR-145 approval is a major step forward in our regional growth strategy. The approval reinforces our position as a trusted maintenance partner for business aviation operators in the region and being able to offer them fully independent Line and Base maintenance support right here in Dubai is a significant advantage.
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our team and the incredible cooperation we received from the SMCAA to complete this rigorous process in under three months. We look forward to offering our clients an even higher level of flexibility and service excellence,” he added.
Under the approval, DCAF is authorised to provide base maintenance for aircraft including the Bombardier Global Express Series, Global 7500/8000, Challenger 604/605/650, Gulfstream G650, Embraer Legacy 600/650 and Airbus A320 family. Line maintenance support also extends to Boeing Business Jets (737 BBJ 600–900ER) and Dassault Falcon 900EX, 900EX EASy, 7X and 8X aircraft.
The expanded capability also strengthens DCAF’s overseas Aircraft on Ground (AOG) support, enabling the company to respond quickly to the maintenance needs of T7-registered aircraft across the region. Services are delivered by DCAF’s dedicated technical team from its fully equipped maintenance facilities, supported by in-house wheel and battery services as well as comprehensive aircraft cabin and exterior cleaning.
Looking ahead, DCAF plans to further expand its scope of approvals to include additional aircraft types and capabilities in line with evolving market demand.
About DC Aviation Al-Futtaim:
DC Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF) is the premier operator for elite business aviation in the Middle East. A joint venture between Stuttgart’s DC Aviation GmbH and Dubai’s Al-Futtaim, DCAF is the first and only fully integrated business aviation facility at Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai South).
Designed to provide a sanctuary of supreme privacy and security, our state-of-the-art facility enables us to seamlessly maintain and operate business jets of all sizes. The facility features a 1,300 sqm Premier Lounge, dedicated on-site customs, and extensive hangar space. Across Aircraft Management, Maintenance, FBO, Ground Handling, and Charter, the company deliver flawless execution, operating aircraft in an environment in line with the highest industry standards with regards to flight safety and airworthiness.
From discrete arrivals to world-class luxury, DCAF’s commitment to elite service remains absolute. Discover the aviation facility trusted by the most demanding operator at http://www.dc-aviation.ae or call +971 4 870 1800.
About Al-Futtaim:
Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and health; employing more than 42,000 employees in more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, we partner with over 200 of the world’s most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organization to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate. By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration, integrity, Al-Futtaim continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day
