A new purpose-built helicopter blade repair and overhaul centre by Sikorsky Aerospace Services has been opened at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Texas.

The 152,000 square foot facility has been designed on Lean manufacturing concepts and is about three times the size of the former centre.

It will offer faster repairs at a lower cost through its 6,000-shaft horsepower dynamic test stand for range of helicopter models and two downdraft paint booths.

Sikorsky Aerospace Services is the aftermarket business arm of Sikorsky Aircraft which in turn is a subsidiary of United Technologies.