Starlinks, Swisslog to Automate New Aviation MRO Facility in Saudi Arabia

SAUDI ARABIA: Starlinks has partnered with Swisslog to deliver an integrated supply chain and warehouse automation solution for a new aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul facility in Saudi Arabia.

The programme will support the storage, handling and distribution of aviation materials and spare parts as demand for aircraft maintenance services continues to grow across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.

Starlinks is delivering the overall supply chain solution, including supply chain design, automation planning and operational implementation, while Swisslog will provide the warehouse automation systems and software.

Supporting Growth in Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Sector

The new facility is being developed within one of the region’s major aviation hubs and is intended to support expanding requirements for maintenance services and spare parts logistics.

As local and regional airlines continue to expand their fleets and increase passenger and cargo capacity, aviation supply chains are being required to process larger volumes of materials while maintaining rapid access to critical components.

Starlinks will oversee the broader logistics design and implementation strategy, while Swisslog’s systems will support inventory storage, material handling and distribution operations across the facility.

The automation solution will combine a high-density AutoStore system with pallet automation and Swisslog’s SynQ software platform.

The integrated setup is designed to manage both small components and palletised inventory within a coordinated material flow.

AutoStore will provide compact, high-density storage for MRO spare parts using modular bins and robots operating across the top of the storage grid to retrieve items.

The system is intended to improve space utilisation while supporting accurate and efficient handling of critical aviation components.

The pallet automation scope will include a pallet automated storage and retrieval system using Swisslog Vectura stacker cranes, alongside Swisslog ProMove pallet conveyors, a pallet shuttle car, inbound transport systems and picking stations.

Together, the technologies will connect receiving, inspection, storage and order fulfilment processes across the facility.

Logistics Infrastructure Designed for Future Growth

The combined programme will create a highly automated logistics infrastructure capable of supporting the storage and movement of aviation materials while providing additional capacity as operational requirements increase.

Alexander Komianos, Managing Director UAE & Solutions, Starlinks, said:

“Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in aviation, logistics and industrial capabilities. These developments require supply chains that can scale efficiently and support increasingly demanding operations. By combining our logistics expertise with proven automation technologies from Swisslog, we are delivering a robust foundation for long term growth and operational excellence.”

Rami Younes, General Manager, Swisslog Middle East, said:

“We are proud to support Starlinks on this important programme. The combination of AutoStore technology, pallet automation and SynQ software will help ensure high inventory availability, efficient use of space and reliable material flow. These capabilities are essential as aviation supply chains continue to grow in scale and complexity across the region. We look forward to more landmark collaborations with Starlinks.”

Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Aviation and Logistics Ambitions

The programme highlights the growing role of automation within aviation logistics as Saudi Arabia continues to invest in aviation, industrial and supply chain infrastructure.

By combining supply chain design, warehouse automation and inventory management technology, the project is intended to support the next phase of growth in the Kingdom’s aviation maintenance and logistics sector.