Delta TechOps maintenance division—will perform maintenance, repair and overhaul services for Virgin Australia’s fleet of CFM56-7B engines through a 13-year exclusive agreement.

The new 13-year engine maintenance contract provides the opportunity for both carriers to collaborate on aircraft engineering, reliability and other maintenance-related activities.

“Delta TechOps provides a unique value proposition as the maintenance arm of the most reliable global U.S. airline,” said Don Mitacek, Delta Air Lines’ Senior Vice President – Technical Operations. “We wake up each morning with a passion to reduce turn-around time, lower engine overhaul costs and provide the highest quality product to our customers. We look forward to growing our relationship with Virgin Australia.”

“This new engine maintenance contract further deepens Virgin Australia’s strategic alliance with Delta Air Lines,” said Gary Hammes, Virgin Australia’s Chief Operating Officer.

“At Virgin Australia, we constantly challenge ourselves to think differently so we are pleased to be working with Delta TechOps who have a track record of innovation as they service one of the world’s most successful airlines”