News & Updates

BCT gains GCAA approval and secures contract with Etihad Cargo at EMA
April 27, 2026

Following its approval from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), BCT has been appointed as the line maintenance provider for Etihad Cargo, supporting its Boeing 777F freighter flights into East Midlands Airport (EMA), which is now the leading air freight airport in the UK.




BCT is proud to have been appointed as the line maintenance provider for Etihad Cargo, supporting its Boeing 777F freighter flights into East Midlands Airport (EMA).


Etihad Cargo launched its twice-weekly freighter services between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport and East Midlands Airport (EMA) last October, strengthening links between the UAE and the UK’s manufacturing and e-commerce sectors.


This latest approval authorises BCT to deliver comprehensive line maintenance support to Etihad Cargo’s scheduled freighter services into EMA, reinforcing the company’s expanding capability in supporting leading global cargo airlines. The addition of Etihad Cargo to BCT’s customer portfolio further cements the company’s position as one of the UK’s most respected providers of third-party line maintenance services.


Commented Megan McAleavy, Sales Manager:


“We are delighted to be entrusted by Etihad Cargo and to have secured GCAA approval to support their 777 freighter operations at East Midlands. Our appointment reflects the confidence global carriers place in BCT’s technical expertise, operational standards, and commitment to safety and reliability.”


BCT’s GCAA approval adds to a portfolio of international regulatory accreditations that include approvals from EASA and UK CAA. This multi-approval framework enables the company to provide seamless maintenance solutions to international operators flying into the UK, supported by an experienced team of certified aviation engineers and logistical specialists.

 

The advantages of GCAA approval for a line maintenance provider


GCAA approval gives a line maintenance provider like BCT the legal authority to support UAE‑registered aircraft, increases credibility with Gulf and global carriers, and opens up access to a strategically important growth market.


Regulatory and safety assurance


It confirms that BCT meets CAR‑145 requirements for facilities, procedures, and competence, so it can be formally approved to maintain aircraft and components. Operators can be reassured that BCT’s line maintenance is performed to a recognised UAE regulatory standard, directly supporting airworthiness and safety.


Commercial and market access benefits


GCAA approval is effectively a gatekeeper for working on UAE‑registered fleets, so it enables BCT to expand partnerships with other UAE and Gulf operators. For many operators and CAMOs, approval status is a key selection factor, so it strengthens the provider’s competitive position in tenders and RFQs.


Appealing to international operators


Adding GCAA to its approvals allows BCT to demonstrate a one‑stop solution for international operators flying into its stations. Multi‑regulator approval reduces complexity for airlines that operate mixed registries, simplifying oversight and contractual arrangements.


Operational flexibility and growth


Under GCAA’s Maintenance Organisation Review concepts, approved organisations can more efficiently extend scope or add line stations, which supports network growth. The approval encourages investment in trained engineers, tooling, and spares aligned with UAE operators’ needs, improving responsiveness and AOG support.

 

Brand reputation and partnership value


Being trusted by the GCAA signals strong quality systems and compliance culture, which enhances BCT’s reputation in the global cargo and business aviation communities. Airlines see an approved provider as a lower‑risk partner for long‑term line maintenance contracts, supporting stable utilisation and on‑time performance.