National Aero Stands (NAS)

In the highly specialized world of aviation, where precision and reliability are paramount, National Aero Stands (NAS) has established itself as a trusted leader in the Aircraft Engine Transportation Stands (AETS) space.

In 2016, National Aero Stands purchased Stands on Demand (founded in 2010) and grew rapidly by addressing a critical industry need: providing flexible, cost-effective access to high-quality engine transportation stands. Today, NAS supports airlines, MROs, and engine leasing companies worldwide, offering innovative solutions that eliminate the complexities of engine stand ownership.

NAS was born from a simple but powerful realization: the aviation industry needed a partner solely dedicated to engine stand leasing. While some companies offered stands as part of a broader range of services, none had truly specialized in meeting this specific need.

“Our founder saw an opportunity to fill that gap by creating a company that not only provided well-maintained equipment but also offered expert technical support and comprehensive services,” says Gail Holguin, COO of National Aero Stands. “That vision has driven our company’s success over the past decade, allowing us to grow from a small operation into an industry leader with a global presence.”

Offering Tailored Solutions

A key factor in NAS’s success is its ability to provide tailored, customer-centric solutions. Unlike companies that focus solely on selling equipment, NAS offers a leasing model that is both flexible and cost-efficient.

For airlines, MROs, and engine leasing companies, this approach eliminates the need for significant capital expenditures and reduces the operational burdens of owning engine stands. Instead of dealing with storage, maintenance, or asset depreciation, customers can simply lease the equipment they need, exactly when they need it.

This leasing model is particularly valuable in an industry where demand fluctuates due to seasonal changes, fleet adjustments, or unforeseen challenges. NAS ensures its clients have access to the right equipment at the right time, allowing them to scale their operations seamlessly. By sourcing engine stands exclusively from trusted manufacturers, the company guarantees that every piece of equipment meets rigorous industry standards for safety and performance.

In addition to engine stands, NAS provides a comprehensive range of maintenance accessories, including bootstrap kits, tooling, transfer beams, and slings. The company also operates a full-service maintenance facility, offering repairs and refurbishments to keep all equipment in peak condition. This end-to-end support allows clients to focus on their core operations while NAS takes care of the details.

Staying Ahead of Industry Trends

The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and NAS has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to its changing demands. A standout example of this adaptability was the company’s response to the challenges associated with Pratt & Whitney’s GTF (Geared Turbofan) engines. These engines, while innovative, experienced significant operational and maintenance issues early in their lifecycle. As airlines and MROs scrambled to manage increased engine removals and repair cycles, demand for GTF transportation stands surged.

Recognizing this trend early, NAS took decisive action to ensure it could meet the growing demand. The company placed large orders with OEM-approved manufacturers, securing a steady supply of GTF stands and positioning itself as a reliable partner for its customers during a critical time.

This proactive approach not only cemented NAS’s reputation as an industry leader but also underscored its commitment to anticipating and addressing customer needs.

A Global Network for Global Clients

One of NAS’s defining strengths is its ability to serve customers worldwide. The company has established a robust global network, with strategically located inventory in the United States, the Netherlands, Dubai, Shanghai, and Singapore. This geographical reach allows NAS to deliver engine stands quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime for its clients.

“Whether it’s an airline in Asia, an MRO in Europe, or a leasing company in North America, we have the infrastructure to provide reliable support wherever it’s needed,” says Holguin.

Building this global network required more than logistical expertise—it also required a deep understanding of the aviation industry’s complexities. NAS has invested heavily in forging strong relationships with manufacturers and logistics providers, ensuring its operations run smoothly and its customers receive consistent, high-quality service.

The Human Element

Behind NAS’s technical capabilities is a team of dedicated professionals who bring decades of experience to the table. Holguin, a veteran of the aviation industry with 30 years of experience, has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s success. Her approach is rooted in a simple principle: know your customer.

By understanding clients’ fleets, maintenance locations, and specific requirements, she and her team have built a solutions portfolio that truly meets the needs of the industry.

Holguin emphasizes the importance of continuous evaluation and improvement: “Regular meetings with the operations team, combined with insights from NAS’s utilization report system, help ensure that our processes remain efficient and aligned with safety standards. This commitment to excellence has enabled us to grow our inventory to over 300 engine stands while maintaining the highest levels of quality and reliability.”

A Decade of Innovation and Growth

As NAS celebrates its 10th anniversary, it’s worth reflecting on how far the company has come. From its beginnings as a small startup with a bold idea, NAS has grown into a global leader, setting the standard for engine stand leasing in the aviation industry.

The company’s success is a testament to its ability to balance innovation with practicality. By staying ahead of industry trends, investing in its global network, and maintaining a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, NAS has positioned itself as a trusted partner for some of the biggest names in aviation.

What sets NAS apart is not just its technical expertise or impressive inventory—it’s the people behind the company and their commitment to excellence. As NAS looks ahead to its next decade, one thing is clear: the company will continue to set the gold standard for engine stand leasing, supporting the aviation industry with the same passion and innovation that have defined its first nine years.