AOG and Rapid Parts Repair and Delivery
In the aviation industry,the term AOG (Aircraft on Ground) represents one of the mostcostly and concerning situations anyoperator or fleet owner may face.
AOG refers to a condition in which an aircraft is grounded due to a technical fault or lack of a required part. This condition not only disrupts flight schedules
but also causes significant financial losses due to lost revenue opportunities, passenger relocation expenses, and even damage to the airline’s reputation. In
such cases, the repair and rapid delivery of parts becomes a critical priority for returning the aircraft to service.
Why is Fast Parts Delivery So Important During AOG?
According to international estimates,each hour of an aircraft being grounded can cost an airline between $10,000to$20,000.This figure includes direct costs
(such
as unused fuel and personnel) and indirect costs (such as loss of business credibility , compensation to passengers , and disruption to the flight network).
Therefore, the timely repair and delivery of replacement parts is key to shortening AOG time . If a faulty part cannot be quickly repaired or replaced , the
aircraft will remain grounded longer, potentially disrupting a chain of subsequent flights.
Main Challenges in Fast Parts Delivery
Complex supply chain: Aircraft parts are often sourced from manufacturers across different parts of the world . Immediate shipment of these parts to
where they are needed—especially if customs clearance or special permits are required—can be time-consuming.
Limited inventory of key parts: Due to the high value of aircraft parts , companies often keep inventory levels to a minimum . While lean inventory may
be financially beneficial, it can cause problems during AOG.
Time-consuming specialized repairs: Some parts require precision repairs at certified MRO centers, and the time needed for these repairs can be
extremely critical in an AOG situation.
Logistical issues: Rapid transport of heavy or sensitive components (regarding temperature or impact) requires complex infrastructure.
Key Solutions for Fast Parts Delivery During AOG
Exclusive contracts with MRO centers: Airlines can sign special contracts to receive higher repair priority during emergencies. Some MROs even operate
dedicated AOG lines that handle repairs with special urgency.
Strategic parts warehouses: Many airlines or parts suppliers (Parts Pool Providers) maintain storage facilities at major airports to keep critical and high
-demand parts close to aircraft.
Smart logistics: Using real-time tracking systems,direct coordination with logistics companies,and even charter flights forurgent shipments can significantly
reduce delivery time.
Exchange programs: In this approach, a ready and functional part is immediately installed on the aircraft, and the faulty part is later sent for repair . This
method directly reduces the return-to-service time.
Digital technologies and predictive analytics: Using operational data to predict part failures (Predictive Maintenance) allows for parts to be replaced or
repaired before a critical failure occurs, preventing AOG situations.
Benefits of Implementing These Solutions
By employing these strategies, airlines can:
Minimize downtime and avoid direct financial losses.
Maintain passenger and cargo customer trust through schedule reliability.
Reduce indirect costs associated with leasing replacement aircraft or adjusting flight plans.
Keep the fleet in optimal operating condition, which extends the life of high-value assets.
Conclusion
Ultimately, AOG and rapid parts repair and delivery are no longer a luxury for airlines—they are a necessity for survival and competitiveness in the fast-paced
aviation industry. The future of this field lies in digitalization, expanded regional warehousing, and advanced logistics networks. Companies that invest in this
direction today will be more successful in the global aviation market tomorrow.
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