Maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) are crucial in the aviation industry. To ensure the safety and effectiveness of flights, the intricate machinery used in the aviation sector needs to be precisely and promptly maintained.
However, it has been difficult to achieve cost-effective MRO in the aviation industry, so adopting agile and integrated procurement techniques can help the aviation sector achieve cost-effective MRO, some say.
Historically, the aviation industry has grappled with fragmented MRO procurement processes, limited access to spare parts and a tendency to rely on long-established supplier relationships.
While trust in suppliers is essential, it can sometimes lead to inefficiencies, inflated costs and a lack of access to a diverse range of spare parts.
Organisations must have access to numerous channels that offer up-to-the-minute information on the current availability of spare parts in various circumstances in order to achieve balance in aviation MRO.
This highlights the requirement for a central system that collects data from diverse sources. Aviation MRO experts can swiftly determine which replacement parts are in stock, their condition and their pricing using a single, unified dashboard.
Toma Matutyte, CEO of Locatory, said: “Better decisions can be made because of this real-time visibility, which also reduces aircraft downtime and improves inventory control.”
Using an AI engine, low-cost carrier easyJet integrated Aerogility on top of its current MRO management and transactional systems. This allowed the airline to analyse its MRO data and make maintenance choices better and more quickly.
Further, success in aviation depends on having quick access to MRO procurement resources. The quick-paced nature of the sector necessitates a streamlined procurement procedure.
The adaptability of aircraft MRO teams is increased through agile procurement platforms with user-friendly interfaces, effective search tools and smooth order processing.
This translates into quicker response times, shorter lead times for purchasing spare components, and increased operational agility all around. Easy access equates to higher efficiency in a field where time is of the essence.
According to the 2020 In(Sight) Report from WorkMarket, 53 per cent of workers believe automation may free up to two work hours per day (240 hours per year) and 78 per cent of corporate executives believe it can free up to three work hours per day (360 hours per year).
In addition, the aviation sector frequently has long-standing connections with reliable suppliers. While maintaining these partnerships is critical, it is also crucial to regularly assess the costs and quality of suppliers.
Periodically, aviation MROs must evaluate the market, compare costs and look into alternative suppliers. Without sacrificing the calibre and safety of aviation operations, encouraging competition can result in significant cost reductions.
Matutyte said: “Aviation MROs should make sure they are getting the best value for their procurement budget by expanding their supplier base and encouraging competitive bidding.”
The aviation industry’s struggles with cost-effective MRO can be overcome with the use of agile and integrated procurement strategies.
The efficiency of MRO, cost savings, and overall competitiveness may all be improved for aviation firms by implementing a comprehensive strategy that takes into account these three insights.
Professionals in aviation MRO can quickly make informed decisions thanks to integrated procurement solutions, which provide a single platform where information flows without interruption.
These platforms also make it easier for teams and departments to work together, expediting the entire MRO process and promoting safer and more economical aircraft operations.
Cost-effective MRO in the aviation sector is not just necessary for safety and profitability but is also a goal. Aviation firms should make sure that their MRO operations are not only effective but also in accordance with the high standards of the sector by adopting agile and integrated procurement strategies that place a priority on thorough information, quick access and cost-conscious supplier management.
When it comes to achieving cost-effective MRO in aviation, the sky is the limit, and agile procurement is the game plan to get there.
