MRO Management: Stephen Dixon highlights the component MRO sector

Stephen Dixon, Repairs Executive at EirTrade Aviation, spoke to Bernie Baldwin about component repair in the November/December issue of MRO Management.

“The component repair industry has increased substantially over the past couple of years. At the moment, it is busier than ever and shows no signs of slowing down,” says Dixon. “This is because the desire for travel is at an all-time high and is increasing rapidly in all regions, meaning the need for component repairs on both aircraft and engine parts is affecting all model types.”

Despite its growth, the sector still faces challenges. Staff shortages persist due to a “drainage of knowledge” during the COVID period, whilst the war in Ukraine and subsequent trade restrictions with Russia have impacted the supply chain of raw materials. Additionally, the adaptation to newer aircraft and engine types takes up considerable resources, whilst the traditional MRO workload is only reducing slightly, which is resulting in longer TATs and higher MRO costs.”

However, the sector can reap benefits from new technologies in the near future. “3D printing, new carbon fibre repairs, and new coatings have changed and even replaced traditional repair methods,” Dixon shares. “Also, the surge in AI-based predictive maintenance has the potential to improve scheduling of MRO activities and supply chain requirements, which will lead to shorter TATs, lower stock levels and, hopefully, lower maintenance costs.”

Read the full article here.

Article courtesy of MRO Management.