This article reports on the collaborative efforts by the International Airlines Technical Pool (IATP) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to address critical supply chain and maintenance challenges facing the aviation industry.
During a recent conference in Malta, industry leaders highlighted that global air traffic has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, leading to increased demand for maintenance services. However, geopolitical factors, alongside shortages of engines, parts, and skilled technicians, continue to create operational risks for airlines, which are operating aircraft longer and experiencing extended turnaround times.
Giorgio Pietra, CEO of IATP, explained that these constraints have resulted in unprecedented demand for aircraft maintenance. To mitigate these issues, IATA is working towards expanding the aftermarket, increasing part capacity, and implementing accreditation schemes to prevent counterfeit parts from entering the supply chain.
"Supply chain disruptions cost the industry approximately $11.3 billion in 2025," said Stuart Fox, IATA’s director of flight and technical operations. "Our strategy includes improving parts forecasting, expanding certified parts options, and introducing safer, alternative components into the market."lockquote>Developed through workshops held in Dublin and other locations, the strategic plan emphasizes opening the aftermarket, enhancing material capacity, and improving forecasting processes. These efforts aim to reduce backlog, stabilize supply chains, and lower operational costs. Keith Mwanalushi, an aviation journalist, notes that these initiatives reflect a unified industry approach to support airline resilience and recovery in a challenging environment.
