Bernie Baldwin discusses the global outlook for 2024 with SVP Operations at AJW Technique, Louis Mallette, in the latest issue of MRO Management magazine. 

The aviation industry is experiencing immense growth as vast numbers of the global fleet return to service, and with this comes the demand for aircraft maintenance. However, the ongoing shortage of materials and manpower continues to plague the industry and lengthen turnaround times. Material pricing has soared and affects leasing contracts, while part availability supply and demand are not in equilibrium and stakeholder are having to be creative with their part and component sourcing/inventory strategies.  

Mallette says, “The latest air travel outlook … predicts passenger traffic will reach 9.4 billion passengers globally this year,” but that while flight schedules will increase, and operator fleets will expand, the continued impact of labour shortages will continue to affect the MRO sector.  

“We are seeing growth in active fleets and a general increase in flying hours across all regions and expect component repair shops such as AJW Technique, to be operating at close to maximum capacity.” 

The AJW Technique SVP talks about narrowbody aircraft and the reduction in planned retirements resulting in prolonged flying hours for these older aircraft. As a result, there is additional repair work flowing into the AJWT workshops but also a reduced flow of surplus material reaching the market, and this is impacting industry recovery. 

Baldwin explores the use of 3D printing as a solution to the component supply issues, but this comes with immense challenges and is not currently viable, although this technology needs to be addressed and developed as the implications could have a mammoth impact on the aviation industry in the future. 

Mallette addresses his concerns about the immediate potential of 3D printing saying, “On the component side, 3D printing and additive manufacturing will have no real effect for the foreseeable future as we are required to use certified spare parts, typically purchased from the OEMs.” 

He suggests that over time, there will be an increase in less critical areas such as cabin components, however, for AJW’s core component MRO business, he does not see any short- to medium-term effect.  

The article lastly addresses the question of whether personnel numbers will meet demand in the coming months/years. The thought from most industry leaders is that demand cannot currently be met. What is the solution? Mallette believes it is a matter of upskilling and training current technicians and says, “We must focus on attracting new talent from technology-driven Gen-Z.”