What You Need to Know About Aerospace Logistics
The aviation industry moves fast and runs on tight timelines. Aerospace logistics must follow suit, often requiring quick turnarounds on high-priority part deliveries. Customization is also crucial, heightening the challenge. Each shipping plan must be devised to meet specific space, quality maintenance and location requirements.
Aircraft engine and aircraft-on-ground (AOG) shipments rely on streamlined solutions. When planes or rotary aircraft are grounded for maintenance, logistics providers must step in to expedite engine and critical parts transport. And these deliveries don’t have the luxury of passing through traditional processes. Speed reigns supreme, which often requires resourceful transport solutions.
Shipping plans must be adaptable and strategic. Effective aerospace solutions take an omnichannel approach to deliver parts as efficiently as possible. Whether it’s an emergency AOG delivery or strategic transit of oversized aircraft parts, the right logistics provider helps
Four traits of top aerospace logistics providers
Successful aircraft-part transportation providers have a few key qualities in common. For the most effective shipping solutions, look for a company that excels in these areas:
Comprehensive supply chain solutions
Select an aerospace shipping partner with a diverse range of supply chain solutions. They should be able to handle services like emergency AOG shipments, engine transport, order replenishment, return shipments and more. Other essential services include expedited ground transport and versatile air services with next-flight-out options.
Industry expertise
Depending on your aerospace logistics needs, your provider should be compliant with several regulations and oversight bodies, including:
- Directorate of Defense Trade Controls
- Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
- International Traffic in Arms Regulation
- Hazardous materials (air, ocean and road)
Transportation flexibility
Rigidity is the enemy of aerospace logistics solutions — especially for emergency AOG deliveries. Providers must think outside the box and make use of all available resources. Look for an adaptable company with a widespread aerospace network and industry partners capable of accessing remote or hard-to-reach locations.
Additional support
Communication and transparency are musts when it comes to the right logistics provider for your organization. Companies that prioritize frequent contact and status updates give you peace of mind and confidence that your shipments are on track. Other aspects of customer support to look for include EDI connectivity, control tower services, real-time tracking and customs clearance.
How can AIT help me with aerospace logistics?
AIT’s years of aerospace logistics experience and extensive global network enable us to quickly transport aircraft engines, helicopter blades and other valuable parts for our aviation industry customers.
Our end-to-end supply chain services, 24/7 monitoring, specialized equipment access and industry-leading customer communication not only help get aircraft flying as soon as possible, but they’ve also made us one of the world’s most trusted aerospace and AOG shipping partners.