The aviation industry is taking a united stance against unauthorised parts entering the supply chain, with the formation of the Aviation Supply Chain Integrity Coalition, Safran announced. This collaborative effort, involving major airframers, engine suppliers, and other stakeholders, aims to strengthen overall supply chain integrity and prevent future incidents like the AOG Technics scandal.
The coalition, established by industry leaders from the US and Europe, includes representatives from Airbus, Boeing, major airlines, and engine manufacturers like GE and Safran. Former aviation safety officials Robert Sumwalt and John Porcari serve as co-chairs.
This initiative arises from the need to address vulnerabilities exposed by the AOG Technics case, where unauthorised parts with forged documents were found in the supply chain. While the incident ultimately affected less than 1% of CFM engines and primarily involved non-critical components, the coalition emphasizes the importance of long-term preventative measures.
“We were able to stop a rogue actor last year,” said co-chair Robert Sumwalt, “but more is needed to prevent future attempts at compromising safety.”
The coalition has commenced a 90-day review to examine existing supply chain operations and identify areas for improvement. This comprehensive analysis will culminate in a report outlining recommendations to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent the introduction of unapproved parts.
By bringing together diverse stakeholders across the industry, from manufacturers and airlines to maintenance providers, the coalition strives to achieve a holistic approach to safeguarding the aviation supply chain. This collaborative effort is expected to yield a report with actionable recommendations later this year.
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