At Locatory.com, we are proud to be the premier online marketplace and comprehensive hub for the aerospace industry, connecting businesses with critical aviation services and suppliers. Among our valued partners, JOB AIR Technic stands out as a leading provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.

Based at Ostrava International Airport in the Czech Republic, JOB AIR Technic a. s. is a trusted name in the European MRO landscape, with certifications from both EASA and FAA as a Part 145 approved maintenance organization. Their impressive capabilities allow them to provide a full range of MRO services to commercial airlines and aircraft lessors, including a Part 147 training center for hands-on technician training. With a reputation for quality, efficiency, and expertise, JOB AIR Technic is a fitting partner for Locatory.com, enabling us to bring even more further value for our clients.

With eight spacious maintenance bays and a highly skilled team, JOB AIR Technic is equipped to provide maintenance and repair services for a wide range of aircraft. Their capabilities span both Boeing and Airbus fleets. JOB AIR Technic offers a full lifecycle MRO support package, including base and line maintenance, component shops, and additional services such as aircraft painting, parking, and a state-of-the-art 147 training center for technicians. This comprehensive approach to MRO ensures that customers have all essential services in one location, reducing downtime and providing valuable time savings.

At Locatory.com, our goal is to provide an integrated marketplace where aviation industry professionals can access the resources they need to keep their fleets in peak operating condition. Our partnership with JOB AIR amplifies this mission, making it easy for airlines, lessors, and maintenance providers to get truly reliable, certified MRO services.

We are sure that our collaboration with JOB AIR Technic is a perfect example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships in the aviation sector. Together, we are creating a streamlined, efficient, and reliable ecosystem for aviation professionals to access the resources, services, and support they need.

We are excited to continue this journey together, leveraging our combined strengths to meet the evolving needs of the global aerospace sector. With JOB AIR Technics’ MRO capabilities and Locatory.com’s role as the go-to marketplace, this partnership represents a significant step forward in making aviation maintenance more accessible, efficient, and reliable for airlines and lessors worldwide.

Every time a commercial jet takes off, it embarks on a journey engineered for precision and safety. Passengers may marvel at the seamless experience of air travel, but few consider the incredible behind-the-scenes orchestration that keeps these marvels of engineering in the sky. From the rapid turnaround of a plane between flights to the deep, meticulous inspections that can take weeks, the process of commercial aircraft maintenance is a remarkable feat of human expertise, technology, and logistics.

What’s even more fascinating is the scale at which this operation happens – across the globe, thousands of aircraft are undergoing daily checks, repairs, and part replacements, all adhering to the current regulatory standards – as well as these set by plane operators. And most of those involved, would day that, in fact, aircraft maintenance isn’t glamorous. It’s not shiny. It is, in fact, a grind of checks, re-checks, tearing down, rebuilding, fixing parts, and hunting for ones that are so rare you would think they were buried treasure. Yet today, thanks to advancements in maintenance technology and access to global parts marketplaces like Locatory.com, aircraft maintenance is evolving into a more streamlined and efficient process.

So, let’s explore the world of commercial aircraft maintenance, breaking down the different types of checks, the cutting-edge technologies reshaping the industry, and how a reliable parts supply chain makes all the difference in keeping planes flying.

Advanced Technology in Aircraft Maintenance

Historically, major advancements in this field have dramatically transformed how we keep aircraft in the skies, reflecting broader changes in technology and engineering. In the early days of aviation, maintenance was a manual, labor-intensive process. The first commercial aircraft, like the biplanes of the 1920s, required routine checks that were done by hand. Mechanics would carefully inspect every part of the aircraft, often using rudimentary tools and relying heavily on their expertise and intuition. There were no sophisticated diagnostic tools – just eyes, ears, and a lot of grease.

The post-World War II era marked a significant shift. The introduction of jet engines and more complex aircraft systems required more structured maintenance processes. The 1950s and 1960s saw the advent of standardized maintenance checks and scheduled overhauls. Aircraft maintenance became more systematic, with the development of detailed inspection procedures and maintenance schedules. The growth of commercial aviation during this time necessitated the development of tougher maintenance practices to handle the increased volume and complexity of aircraft.

The 1980s brought about another revolution with the advent of computerized diagnostic systems. These systems allowed for more precise monitoring of aircraft systems. Rather than waiting for a part to fail, technicians could now use data to anticipate issues before they occurred. And the turn of the 21st century further accelerated advancements with the introduction of the most advanced aircraft any maintenance facility can get today. Such planes as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 are equipped with sophisticated onboard sensors that continuously collect data from every aspect of the aircraft. This data, in turn, enable airlines and MROs to implement proactive maintenance strategies, addressing potential issues before they lead to operational disruptions.

Today, advanced technology in aircraft maintenance is not just about better tools but about a more integrated approach to aircraft health management. Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) software systems provide a comprehensive view of an aircraft’s condition, helping with the established processes and improve decision-making.

Types of Aircraft Maintenance

Presently, commercial aircraft maintenance can be divided into two main categories: line maintenance and base maintenance. Each type serves a different purpose and is performed at different intervals.

Line maintenance is the day-to-day work of aircraft upkeep. It involves routine checks and minor repairs that are performed while the aircraft is still in service. These are the quick, efficient inspections done between flights, sometimes in as little as a couple of hours, to ensure the plane is ready for its next journey. Tasks include checking tire pressure, refueling, topping off fluids, inspecting for visible damage, and swapping out smaller parts that may show wear and tear. The goal of line maintenance is to keep the aircraft operational without interrupting its schedule. It’s like giving the plane a quick health check before it heads back into the skies. This type of maintenance ensures that small issues are dealt with before they become big problems.

On the other hand, base maintenance is where things get more in-depth. These are the heavier inspections and repairs that require the aircraft to be taken out of service for a longer period, typically days or even weeks. While line maintenance is performed at or near the airport gate, base maintenance takes place in specialized facilities with the equipment and tools necessary to handle major overhauls. This type of maintenance goes beyond surface-level inspections. It includes tasks such as deep structural inspections, avionics upgrades, extensive component testing, and even full engine overhauls. Base maintenance is a significant undertaking, but it’s crucial for keeping an aircraft in peak condition over its operational lifespan.

The importance of both types of maintenance cannot be overstated. While line maintenance keeps the aircraft in the air in the short term, base maintenance addresses the long-term health of the plane, ensuring that it can safely fly for decades. Together, these maintenance processes form the backbone of aviation safety, making sure every component is thoroughly checked, serviced, and replaced when necessary. Without this rigorous attention to detail, the entire commercial aviation industry would grind to a halt. Whether it’s the quick fixes between flights or the intensive deep dives that take weeks, the success of any flight hinges on the seamless execution of these maintenance protocols.

The Maintenance Check System

Aircraft maintenance follows a structured system of checks, each of which is performed at specific intervals based on flight hours or calendar time. The most common types of checks include:

• A-Check: Conducted every 400-600 flight hours, A-checks are light, routine inspections that can be performed overnight. Technicians examine the landing gear, brakes, fluid levels, and electrical systems.
• B-Check: These checks are less frequent, performed about every 6-8 months. B-checks involve deeper inspections and may require the aircraft to be taken out of service for one to three days.
• C-Check: Performed every 18-24 months or after a specified number of flight hours, C-checks are extensive and require grounding the aircraft for up to two weeks. Technicians inspect nearly every part of the aircraft, including the fuselage, avionics, and engine systems. Repairs or replacements are made if necessary.
• D-Check (Heavy Maintenance Visit): The D-check is the most thorough inspection, performed about every 6-10 years. This check involves completely disassembling the aircraft for a detailed examination of every component. D-checks are complex and expensive, taking several weeks to complete.

The Role of Aircraft Parts Supply

One of the biggest challenges in maintaining commercial aircraft is the availability of parts. Some components are readily available, while others, especially for older aircraft models, are hard to find. Here, aviation spare parts marketplaces like Locatory.com play a crucial role in sourcing and delivering parts on time, minimizing delays in the maintenance process.

Aircraft maintenance inspections, like the A-checks and C-checks, require a wide range of new parts and components to keep an aircraft airworthy. For instance, a C-check can require anywhere between 200 to more than 1,000 parts. Given the volume and diversity of parts needed, access to a well-stocked marketplace is critical to avoid delays in the maintenance process.

While a C-check is extensive, A-checks can demand approximately from 20 to 100 different parts per inspection. As mentioned before, these parts often include simpler components like oil filters, hydraulic fluids, and minor electrical components. Even though the number of parts required is smaller compared to a C-check, the need for quick availability is paramount. The shorter downtime associated with A-checks means that even a delay in sourcing a minor part can become much larger operational disruption. A marketplace like Locatory.com provides a vital platform for quickly sourcing these components, helping MROs keep aircraft on schedule and operators to smoothly get it in the air.

Cost-Efficiency and Reduced Downtime

Aircraft parts marketplaces bridge the gap between suppliers and buyers, offering immediate access to a global inventory. This connectivity is particularly crucial for maintenance providers conducting both C-checks and A-checks. During a C-check, the ability to access thousands of parts from multiple suppliers in a single, centralized platform saves time and effort. For example, if a rare avionics part or a specific landing gear component is needed, a marketplace enables MROs to source it from anywhere in the world, avoiding costly delays. As Toma Matutytė, CEO of Locatory.com, puts it, “Our marketplace connects buyers with suppliers in real-time, enabling quick access to essential parts and reducing the stress of unexpected maintenance needs. It’s about turning what used to be a headache into a seamless, efficient process.”

Using a marketplace also means significant cost savings. Instead of maintaining a large, costly inventory of rarely-used parts, MROs and airlines can adopt a more just-in-time approach, leveraging the marketplace to quickly purchase components only when needed. For a C-check, where over tens of hundreds parts may be required, a marketplace allows MROs to order precisely what they need without overstocking, thus optimizing inventory costs. Similarly, when a quick fix is needed for an A-check, the ability to quickly locate and purchase the right part ensures that aircraft are back in the air with minimal delay, reducing potential losses associated with downtime.

Expanding Access to Hard-to-Find Parts

Beyond cost and time efficiency, marketplaces are essential for accessing hard-to-find parts, a critical advantage during comprehensive checks like the C-check. For older aircraft models or when OEM production is limited, certain components can become scarce. A marketplace provides visibility into suppliers who have these parts in stock, helping MROs avoid the frustration of long lead times. This broad network ensures that even during high-demand maintenance periods, such as a C-check involving major structural repairs or updates, maintenance teams can find the parts they need without compromising timelines. As Toma Matutytė notes, “With our marketplace, we’re helping the aviation industry to navigate the complexity of maintenance with confidence, ensuring that every part is just a few clicks away.”

Access to an efficient parts supply chain is crucial for avoiding Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations, where an aircraft is grounded due to parts unavailability. As an aircraft parts marketplace, Locatory.com helps airlines, MROs, and lessors access hard-to-find parts and critical components quickly.

The Human Element

While technology plays a huge role in aircraft maintenance, the expertise and experience of aviation technicians cannot be overlooked. Licensed engineers, mechanics, and technicians must undergo rigorous training and certification to work on commercial aircraft. Their attention to detail and technical expertise ensure that every maintenance task is completed safely and accurately.

Aircraft maintenance is a highly complex and regulated process that requires precise coordination, advanced technology, and a reliable parts supply chain. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, so will the methods and tools used to maintain commercial fleets. At Locatory.com, we are proud to support this vital industry by providing efficient solutions to the challenges of sourcing hard-to-find aircraft parts, ensuring that commercial aircraft stay in the skies – the way it should.

For suppliers in the aviation industry, showcasing inventory effectively is critical to staying competitive in a global market. Locatory.com’s Public Catalog is designed to help sellers make their stock instantly visible to anyone searching online for aircraft spare parts, whether they are Locatory.com users or not.

And now, Locatory.com has introduced the next-generation Public Search 2.0, a powerful tool designed to enhance the online presence of Premium companies and Public Catalog users in the aviation marketplace. This upgrade ensures that sellers can effectively showcase their inventory and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities to a broader audience, including non-subscribers of the platform.

For sellers, this feature provides a seamless way to adapt to evolving market dynamics. It not only increases visibility but also enhances credibility, as buyers can see detailed information about available stock, including photos, part conditions, and supplier details. Furthermore, sellers benefit from integrated tools that enable efficient inventory management and allow updates to be reflected instantly in the public-facing catalog​.

Even More Benefits for Public Catalog Users

Public Search 2.0 enables users to search across all categories, offering comprehensive access to parts and services. This ensures that suppliers can make their full inventory discoverable, catering to the diverse needs of the aviation market, from aircraft parts to aviation consumables. The tool’s configurability gives companies using the Public Catalog—available to Pro and Premium subscribers—the ability to control what information is visible. Sellers can choose to display their company name, provide a link to their public catalog, share pricing details, and enable preferred RFQ (Request for Quotation) collection options. This level of customization allows suppliers to manage their public presence strategically while attracting valid inquiries from potential buyers.

A standout feature of Public Search 2.0 is its SEO-optimized product pages, which ensure that every listed part is easily discoverable via search engines like Google. By making products searchable online, sellers can reach buyers conducting specific searches for aviation parts, even if they are not familiar with Locatory.com. This optimization significantly broadens the potential audience for suppliers, making it easier to connect with new clients and drive sales.

Supplementary Product Information and More Advanced Features

Additionally, Public Search 2.0 enriches product listings with detailed supplementary data such as NIIN (National Item Identification Numbers), FSC (Federal Supply Classification) codes, CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) codes, and manufacturer information. These details are critical for enabling informed purchasing decisions, especially in a highly regulated industry like aviation. Buyers gain confidence in the transparency and reliability of the listed parts, thus fostering the much-needed trust in such business relations.

By combining advanced search capabilities, SEO-friendly features, and flexible visibility options, Public Search 2.0 positions Locatory.com sellers to succeed in an increasingly competitive and digitalized market. The tool not only increases the discoverability of listed inventories but also strengthens sellers’ ability to engage with a global audience, making it a vital resource for aviation suppliers aiming to expand their reach and boost sales. If you’re ready to elevate your business’s visibility, Public Search 2.0 is the perfect solution. Explore its capabilities today to start maximizing your inventory’s potential.

This autumn, aviation spare parts market overview offers intriguing insights, as highlighted by Locatory.com’s lists of the Top 50 Most-Searched and Top 50 Hard-to-Find Parts. These lists serve as a barometer of the industry’s evolving demands, providing a detailed snapshot of maintenance needs and component availability trends.

The Top 50 Most-Searched Parts list for the month of October reveals a strong focus on key aircraft systems. For instance, components related to cockpit and safety systems, such as the Microphone Control Unit, Panel Voice Recorder, and CVR Control Unit, highlight the continued emphasis on flight operation and crew communication systems. Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) components, including those for Honeywell’s MKV-A model, also made it to the list this time.

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Another notable trend is the rising demand for engine and flight control system parts. For example, the inclusion of the LPTACC Valve for CFM56-7B engines and the Oil Pressure Sensor (APTE8A20007BARD) for aircraft using similar powertrains illustrates the critical role of monitoring and regulating engine performance. Additionally, components like the Stab Trim Module and Linear Actuator highlight the importance of precise control mechanisms in modern aviation.

Safety Systems in Focus

The list and our market overview also tends to showcase the industry’s focus on cabin and passenger safety systems. Items such as the Cabin Temperature Service Module, which ensures optimal onboard conditions, and the Aircraft Water Fire Extinguisher, which is crucial for emergency preparedness, emphasize the dual priorities of comfort and safety.

Structural components like the Leading Edge Assemblies (85720305-003 and 85720304-05) cater to aerodynamic performance and structural integrity, essential for maintaining fuel efficiency and safety standards. Meanwhile, demand for hydraulic and environmental system components—such as the Thermal Bypass Valve for Boeing aircraft and the Rotary Actuator (APU Door or Inlet Door Actuator)—underscores the focus on operational reliability in critical systems.

On the other hand, the Top 50 Hard-to-Find Parts list paints a picture of the challenges faced by airlines and MRO providers in sourcing essential components. This includes engine-driven hydraulic pumps, such as the PV3-240-18, and air system parts like the Control Unit for Air Cycle Machines (87804124-007). These items highlight ongoing supply chain bottlenecks and the necessity for platforms like Locatory.com to bridge sourcing gaps. Notably, diagnostic tools such as the Accelerometer (8-800-40-001) are gaining prominence.

For Both Routine Maintenance and Unscheduled Repairs

Further reinforcing this point is the inclusion of structural components like the Leading Edge Assemblies for Bombardier aircraft, which are critical for maintaining operational standards in aging fleets. The demand for safety-related systems, such as the Shut-Off Valve (67-2906-002) for Boeing aircraft pneumatic systems, reflects the continued importance of preserving environmental system functionality.

Across both lists, the demand for components tailored to specific aircraft models and systems is evident. For example, the Ignition Exciter (CH92043-3) for Pratt & Whitney PW150 engines and the Engine Oil Cooler Bypass Valve for Dash 8 engines highlight the need for specialized parts in powertrain maintenance. Moreover, items like the ILS/GPS Multi-Mode Receiver and FCC-730 Flight Control Computer (822-1604-101) demonstrate the increasing complexity of maintaining the avionics in modern fleets.

Overall, Locatory.com’s data reveals a market shaped by diverse needs: maintaining operational safety, addressing the challenges of aging fleets, and responding to supply chain disruptions. The lists provide a detailed view of how industry players prioritize components essential for safe, efficient, and reliable operations and that is what we want to focus on in this market overview. They also show us the importance of innovative solutions, such as continuous investment in the development of digital marketplaces, in meeting these challenges. By facilitating access to both common and rare parts, Locatory.com supports the aviation industry’s efforts to navigate an increasingly complex environment.

Locatory.com is pleased to have continuous collaboration with APACS, a leading provider of MRO services in the Asia Pacific region. This partnership strengthens Locatory.com’s commitment to delivering comprehensive, high-quality solutions to the aviation industry, offering our clients access to APACS’s top-tier expertise in aircraft maintenance and repair services. Together, we aim to enhance operational efficiency and reliability for our customers, reaffirming our dedication to serving the evolving needs of the aviation sector.

ABOUT APACS

A Legacy of Excellence in MRO Services

Behind the sleek operation of modern aircraft is a world of expertise, precision, and innovation — an APACS (formerly SR Technics Malaysia Sdn Bhd) is at the heart of it. As a joint venture between SIA Engineering Company and SR Technics Switzerland, APACS merges the technical expertise of two global leaders in the MRO industry. This collaboration provides us with an unrivaled foundation of knowledge and experience, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of aircraft maintenance and repair services.

Our vision is to be the component MRO provider of choice for airlines and aerospace companies across the Asia Pacific region. We pride ourselves on understanding the intricate needs of our customers, delivering solutions that not only maintain but enhance operational efficiency. APACS‘ builds its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction on a deep understanding of aviation challenges and our ability to provide reliable, high-quality services.

With the aviation industry in Asia Pacific growing rapidly, APACS is well-positioned to support the evolving needs of our clients, providing services that deliver both economic and experiential value. Our reputation as a trusted partner ensures that we are ready to meet these challenges head-on, providing solutions that keep the industry flying smoothly.

Comprehensive Component Repair and Tailored Solutions

At APACS, we specialize in a broad range of component repairs. Our offers include tailored solutions that are both reliable and cost-effective. Our capabilities extend across engine components, avionics, airframes, and interior systems. We work on some of the industry’s most prominent aircraft. This includes Airbus A320, A330, Boeing 737, and 747. We proudly ensure the maintenance of their components operational performance.

What sets APACS apart is our deep partnership with leading OEMs, including Airbus, Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, and CFM International. These collaborations enable us to access cutting-edge technology and ensure that all repairs meet OEM standards. Whether it’s the CFM56 or PW4000 engines, our clients can trust that their aircraft are in expert hands, benefiting from the highest level of precision and expertise available in the industry.

We know that downtime is costly in the aviation sector, which is why APACS also offers advanced exchange options during critical situations. Our exchange programs ensure immediate component availability, especially in Aircraft on Ground (AOG) scenarios. This allows us to deliver quick solutions and keep our customers’ operations moving with minimal disruption.

State-of-the-Art Facilities and a Customer-First Approach

APACS operates out of a 90,000-square-foot facility located in Shah Alam, Malaysia. Our facility is equipped with the latest hydraulic, pneumatic, and fuel test stands, allowing us to offer comprehensive repair services. Whether it’s for routine maintenance or complex repairs, we are here. Our team of skilled engineers and technicians will handle every challenge with precision and care.

At the core of our operations is a customer-centric philosophy. We are committed to delivering short turnaround times without compromising on quality. This means that airlines and aerospace companies can rely on APACS for a timely and efficient service, reducing the downtime of their aircraft and ensuring uninterrupted operations.

As the Asia Pacific region continues to see growth in the air transport and logistics sectors, APACS remains steadfast in our commitment to meeting the demands of our customers. We are not just providing MRO services; we are creating long-term partnerships built on trust, reliability, and superior service quality.

Enhancing Capabilities for 2024

In line with our mission of continuous improvement, APACS is excited to announce the addition of ADIRU (Air Data Inertial Reference Unit) services, which will be fully operational by December. This new addition broadens our service portfolio and enhances our ability to offer comprehensive support across multiple component categories. As we further expand our capabilities, APACS remains dedicated to delivering top-tier solutions that meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry.