New Aviation Industry Report Urges Action to Prevent Unapproved Parts in Supply Chain
WASHINGTON—A report issued by the Aviation Supply Chain Integrity Coalition today outlined new measures to prevent unapproved parts from entering the aviation supply chain. The coalition, formed in February, called for enhanced vendor accreditation, digitized documentation, and improved traceability of parts. Additionally, it recommended adopting best practices for receiving and inspecting parts, as well as scrapping and destroying non-usable materials.
In 2023, CFM International—a joint venture between GE Aerospace and France's Safran—revealed that thousands of engine components may have been sold with forged paperwork by British distributor AOG Technics. Following the discovery, British authorities arrested an individual and launched an investigation into allegations that the firm distributed counterfeit parts for aircraft engines.
“These recommendations will close gaps and add new layers of safety to strengthen the supply chain’s integrity,” said Robert Sumwalt, former National Transportation Safety Board chair and a co-chair of the coalition. He credited swift industry action for stopping the distribution of rogue parts last year but emphasized the need for continued vigilance to prevent future incidents.
The Aviation Supply Chain group, led by GE Aerospace, includes major industry players such as Boeing, Airbus, Safran, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. Although the report stated that less than 1% of CFM engines in service were affected by the issue, it highlighted the need for stronger safeguards, particularly given the incident’s impact on a small number of CFM56 models—the world’s most widely sold passenger jet engine.
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