Why are OEMs important in the aviation aftermarket?

OEMs are important for the aviation industry, as they are the foundation of the aviation aftermarket ecosystem.

They not only build aircraft and systems but also provide the technical data, certification, and engineering support that sustain those assets throughout their lifecycle.

In the aviation aftermarket, OEMs:

Supply certified spare parts through authorised distributors like Satair.
Issue critical documentation such as AMMs, CMMs, and SBs.
Support operators and MROs with repair approvals and design changes.
Ensure ongoing regulatory compliance and product traceability.
Enable long-term fleet reliability through design and parts support.

Satair works in close collaboration with multiple OEMs — including Airbus — to provide airlines and MROs with OEM-approved materials, ensuring safety, performance, and compliance across the aftermarket.

Discover how Satair supports airlines through OEM partnerships.

What challenges exist in working with OEMs in the aviation industry?

While OEMs guarantee high quality and certification standards, challenges can include:

High part prices compared to used or PMA alternatives.
Long lead times for rare or legacy components.
Limited data access, since technical documentation is proprietary.
Regulatory dependencies when design approvals are required.

The aviation aftermarket seeks to balance these challenges by working with authorised distributors and repair partners who maintain OEM quality standards while improving availability and logistics.

How do OEMs operate in the aviation supply chain?

OEMs occupy the top level of the aerospace supply chain. They design, certify, and produce aircraft or components, while collaborating with tiered suppliers and distributors.

Simplified OEM Supply Chain Structure

Tier	Role	Example Participants
Airframe OEMs	Design and certify aircraft or systems	Airbus, Boeing, ATR, Embraer
Tier 1 – Major System Suppliers	Produce subsystems or large assemblies	Collins Aerospace, Safran, Honeywell
Tier 2 – Component Manufacturers	Make smaller parts and hardware	Parker Aerospace, Liebherr
Authorised Distributors	Supply certified parts and logistics	Satair, AAR, Aviall
End Users	Operate and maintain aircraft	Airlines, MROs, leasing companies

This structure ensures each component is traceable back to the design approval holder — maintaining regulatory compliance and safety across the lifecycle.

How can airlines and MROs work effectively with OEMs?

To optimise cooperation and reduce costs, operators should:

Establish long-term supply agreements with OEM distributors.
Maintain access to the latest OEM technical data and bulletins.
Align maintenance planning with OEM-recommended intervals.
Use OEM-approved parts and materials to preserve airworthiness.
Participate in OEM support programs for predictive maintenance and training.

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Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)

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Minus Plus Who are examples of OEMs in aviation?

Minus Plus Why are OEM-approved parts important?

Minus Plus Is OEM the same as “original”?

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What does OEM stand for in aviation?

What is the role of an OEM in aircraft maintenance?

What is the difference between OEM and PMA parts?

Who are examples of OEMs in aviation?

Why are OEM-approved parts important?

Is OEM the same as “original”?

What is the OEM process?