How to Practically Implement Outsourcing in Aircraft Maintenance

 

How to Practically Implement Outsourcing in Aircraft Maintenance: A Step-by-Step Guide with Examples

Outsourcing aircraft maintenance is not about giving up control—it's about gaining operational flexibility and technical expertise. But it must be done strategically. Here's a practical, step-by-step framework airlines can follow to outsource effectively:

1. Identify what to source

Start by assessing your internal capabilities and limitations. You don’t have to outsource everything at once.

Commonly outsourced maintenance activities:

• Line maintenance at outstations (where you don’t have a base)
• Heavy checks (C or D checks) that require special hangars and tools
• Component repair and overhaul
• Non-routine tasks like NDT (Non-Destructive Testing), avionics upgrades, or composite repairs

Example:

An airline based in Nairobi (Kenya) operates flights to Dubai, Johannesburg, and Lusaka- Since it doesn´t have hangar space or technicians at these destinations, it outsources line maintenance to approved MROs at each location.

2. Vet and Select Certified MRO partners

Don’t outsource to just anyone. Look for MROs certified by EASA, FAA, or your national CAA. Review their safety record, turnaround time, technical expertise, and references from other operators.

Selection Criteria:

• Regulatory approvals

• Experience with your aircraft type (e.g., B737, A320, Dash 8, etc.)

• Ability to provide AOG support

• Warranty and liability terms

3. Structure the Outsourcing Agreement Properly

Draft a Service Level Agreement (SLA) that clearly defines:

• Scope of services (e.g., daily checks, wheel/brake replacement)

• Turnaround time expectations

• Quality and compliance standards

• Cost structure (fixed, per hour, or per event)

• Liability for errors and delays

 Example:

An airline signs a "Power-by-the-Hour" (PBH) contract with a component support company, paying only for actual flight hours. This helps the airline          manage cash flow predictably.

4. Implement Monitoring and Oversight

Even with outsourcing, you remain responsible to the CAA. Set up systems to:

• Review daily maintenance reports

• Audit the MRO provider periodically

• Station a technical representative on-site (if necessary)

5. Train Your Internal Staff to Manage the Outsourced Relationship

Outsourcing shifts the role of your technical team from “doing” to “supervising.” Train them in:

• Contract management

• Quality oversight

• Records auditing

• Communication and escalation

6. Start Small, then scale

Don’t rush into full outsourcing. Start with:

• AOG support

• Component repairs

• Scheduled inspections

Then expand as confidence builds.

Example:

A startup airline outsources just tire and brake changes at outstations for 6 months before outsourcing full overnight line checks.

7. Maintain Regulatory and Safety Compliance

Keep your records, traceability, and aircraft logs in line with CAA requirements. All outsourced work must be logged properly.

Successful operators across Africa and beyond are already building long-term partnerships with reliable MRO providers and seeing the results in  both uptime and bottom-line performance.

📩Get in touch today to discuss how strategic outsourcing can keep your aircraft flying and your business thriving.