A2 Global Electronics’ CEO, Frank Cavallaro, encourages buyers to collaborate with suppliers who understand aerospace procurement and can ensure precision and reliability.
Navigating the aerospace supply chain is a high-stakes endeavor requiring precision, foresight and reliability. Buyers in this complex arena face challenges such as ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations, sourcing components for mission-critical systems and mitigating delays that can have significant financial and operational consequences.
Whether procuring parts for avionics systems, satellites or other aerospace applications, understanding the sourcing process is imperative. Recognizing priorities and avoiding pitfalls can mean the difference between seamless execution and costly setbacks.
Aerospace systems are designed for environments where failure is not an option—extreme temperatures, high altitudes and constant mechanical stresses. These conditions demand components that meet exacting standards for performance and reliability. For buyers, this means confidence in every part sourced.
A robust supply chain is critical, built on suppliers who uphold certifications such as AS9120 and AS6081. Compliance is more than a checkbox; it is a safeguard against failure that minimizes risks and bolsters operational reliability.
The aerospace supply chain is fraught with challenges. A strategic, well-informed approach is essential to steer clear of critical missteps. Below are three common pitfalls and actionable strategies to address them.
Obsolescence: Obsolescence is a pervasive challenge in aerospace, where long product lifecycles often outlast the availability of essential components. Failure to manage EoL risks can result in production delays and elevated costs.
Testing: Quality control is paramount in aerospace. A single faulty component can compromise safety and program success. Partnering with suppliers who provide rigorous testing—such as electrical testing and thermal testing—ensures components meet specifications and are free from defects. This diligence protects against costly rework and system failures.
Lead times: Specialized aerospace components often require longer lead times. Poor planning can derail schedules and incur penalties. Buyers should forecast demand accurately and secure critical parts well in advance to account for production complexities.
Achieving a resilient aerospace supply chain requires proactive planning and a commitment to excellence. Below are three strategies to elevate sourcing practices and mitigate risks:
Relationship building: Partnering with trusted distributors ensures access to reliable components and stability during supply chain disruptions. Strong relationships also expedite solutions in challenging scenarios.
Obsolescence planning: Obsolescence planning should be integral to every sourcing strategy. Collaborating with suppliers who specialize in lifecycle planning and provide lifecycle notifications helps maintain continuity for systems reliant on older components, mitigating EoL risks and enabling proactive decision-making.
Comprehensive solutions: Streamlining processes by working with a one-stop-shop supplier capable of procurement, testing and value-added services reduces handling risks and accelerates timelines. This integrated approach ensures components meet aerospace standards while simplifying logistics.
