Original equipment manufacturers won the market for high-value, aftermarket aviation services, leaving independent maintenance, repair, and overhaul providers scouting for paths to evolve and grow.
In our annual aviation survey, we found engine and component MROs are preparing to fortify their remaining footholds through strategic partnering and by accelerating development of unique services. Airframe MROs, meanwhile, seek to capitalize on shifts caused by rising labor costs in emerging economies.
We expect:
- M&A in the sector to heat up.
- U.S. MROs to step up hiring.
- 3-D printing to be used to make expendable parts, but not proprietary materials.
3-D Printing on the Horizon
Survey respondents expect additive manufacturing, or 3-D printing, could reduce the cost of replacement parts, but is less likely to affect higher-end spares.