Whether you're maintaining a single Cessna or a fleet of cargo jets, finding aircraft parts, supplies, and equipment when you need them makes the difference between flying or grounding an aircraft. Many small businesses fly older models of aircraft, which makes finding parts even more difficult. Used aircraft parts are an option, but you need to use caution to ensure that the parts still meet safety standards.
Aircraft parts suppliers often specialize in a particular manufacturer or aircraft system. For example, some may only sell Cessna spare parts, while others sell a variety of jet spare parts. If you're flying a plane based on a commercial model, you'll find companies specializing in commercial aircraft parts. A company specializing in aircraft engines always sells engine parts.
The Internet makes tracking down and ordering aircraft spare parts easier than ever. You don't need to spend hours on the phone calling aircraft parts suppliers. When searching for aircraft parts, keep these things in mind:
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find parts for small aircraft
Cessna spare parts and Piper aircraft parts are easily purchased over the Internet. In addition to new manufacturer parts and used parts, you can also find an assortment of aftermarket parts for your aircraft.
I recommend: Cessnaparts.com has been selling aircraft parts supplies online since 1999. Their search page allows you to find the part you need quickly and easily.
Piperparts.com is right next door to the Piper manufacturing facility in Vero Beach, FL. You can place and pay for your order online.
Buy jet spare parts
Numerous suppliers provide Learjet spare parts and other commercial aircraft parts. Companies which purchased bulk quantities from the aircraft manufacturer when they quit producing or supporting a particular model often list these aircraft parts, especially for older models, in massive databases.
I recommend: Preferred Airparts purchases inventory of new aircraft parts. Search their database to see if they have what you need.
R&S Parts Distribution provides 24-hour service for Learjet parts.
Boeing parts can be ordered directly from the company, but you must set up an account with them. You can find parts for many types of jet aircraft through the
Aircraft Parts Market.
Take your time sourcing aircraft engine parts
Every part on an airplane is important, but engine parts in particular need to be meet quality and safety standards. Only purchase FAA approved engine piece parts.
I recommend: Superior Air Parts sells piece parts for both Lycoming and Continental aircraft engines. In addition to Lycoming and Continental,
Progressive Air Services is an authorized distributor for Kelly Aerospace, Autolite, Unison, Slick, Tempest and other engines.
Decide if aircraft used parts are acceptable
Purchase used or salvaged aircraft parts to make structural repairs or to replace mechanical parts. You should buy mechanical parts that come with serviceable or repair tags to ensure that the part is in working condition.
I recommend: Quality Aircraft Salvage stocks everything from propellers to wing parts. Fill out their online request form to find the part you need.
L&M Aircraft Parts provides used and overhauled parts for Piper, Learjet, Beech and other aircraft. They also provide repair services.
Choose tires wisely
Only buy airplane tires from reputable dealers. A blowout on landing can lead to costly repairs. Keep in mind, not all tires sold as new were recently manufactured. Ask the seller for the date of manufacture or retread. FAA certified retreads are safe to use and can save you about 50% on the cost of the tire.
I recommend: Desser has been in business since 1920 and is a top supplier of aircraft tires. Search their inventory by brand or tire size.
Skytreads.com is FAA and JAA certified to do retreads.
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