Maintenance and MRO
Keeping a private jet airworthy requires more than a good mechanic. It requires a facility that knows your specific airframe, understands your maintenance tracking requirements, and can turn your aircraft around without disrupting your schedule.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN MRO PROVIDER
Airframe specific experience: Look for facilities with documented experience on your specific aircraft type. A shop that primarily works King Airs may not be the right choice for your Gulfstream. Ask how many of your aircraft type they service annually.
FAA certifications and ratings: Confirm the facility holds the appropriate FAA repair station certificate for your aircraft. Ask to see their Operations Specifications and confirm their ratings cover your airframe, powerplant, and avionics.
Parts availability and sourcing: Ask how the facility sources parts. Do they maintain inventory for your aircraft type or rely entirely on third party suppliers? Long lead times on parts mean longer time out of service.
Maintenance tracking systems: A quality MRO will use a professional maintenance tracking system and provide you with clear, organized records after every visit. Poor documentation creates problems at resale and with your insurance carrier.
Loaner and ferry options: If your aircraft requires extended maintenance, does the facility have arrangements for loaner aircraft or ferry services to keep you moving? This matters more than most owners realize until they need it.
Turnaround time commitments: Get turnaround time estimates in writing before authorizing work. Ask what happens if they discover additional discrepancies during an inspection. A reputable shop communicates proactively and does not surprise you with scope creep.
Pricing transparency: Request itemized estimates before work begins. Understand the difference between flat rate and time and materials billing. Ask about their labor rate and how overtime is handled if your aircraft is on a tight schedule.
COMING SOON
We are building a curated directory of certified maintenance facilities and MRO providers across the United States and internationally, organized by aircraft type, location, and specialty. In the meantime contact us at chris@privatejetnation.com with any questions about maintenance providers for your aircraft.