In response to the disruptions caused by global supply chain challenges, Indian airlines are turning to local suppliers for non-critical aircraft components, offering both cost and time benefits. This strategic shift is aimed at mitigating the impact on flight operations due to a scarcity of spare parts.
IndiGo initiated the process of seeking approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation two years ago to purchase non-critical, non-structural items locally. The airline has successfully incorporated indigenous parts into its aircraft, emphasizing the acceptability and feasibility of this approach.
Air India’s Chief Technical Officer, Sisira Kanta Dash, highlighted the significance of utilizing local suppliers for non-critical parts, citing examples such as paper for printers and stickers on cabin items. The move is expected to contribute to significant cost savings, with reduced waiting times for certain parts.
The adoption of this trend not only addresses immediate challenges but also positions Indian carriers to negotiate favorable terms with lessors, potentially leading to substantial cost reductions in leasing aircraft. As the industry embraces this shift, both IndiGo and Air India are pioneering the use of locally sourced non-critical parts, signaling a positive step toward self-sufficiency and efficiency in the aviation sector.
