Airbus Eyes Major Role In A350 Aftermarket Support; First Customer Imminent

There is something very questionable about the practice of airframer passing the cost of spares inventory and positioning off on the client airlines. My experience is that certain carriers are harder on their equipment than others, and would benefit more than others that are more gentle on the hardware.

I have grave doubts that any maintenance shop aside from that of the manufacturers can properly service the carbon fiber portions of the A350 or B787.

The manufacturers should have spares on hand where needed, and pay the cost of that inventory until sold. That will encourage them to make better parts, and more accurately track failure rates and causes.

Airbus in particular needs to have a larger ear turned toward those who turn the wrenches to make faster and cheaper MRO jobs a reality.