Nov. 7, 2024
The Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Aerospace Supply Chain Resiliency (ASCR) Task Force issued a congressionally commissioned report this week citing the industry’s essential role in the U.S. and global economies, and setting forth actionable recommendations offered by NBAA and other stakeholder groups represented in the work of the task force.
The report comes as the industry has been beset by supply chain challenges, especially in the years following the COVID pandemic, caused in part by the sector’s unique attributes, which are noted in the study.
For example, the report’s authors note that the “aerospace supply chain is vulnerable to labor shortages, obstacles in critical materials, and the health of supporting infrastructure.” Furthermore, the industry is among the nation’s most regulated sectors, subject to requirements from the FAA, DOT and a host of other government agencies. Additionally, aerospace is a global industry, accountable to interoperability requirements, multilateral agreements and other rules governing the critical flow of parts and products across international boundaries.
The issue of supply chain disruption has been among the top concerns for business aviation – a topic in focus at NBAA’s National Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition and other events. NBAA has also brought together expert guidance offered in the association’s magazine, podcasts and other content.
Doug Carr, NBAA senior vice president, safety, security, sustainability and international regulation, participated in the work of the ASCR Task Force, and brought the industry’s perspectives to its work and recommendations.
Carr commended the group for the study, which accurately diagnoses the main drivers of the supply chain challenge, and sets forth concrete solutions.
“The task force proposed bold and critical recommendations that will set the U.S. up for continued aerospace leadership globally,” Carr said. “Of particular importance, the report focuses on workforce development beyond traditional sources of talent, and recommends making important investments toward modernization with processes including digitization of certificates and other streamlining initiatives.”
The Task Force also recommended implementation of a Congressional mechanism to ensure continuity of funding for the FAA and other federal agency functions, including funding for anticipated personnel needs and refreshed technology.
Review the full Aerospace Supply Chain Resiliency Task Force Report to Congress (PDF)
“While aerospace is the most regulated industry in the United States with obligations to aviation safety agencies internationally, it can also become the most resilient to shortages if the ability to pivot rapidly is allowed without undue consternation or restraint,” the task force concluded, adding that implementing the report’s recommendations will “enhance the American economy and the overall health, safety, and security of the nation.”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.