Intensifying General Aviation Parts Crisis: Majority of Maintenance Shops Anticipate Further Deterioration
A comprehensive industry survey unveiled this week portrays a grim scenario for general aviation maintenance professionals. The availability of parts is dwindling, prices are escalating, and delivery times are extending. Moreover, the majority of shops do not foresee any imminent improvement.
The 2026 State of General Aviation Parts Report, published on August 23 by TBX (Airworthy.com) under the guidance of CEO Jon McLaughlin, reveals that 66% of aviation maintenance professionals predict a further deterioration in the parts supply environment. The survey collated data from mechanics, shop owners, and Directors of Maintenance across the U.S.
One of the most alarming discoveries is that time, rather than cost, is the primary concern. Despite 72% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction with parts pricing and 59% with lead times, maintenance professionals report that the most significant loss is the countless hours spent searching for part numbers, locating inventory, and identifying alternatives.
The report highlights a deeper systemic issue: the average certified GA piston aircraft is now 53 years old, making it increasingly challenging to support legacy fleets as OEMs consolidate and original parts become scarce. The survey also pinpointed improved access to illustrated parts catalogs and technical data as the most actionable improvement opportunity for the industry.
TBX, a trusted partner for over 5,000 maintenance shops managing 65,000 aircraft in more than 50 countries, aims to provide aircraft owners, manufacturers, and regulators with a clearer understanding of the daily challenges faced by mechanics through this report.
Source: PRNewswire – Airworthy.com Releases 2026 State of General Aviation Parts Report