PMA and OEM Parts for Aircraft

Manufacturing aircraft parts requires perfection and precision, as the smallest of errors can have catastrophic consequences. To ensure that products meet the highest quality standards of airworthiness, manufacturers must adhere to strict quality control guidelines and procedures. This process includes everything from testing materials to inspecting finished products. 

For decades, aircraft manufacturers have relied on Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts to maintain and repair their fleets. To easily identify specific products, OEM parts are designed and manufactured by the same company that made the original aircraft, and they are often considered the best option for maintaining safety and performance. 

However, other types of aircraft parts with Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) can be used depending on their intended application. PMA parts are produced by independent manufacturers who have received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to produce replacement parts for specific aircraft models. While PMA parts can often be a more cost-effective option than OEM parts, they may also offer additional benefits. In this blog, we will describe the difference between OEM and PMA parts to better understand each.

PMA Parts in Aircraft

To produce PMA products, manufacturers must first be granted approval by the FAA, and they must meet or exceed specific OEM quality standards by a specific parts manufacturer to produce spare or replacement parts for aircraft. When manufacturing PMA parts, the parts manufacturer must comply with rigorous quality assurance provisions under FAA regulation, alongside an approved quality management system as part of the PMA application process. 

In addition, the parts manufacturer must have adequate engineering data and test procedures to ensure compliance with airworthiness standards. Several other steps, including applications, risk assessments, engineering tests, installations, and usability verifications, must also be performed to complete the FAA approval procedure.

OEM Parts in Aircraft

OEM parts are equipment produced by the same company that originally manufactured an aircraft or its specific parts. Because they are designed specifically for the aircraft, OEM parts are a critical component for maintaining vehicle airworthiness, ultimately ensuring the safety of all passengers and crewmen on board. That is why OEM parts are held to the highest standards of quality and reliability. 

Due to their reliability, OEMs have long been the leaders in manufacturing and selling critical parts for aircraft in the aerospace industry. OEMs have access to the latest technology and provide ongoing support throughout an aircraft's life cycle, and they are also responsible for producing and installing such parts. 

Conclusion

The quality of every aircraft part is vital for its operation(s). Therefore, all the components of an aircraft must meet or exceed quality standards to promote smooth operation of aircraft. For any OEM or PMA components you require, look no further than Civil Aviation Parts; we offer high-quality equipment with an airworthiness guarantee! As we are available 24/7x365, contact us at your earliest convenience to learn more about our products and services. 

1. williams lawsons
2. Posted on June 1, 2022
aviation

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