AOG Aircraft Services: How to Minimize Downtime

A grounded aircraft isn't just a mechanical problem—it's a high-stakes race against the clock. Suddenly, you're trying to find a rare part in another country, dispatch a certified technician, and clear complex customs hurdles. This is the exact moment specialized AOG aircraft services are built for. These teams are the logistical experts and technical wizards who thrive under pressure, turning a potential crisis into a managed solution. This guide breaks down what it takes to resolve an AOG event and shows you how to identify a provider with the experience to handle every challenge.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Urgency of AOG: An Aircraft on Ground (AOG) event isn't just a delay; it's a complete operational halt that costs thousands per hour. Resolving it requires an immediate, specialized response to protect your schedule and budget.
• Demand a Mobile, Global Solution: Effective AOG support comes to you, wherever you are. Look for providers with 24/7 mobile repair teams and a worldwide logistics network capable of sourcing and delivering critical parts without delay.
• Choose Your AOG Partner Proactively: Don't wait for an emergency to find help. Evaluate AOG providers ahead of time by verifying their response times, technical certifications, global reach, and specific experience with your aircraft.

What Are AOG Aircraft Services?

In the world of aviation, few acronyms carry as much weight as AOG, or "Aircraft on Ground." This critical status is declared when an aircraft is unable to fly due to a technical problem. It’s not just a minor delay; it’s a complete stop that grounds the plane until the issue is fixed. The cause could be anything from a mechanical fault discovered during a pre-flight check to a required inspection that can't be postponed. When a jet is AOG, it becomes the highest priority for any flight department or maintenance team because every moment it's not in the air represents a disruption.

What's Included in AOG Support?

AOG services are the rapid-response solution designed to get a grounded aircraft back in the air safely and quickly. Think of it as an emergency room for your jet. These specialized services cover everything needed to resolve the issue right where the aircraft is parked. This includes immediate on-site diagnostics, performing complex mechanical or electrical repairs, and sourcing and replacing necessary parts. A dedicated AOG maintenance team manages the entire process—from the initial call to final testing and documentation—to ensure the aircraft is fully compliant and ready for flight.

The AOG Repair Process From Start to Finish

When an AOG event occurs, the response is immediate and methodical. The process begins the moment a call is made, triggering the dispatch of a mobile repair team directly to the aircraft's location. Upon arrival, certified technicians perform detailed diagnostics to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem. Once the issue is identified, the logistics phase kicks in. This often involves a global search for specific parts, navigating customs, and arranging expedited shipping to get them on-site without delay. With parts in hand, the technicians carry out the necessary repairs, followed by rigorous testing to confirm the fix and ensure the aircraft meets all safety standards before it is officially returned to service.

Beyond Emergency Repairs: A Full Spectrum of Services

While AOG support is critical, the best providers offer a complete range of services that go far beyond emergency fixes. Comprehensive aircraft care includes scheduled maintenance, complex avionics work, and detailed pre-purchase inspections. This holistic approach is a sign of a true partner in aviation. A team that handles your routine check-ups is already familiar with your aircraft’s history and specifications, which allows them to resolve AOG situations more efficiently. This deep expertise ensures that from regular upkeep to urgent repairs, your aircraft is always in the hands of professionals who understand it inside and out, which is a core part of our aircraft management philosophy.

Contingency Planning: Charter Services for Uninterrupted Travel

An AOG event grounds your aircraft, but it doesn’t have to ground you. While the maintenance team works to get your jet back in the air, your travel plans can continue without interruption. This is where a contingency plan becomes essential. Leading aviation companies provide seamless private jet charter services to ensure you reach your destination on schedule. Having a single point of contact for both the repair and the backup flight simplifies a stressful situation, allowing you to focus on your business or personal commitments. It transforms a potential crisis into a manageable inconvenience, keeping your itinerary intact while your aircraft receives the attention it needs.

The AOG Timeline: Why Every Second Counts

When an aircraft is on the ground, the clock is ticking. AOG situations are treated with extreme urgency because delays disrupt schedules and create significant costs. A dedicated AOG response team works around the clock to minimize downtime. This involves dispatching technicians immediately and using expedited logistics to deliver parts. Whether it’s putting a part on the "Next Flight Out" or having a technician hand-carry it, the entire timeline is compressed to get the jet flying again as soon as possible, all while following strict safety regulations.

The True Cost of an AOG Situation

An AOG event has a major ripple effect on your plans and your budget. For business travelers, it can mean missing a critical meeting or a deal-closing opportunity. For families, it can put a long-awaited vacation on hold. The financial costs are just as significant. A grounded jet accumulates expenses from crew salaries, airport fees, and the potential need for last-minute alternative travel arrangements. Industry estimates suggest a single AOG situation can cost an operator tens of thousands of dollars per hour, which highlights why a swift and effective resolution is so valuable.

How to Overcome Common AOG Hurdles

When your aircraft is grounded, a series of complex challenges immediately kicks in. It’s not just about a single mechanical issue; it’s a race against time involving logistics, technical expertise, and international regulations. A successful resolution depends on a team that can expertly manage every moving part of the AOG puzzle. From sourcing a specific component in another country to getting a certified technician to a remote airfield, every step requires precision and speed. An experienced AOG service provider anticipates these hurdles and has the systems in place to clear them efficiently, turning a potential crisis into a managed solution.

Getting Critical Parts Where They Need to Be, Fast

The first and most critical challenge is getting the right spare parts to the aircraft as quickly as possible. This isn't as simple as ordering online. It involves locating a specific, certified component that might be halfway across the world and then arranging immediate transport. Every minute spent waiting for a part extends downtime, increases costs, and disrupts your schedule. A top-tier AOG service has a robust supply chain and logistics network designed for this exact scenario, ensuring the necessary parts are dispatched and delivered with the utmost urgency.

Finding the Right Technicians on Short Notice

Having the right part is only half the battle; you also need a qualified technician on-site to install it. AOG situations often require specialists with specific training and certifications, such as FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) licenses. These technicians must be able to diagnose the problem accurately and perform the repair to the highest safety standards. A reliable AOG provider maintains a network of highly skilled, mobile technicians who are ready to travel anywhere at a moment's notice, bringing the necessary expertise directly to your aircraft.

The Role of AOG Hubs and Rapid Response Teams

To solve these challenges effectively, top AOG providers operate with dedicated rapid response teams stationed at strategic hubs around the world. Think of these hubs as command centers, ready to deploy technicians and parts 24/7. When you make that urgent call, a specialized team immediately heads to your location, no matter where you are. This structure is the key to a swift resolution, allowing you to tap into a pre-established network built for speed and efficiency instead of scrambling for help. These rapid response teams are the backbone of AOG support, managing everything from logistics to on-the-ground repairs to get your aircraft operational again with minimal delay.

Solving Cross-Border AOG Logistics

Private aviation is global, which means an AOG event can happen anywhere. When a part needs to cross international borders, the logistical complexity grows exponentially. This is where emergency logistics become essential. It’s a specialized field focused on the rapid, worldwide delivery of critical shipments. Your AOG support team must be masters of this process, capable of finding the fastest possible routes to get your aircraft the components it needs, no matter where it’s located.

Cutting Through Customs Red Tape

Even the fastest international shipment can be stopped in its tracks by customs. Incorrect or incomplete paperwork can leave a critical aircraft part sitting in a warehouse for days, completely defeating the purpose of an urgent response. An experienced AOG team understands the nuances of international customs and prepares all necessary documentation meticulously. They know how to declare parts correctly and work with customs brokers to ensure a smooth, swift clearance process, preventing bureaucratic delays from keeping your aircraft on the ground.

Keeping AOG Costs Under Control

Every hour an aircraft is grounded, the costs mount significantly. Estimates show that an AOG event can cost an operator between $10,000 and $20,000 per hour in lost revenue, crew expenses, and passenger accommodations. Each hurdle—from sourcing parts to clearing customs—contributes to this downtime. An efficient AOG response is fundamentally about cost control. By resolving mechanical issues quickly and managing the logistics seamlessly, a great AOG provider minimizes the financial impact and gets your operations back on track without delay.

What Great AOG Support Looks Like

When your aircraft is grounded, you need more than just a quick fix—you need a seamless, professional, and rapid response. The difference between a good AOG service and a great one lies in its ability to anticipate needs and execute flawlessly under pressure. It’s a combination of having the right people, the right parts, and the right processes ready to go at a moment's notice. Exceptional support isn't just about getting your plane back in the air; it's about providing peace of mind throughout the entire process.

From the initial call to the final sign-off, every step should be handled with precision and clear communication. This level of service is built on a foundation of constant readiness, deep expertise, and an unwavering commitment to safety and quality. Think of it as a well-oiled machine where every component works in perfect harmony. The best providers have invested heavily in their infrastructure, from mobile repair units to global parts networks, ensuring they can overcome any logistical hurdle. They understand that for you, time is the most valuable asset. That’s why their entire operation is designed around minimizing downtime and getting you back on your schedule. Let's look at the specific qualities that define a top-tier AOG support team.

24/7 Support When You Need It Most

An AOG situation rarely happens during convenient business hours. That’s why premier AOG services offer 24/7 technical assistance. Whether it’s midnight or midday, you should be able to connect with a skilled technician who can immediately start diagnosing the problem. This constant availability is the first line of defense, ensuring that no time is wasted waiting for the next business day. A dedicated team on standby means the recovery process begins the moment you make the call. This is a non-negotiable feature of any reliable aircraft maintenance provider, as it sets the stage for a swift and effective resolution.

Dedicated AOG Hotlines and Knowledgeable Dispatchers

Beyond just being available, the quality of that first point of contact is what truly matters. When you call an AOG hotline, you shouldn't be met with a simple answering service. You need a calm, expert voice on the other end—a dispatcher who understands aviation mechanics and the urgency of your situation. This person is the nerve center of the operation, asking the right diagnostic questions to immediately understand the problem and mobilize the correct resources. A well-coordinated AOG response begins with this first conversation, as a knowledgeable dispatcher can shave critical hours off the resolution time by dispatching the right technician and sourcing the correct parts from the start. This initial interaction sets the entire resolution in motion, turning a moment of crisis into a clear, actionable plan.

Repair Teams That Come to You

The best AOG support doesn’t require you to figure out how to get your aircraft to a maintenance facility. Instead, they bring the solution directly to you. Top-tier providers operate mobile repair teams that can be dispatched to your aircraft's location, no matter where it is. These teams arrive fully equipped with the necessary tools and diagnostic equipment to perform repairs on-site. This capability dramatically reduces downtime and logistical headaches. It’s the ultimate in convenience and efficiency, turning a potentially complex problem into a manageable one by bringing expert help right to the tarmac.

Mobile Support Backed by Full-Service MRO Facilities

While mobile repair teams are essential for rapid, on-site fixes, some issues require more extensive work than can be done on the tarmac. This is where a full-service Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility becomes critical. The best AOG providers back their mobile units with the comprehensive resources of a dedicated maintenance base. If a repair is too complex for the field, the aircraft can be moved to a facility equipped with specialized tooling, a larger inventory of parts, and a broader team of expert technicians. This integrated system ensures there’s a solution for every scenario, providing a seamless transition from initial diagnosis to complete repair and giving you total peace of mind.

Access to a Global Parts Network

A grounded aircraft is often waiting on a single, critical component. An exceptional AOG service overcomes this challenge with a robust global network for parts. This means they have established relationships and logistics channels to source and deliver spare parts anywhere in the world, quickly. An efficient system for AOG logistics is crucial for reducing delays that can stretch on for days. By having a pre-vetted supply chain, providers can bypass common sourcing issues and get the right part on its way to your aircraft without delay, ensuring a faster return to service.

How They Ensure Quality and Compliance

Speed is essential, but it can never come at the expense of safety. Great AOG providers operate with an unwavering commitment to quality and compliance. Every repair, from the simplest fix to a major component replacement, must be performed to the highest standards. Technicians should meticulously follow all manufacturer guidelines and adhere to strict FAA regulations during inspections and repairs. This focus on quality ensures the aircraft is not only airworthy but also fully compliant, giving you complete confidence in the safety and integrity of the work performed.

FAA Certified Repair Stations

When you're facing an AOG situation, you need absolute confidence in the team handling the repairs. This is where an FAA Certified Repair Station comes in. This certification isn't just a piece of paper; it's a guarantee that the facility meets the Federal Aviation Administration's rigorous standards for training, tooling, and procedures. It means every aspect of their operation, from minor maintenance to complex inspections, is performed in strict compliance with FAA regulations. Choosing an AOG provider with this certification ensures that the technicians working on your aircraft are not just skilled, but are also held to the highest safety and quality benchmarks in the industry.

International Aviation Authority Certifications

Private aviation is a global affair, and your AOG support should be too. Beyond the FAA, a top-tier provider will hold certifications from other international aviation authorities like the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Mexico's Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC), and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA). These credentials demonstrate a commitment to maintaining exceptional safety and quality standards across the globe. For you, this means that whether your aircraft is grounded in Geneva or Toronto, the technicians who arrive are trained and qualified to perform repairs that meet both local and international requirements. It’s a critical factor that ensures consistent, reliable service no matter where your travels take you.

Verifying Certification and Airworthiness

How can you be sure a provider meets these high standards? Look for their certifications. Reputable AOG services are certified by aviation authorities like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These certifications are not just pieces of paper; they are proof that the provider has undergone rigorous audits and meets stringent requirements for training, tooling, and quality control. Choosing a certified provider for your aircraft management needs guarantees that you are working with a team that is held to the industry’s highest benchmarks for safety and professionalism, ensuring your asset is in capable hands.

Advanced Technician Training and Certifications

When your jet is grounded, you need an expert, not just a general mechanic. The technicians handling your aircraft must have advanced training and credentials, with the FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license serving as the industry benchmark. This certification isn't just a formality; it confirms a technician has the deep knowledge to accurately diagnose complex issues and perform repairs that meet the highest safety standards. The best AOG maintenance teams are built around these highly skilled professionals who meticulously follow manufacturer guidelines and FAA regulations. This commitment to excellence ensures every repair is documented correctly and your aircraft is returned to service in full compliance, giving you complete confidence in its safety and airworthiness.

How to Choose the Right AOG Service Provider

When your aircraft is grounded, the AOG provider you call can make all the difference. The right team gets you back in the air quickly and safely, while the wrong one can lead to extended delays and spiraling costs. But with so many options, how do you find a partner you can trust when the pressure is on? It comes down to asking the right questions before you’re in an emergency.

Think of it like vetting any other critical member of your team. You want a provider that is not only technically proficient but also understands the urgency of your situation. Look for a company that operates with transparency, communicates clearly, and has a proven track record of success. The best AOG partners act as an extension of your own flight department, anticipating your needs and working proactively to protect your asset and your schedule. Use the following criteria as a guide to help you select a reliable AOG service provider that will be there for you when every second counts.

How Fast is Their Response Time?

In an AOG situation, time is the most critical variable. Your first question for any potential provider should be about their response time. A great AOG service treats your call as an emergency and should be able to dispatch a team within hours, not days. Ask them about their process from the moment you call to the moment a technician arrives at your aircraft. A provider committed to minimizing your downtime will have a clear, efficient system in place. At Hangar 7, our AOG services are built around rapid response, because we know that every moment on the ground impacts your plans and your budget.

Do They Have a True Global Reach?

Your aircraft can take you anywhere, and your AOG support should be able to follow. A provider with a limited service area won't be much help if you're grounded on the other side of the country or the world. Look for a company with a broad, established network of technicians and resources. This global reach ensures they can provide assistance internationally and are familiar with local regulations, including FAA rules. A provider with a strong network can get the right people and parts to your location quickly, no matter how remote it may be. This capability is essential for maintaining your travel flexibility and freedom.

What is Their Level of Technical Expertise?

The person working on your aircraft should be a certified expert, period. Don’t hesitate to ask about a provider’s technical qualifications. Their technicians should hold key certifications, like FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) licenses, and receive continuous training to stay current with the latest technology and repair techniques. It’s also wise to confirm they have specific experience with your aircraft model. A team with the right expertise will diagnose issues accurately and perform repairs correctly the first time, ensuring your aircraft is returned to service in airworthy condition and without unnecessary delays.

Aircraft-Specific Specializations

Beyond general certifications, it’s crucial to find a provider with hands-on experience with your specific type of aircraft. A team that specializes in Gulfstream jets will know the intricacies of its systems in a way a generalist might not. This specialized knowledge is like having an emergency room doctor who is also a leading specialist in your exact condition. They can diagnose issues faster, anticipate potential complications, and perform repairs with greater precision. This expertise translates directly into less time on the ground and a more reliable fix, ensuring your asset is handled by people who understand it inside and out.

Decades of Proven Experience

In a high-stakes field like aviation, a long track record is a powerful indicator of reliability. A company that has been managing AOG events for decades has built more than just a business; they’ve built a history of trust and a network of solutions. They’ve seen nearly every type of failure and have refined their processes for maximum efficiency. This experience means they have established relationships with parts suppliers and logistics partners worldwide, allowing them to overcome hurdles that might stump a newer company. Choosing a provider with a proven history gives you confidence that you’re partnering with a team that has weathered countless storms and consistently delivered for their clients, a critical factor in successful aircraft ownership.

Can They Guarantee Parts Availability?

Even the most skilled technician can’t complete a repair without the necessary parts. A top-tier AOG provider must have a robust logistics and supply chain network to source and deliver components quickly. Ask about their parts procurement process. Do they have established relationships with suppliers? Can they arrange for "Next Flight Out" services or even charter a flight to deliver a critical part? A provider’s ability to get spare parts delivered fast is a key indicator of their effectiveness. This logistical strength is often what separates a minor delay from a multi-day grounding event.

Access to an On-Hand Parts Inventory

The single biggest hurdle in most AOG events isn't the repair itself—it's waiting for the right part to arrive. Even the most efficient logistics network takes time to locate, purchase, and ship a component from across the country or overseas. This is why a provider with an on-hand parts inventory offers a massive advantage. By stocking the most common and critical components, they can eliminate the entire sourcing delay. This proactive approach allows technicians to start the repair almost immediately, potentially saving you days of downtime. A truly effective AOG maintenance program is built on this readiness, ensuring the solution is already on the shelf.

Can They Help Prevent Future AOGs?

The best way to handle an AOG situation is to prevent it from happening in the first place. A truly valuable partner offers more than just emergency repairs; they provide proactive, preventive maintenance to keep your aircraft in peak condition. Inquire about their regular maintenance programs and how they can help you identify and address potential issues before they become critical failures. This forward-thinking approach not only enhances safety and reliability but also demonstrates a provider’s long-term commitment to your operational success. It’s a sign that they see you as a partner, not just a one-time service call.

How Do They Handle Communication and Pricing?

An AOG event is inherently stressful, and the last thing you need is confusion about the process or the price. A truly professional AOG provider understands this and prioritizes clear, consistent communication from start to finish. They know that transparency isn't just good customer service; it's a fundamental part of building trust during a high-stakes situation. This means you should expect straightforward answers about costs and constant updates on the repair status. A provider who keeps you in the loop and is upfront about pricing demonstrates their commitment to being a reliable partner, not just a service provider. They manage the situation with clarity, allowing you to feel confident that everything is under control.

Clear and Detailed Repair Estimates

When you’re facing an AOG, you need to know exactly what the financial commitment will be. A reputable provider will always offer clear and detailed estimates before any work begins. This isn't just a single number; it's a comprehensive breakdown that includes the cost of parts, labor, technician travel, and any other associated fees. This level of transparency is a hallmark of a trustworthy partner. It allows you to understand the full scope of the repair and plan accordingly, without worrying about hidden charges or surprise costs appearing on the final invoice. Insist on a detailed estimate, as it reflects a provider’s integrity and respect for your budget.

Guidance for Flight Crews During an AOG Event

Beyond the technical repair, exceptional AOG support includes managing the human side of the situation. Your flight crew is on the front lines, and they need clear direction and constant updates. A top-tier provider offers dedicated guidance for flight crews throughout the entire event, acting as a single, reliable point of contact. This means keeping them informed about the technician’s ETA, the status of parts delivery, and the expected timeline for the repair. This proactive communication is essential for managing expectations and allows your crew to focus on their responsibilities, like coordinating with passengers, instead of chasing down information. It turns a chaotic situation into a structured, well-managed process.

8 Top AOG Service Providers to Consider

When your aircraft is grounded, you need a partner you can trust to act quickly and effectively. The right AOG service provider can mean the difference between a minor delay and a major operational disruption. The best teams combine technical expertise with a global logistics network to get you flying again, no matter where you are. They understand the urgency and have the resources to dispatch technicians, source parts, and handle complex repairs around the clock.

Choosing a provider isn't just about finding someone who can fix a problem; it's about finding a team that becomes an extension of your own operations. Look for providers with a proven track record, transparent communication, and a commitment to safety and compliance. From major international players to specialized, client-focused firms, here are some of the top AOG providers known for their reliability and rapid response.

Hangar 7 Aviation

When you need immediate, hands-on support, Hangar 7 Aviation delivers. With a focus on personalized service, their team is structured for rapid deployment to resolve issues efficiently. What sets them apart is their direct line of communication and constant readiness. There's always a technician standing by, 24/7, for on-demand AOG support. This means you get expert assistance the moment you need it, minimizing downtime and getting your aircraft back in the air with confidence. Their commitment to being available around the clock makes them a reliable partner for any unexpected maintenance event.

Lufthansa Technik

As a global leader in the MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) industry, Lufthansa Technik offers incredibly comprehensive AOG services. Their strength lies in their vast network and extensive experience with a wide range of aircraft. They operate a 24/7 AOG support desk and can dispatch rapid-response teams to almost any location worldwide. With access to a massive inventory of spare parts and deep engineering expertise, they are equipped to handle complex technical issues efficiently. Their global presence ensures that no matter where you are, expert help is within reach.

AAR Corp

AAR Corp is well-regarded for its integrated aviation solutions, and its AOG services are a key part of that offering. They specialize in parts supply and logistics, which is often the biggest hurdle in an AOG situation. AAR maintains a global network of warehouses stocked with certified components, allowing them to ship necessary parts quickly to your location. Their support extends beyond just parts; they also provide maintenance teams to ensure the repair is completed correctly and efficiently, focusing on solutions that reduce ground time and improve your operational flow.

FL Technics

FL Technics provides dedicated, 24/7 AOG support with a strong presence in Europe, Asia, and beyond. Their teams are known for their quick mobilization and ability to perform on-site repairs under pressure. They offer a complete solution that includes sourcing and delivering parts, dispatching certified technicians, and managing the entire repair process from start to finish. This end-to-end management ensures a streamlined response, helping operators get their aircraft back to a flight-ready status as quickly as possible. Their focus on a swift, coordinated response makes them a dependable choice.

StandardAero

StandardAero is a trusted name in engine MRO, and their AOG services reflect that deep technical expertise. They offer rapid-response mobile service teams that can be dispatched globally to address engine-related issues and other critical maintenance needs. Their technicians are highly trained and equipped with the tools to perform complex repairs on the tarmac. StandardAero’s commitment to quality and speed ensures that any service performed meets the highest standards, reducing the risk of future disruptions and keeping your operations running smoothly.

Duncan Aviation

Duncan Aviation is known for its exceptional customer service and comprehensive AOG support across the United States and beyond. They operate mobile response teams that are available 24/7 to travel to an aircraft's location. These teams are equipped to handle a wide range of unscheduled maintenance events, from avionics troubleshooting to structural repairs. With access to an extensive parts inventory and in-house engineering experts, Duncan Aviation can resolve issues quickly and effectively, ensuring your aircraft is serviced to the highest standards, no matter where it's grounded.

Jet Support Services (JSSI)

JSSI offers AOG support primarily through its extensive, vetted network of MRO providers worldwide. For clients on their maintenance programs, JSSI’s AOG team acts as a single point of contact, coordinating the entire repair process. They manage everything from sourcing parts and dispatching technicians to overseeing the repair and handling the administrative details. This concierge-style approach takes the logistical burden off the operator, allowing their team to provide expert assistance and ensure a swift and efficient return to service.

Constant Aviation

Constant Aviation has built a strong reputation for its nationwide AOG response network, AOG Go-Teams. Their technicians are on call 24/7/365 and can be dispatched from dozens of locations across the country, often arriving on-site within hours. They are equipped to handle a wide array of maintenance tasks, including avionics, engine, and airframe repairs. This extensive, mobile footprint allows them to provide fast, reliable service to minimize downtime and ensure your aircraft is back in service with minimal delay.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the first thing I should do if my aircraft is AOG? The moment you know your aircraft is grounded, your first call should be to your trusted AOG service provider. The goal is to get the recovery process started immediately. Provide them with as much information as you have, including your location and any details from the pilot or crew about the issue. A great team will take it from there, beginning diagnostics and logistics right away to minimize your time on the ground.

How is AOG different from a regular maintenance delay? Think of a regular maintenance delay as a scheduled appointment, while an AOG is a trip to the emergency room. A standard delay might involve a minor, non-critical fix that can be addressed in a short time. An AOG situation, however, means the aircraft is legally and technically unfit to fly. It requires an immediate, high-priority response to resolve a problem that has completely halted your operations.

Can I prevent an AOG situation from happening? While you can't prevent every possible issue, you can significantly reduce the risk through consistent, proactive maintenance. Partnering with a provider for a regular maintenance program helps catch potential problems before they become critical failures. This approach keeps your aircraft in top condition and is the single best strategy for ensuring reliability and avoiding the stress and cost of an unexpected grounding.

Why are AOG services so expensive? The cost of AOG support reflects the incredible speed and complexity required to solve the problem. You are paying for an entire emergency response system: 24/7 access to expert technicians, the immediate dispatch of a mobile repair team, and a global logistics network capable of shipping a critical part overnight across continents. While the service has a premium price, it's designed to save you from the much higher costs of extended downtime, which can run into tens of thousands of dollars per hour.

What if my aircraft is grounded in a remote location? This is exactly why choosing a provider with a strong global reach is so important. A top-tier AOG service is built to handle this exact scenario. They operate mobile repair teams that are prepared to travel anywhere in the world. They also have the logistical expertise to overcome challenges like clearing customs and shipping parts to out-of-the-way airfields, ensuring you get the support you need no matter where your travels take you.