Phillip Dickerson, VP – Business Development, Eastern U.S. for JSSI, and Chris Charnley, VP – Business Development, Western U.S. and Canada for JSSI, recently spoke with AvBuyer about maintenance programs and what drives the cost of service. Read the full article on AvBuyer.
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Engine maintenance programs are a common element of business aircraft ownership, helping ensure the systems remain in peak operating condition at a predictable price. But what goes into determining the price aircraft owners pay?
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Dickerson highlights common factors such as age, usage and geographic location, but notes that broader market dynamics like material costs, labor availability and supply chain pressures are influencing the cost of maintenance.
“As modern engines have become more complex, so too has the expertise required to maintain them, and costs have increased,” he notes.
Offering a comprehensive suite of Hourly Cost Maintenance programs, JSSI supports virtually every make and model of business aircraft with coverage options ranging from engine-only to full Tip-to-Tail protection — including airframe, engines, APU and avionics.
Across programs, clients benefit from a dedicated global team of technical advisors, 24/7 AOG support, access to JSSI’s global parts and lease engine pool, and independent oversight across more than 10,000 maintenance events annually.
Dickerson highlights there has been a notable shift in how engine maintenance programs are viewed, and in some ways, this was triggered by the 2008 financial crisis which led to an increase in program adoption for financial security.
“Once considered a ‘bonus’, programs are now often expected, especially by lenders, who generally require an engine program in their loan or lease terms,” he says. “Aircraft not enrolled in a program often face valuation deductions at time of transaction.”
Early Engagement is Vital
According to Charnley, owners ought to develop a deeper understanding of factors related to their specific aircraft make and model, such as engine corrosion susceptibility and part life limits.
JSSI always recommends engaging early – ideally at the time of aircraft acquisition – and exploring all of the available program options and upgrades in order to make an informed decision.
“Ensuring coverage from the start and throughout the ownership cycle can enhance the overall experience and reduce transactional risk in the future or at time of resale,” he says. “Owners should avoid making decisions in isolation and instead consult with professionals who can conduct proper due diligence and evaluate the full range of available options.”
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