Introduction

In the intricate, high-value, and safety-critical aviation industry, Procurement and Supply Chain Management are not merely supporting functions but strategic pillars that directly impact operational efficiency, cost control, airworthiness, and overall organizational resilience. From sourcing critical aircraft parts and fuel to managing complex MRO contracts and IT systems, the aviation supply chain is global, highly regulated, and exceptionally demanding. Effective procurement ensures the timely acquisition of quality goods and services at competitive prices, while robust supply chain management guarantees the seamless flow of materials, information, and funds across a vast network of suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers. Any disruption or inefficiency in this chain can lead to severe operational delays, increased costs, and compromised safety standards. This essential training course focuses on equipping aviation professionals with the expertise to master Aviation Procurement and Supply Chain Management.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to empower procurement managers, supply chain specialists, logistics professionals, MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) personnel, finance executives, and contract managers within airlines, airports, manufacturers, and service providers with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to optimize aviation procurement and supply chain processes. Participants will gain a deep understanding of strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, inventory management, risk mitigation, and leveraging technology for supply chain visibility. The course will delve into topics such as supplier relationship management, ethical procurement, spare parts logistics, customs and trade compliance, sustainability in the supply chain, and the impact of digital transformation (e.g., blockchain, AI) on aviation logistics. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Aviation Procurement and Supply Chain Management, participants will be prepared to drive cost efficiencies, enhance operational reliability, and ensure the consistent availability of critical resources, thereby contributing significantly to their organization's success and safety.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Aviation Procurement Managers and Officers
• Supply Chain Managers and Specialists in Airlines, Airports, MROs
• Logistics and Inventory Managers in Aviation
• Contract Managers and Administrators
• Technical Purchasing Managers (Aircraft Parts)
• Materials Managers
• Finance Professionals involved in procurement
• Business Development Managers (for supplier partnerships)
• Quality Assurance and Compliance Officers (Supply Chain focus)
• Consultants specializing in aviation supply chain

Objectives

• Understand the strategic importance of procurement and supply chain management in aviation.
• Learn about the unique characteristics and challenges of the aviation supply chain.
• Acquire proficiency in strategic sourcing, supplier selection, and contract negotiation.
• Comprehend best practices in inventory management and spare parts logistics.
• Explore methodologies for managing supply chain risks and ensuring compliance.
• Understand the role of technology and digitalization in supply chain optimization.
• Gain insights into sustainable and ethical procurement practices in aviation.
• Develop a framework for measuring and improving supply chain performance.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Aviation Procurement and Supply Chain

• Defining procurement, supply chain management, and logistics in the aviation context.
• The unique complexities of the aviation supply chain: safety-critical, global, regulated, high-value.
• Key stakeholders and their roles: OEMs, MROs, airlines, lessors, suppliers, logistics providers.
• Cost drivers and strategic importance of efficient supply chain in aviation profitability.
• Current trends and challenges: geopolitical instability, lead times, talent shortages.

Module 2: Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)

• Developing a strategic sourcing plan for aviation components and services.
• Supplier identification, evaluation, and selection processes.
• Criteria for supplier pre-qualification and auditing (e.g., AS9100, EASA Part 145).
• Building and managing long-term supplier relationships.
• Supplier performance management and continuous improvement.

Module 3: Contract Management and Legal Aspects in Procurement

• Types of procurement contracts in aviation: fixed-price, cost-plus, time & materials.
• Key contractual clauses: terms and conditions, warranties, indemnities, penalties.
• Negotiation strategies and tactics for aviation procurement agreements.
• Legal and regulatory considerations for international procurement.
• Dispute resolution mechanisms in supply contracts.

Module 4: Inventory Management and Spare Parts Logistics

• Principles of inventory control: reorder points, safety stock, lead time management.
• Managing critical spares and rotables (repairable parts).
• Warehouse operations and storage best practices for aviation parts.
• Reverse logistics: managing returns, repairs, and recycling.
• Impact of maintenance programs on spare parts demand forecasting.

Module 5: Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance

• Importance of quality in aviation procurement: airworthiness, traceability.
• Compliance with aviation regulations (e.g., EASA Part 21, FAA AC 00-56).
• Counterfeit parts prevention and detection.
• Auditing suppliers for quality and compliance.
• Documentation requirements for purchased goods and services.

Module 6: Supply Chain Risk Management and Resilience

• Identifying and assessing supply chain risks: disruption, financial, geopolitical, cyber.
• Developing risk mitigation strategies: dual sourcing, buffer stock, insurance.
• Building supply chain resilience and agility.
• Business continuity planning for supply chain disruptions.
• Geopolitical impacts on global sourcing strategies.

Module 7: Digital Transformation in Aviation Supply Chain

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for procurement and inventory.
• E-procurement platforms and online marketplaces.
• Data analytics and predictive modeling for demand forecasting and optimization.
• Blockchain technology for supply chain transparency and traceability.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in inventory management and logistics.

Module 8: Sustainable and Ethical Procurement in Aviation

• Integrating sustainability principles into procurement decisions.
• Reducing environmental footprint in the supply chain.
• Ethical sourcing: labor practices, human rights, anti-slavery.
• Corporate social responsibility (CSR) in aviation procurement.
• Future trends: circular economy, green supply chain initiatives, new material sourcing.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training