Changing Aircraft Management companies can be a complex and time- consuming challenge. Our team at Avionco has been through this many, many times over the years and we’ve seen multiple scenarios – some that are relatively simple and others that present challenges at every turn.
- Sometimes an owner’s business needs require them to switch their jet to a new aircraft management provider at the end of a contract that has gone well.
- Sometimes the move is necessary because the owner has not been satisfied with the service provided.
- More challenging still is when an owner fires an existing aircraft management provider and decides to move to a new one mid-contract.
- In many cases you may also need to move to a new aircraft registry.
Regardless of the scenario, here are 4 key steps that will help you make the move as painless as possible:
- Get professional help. Hire a team of experts who understand and can review your current management contract, determine the maintenance status of the aircraft and develop a customized transition plan built on a framework of key milestones designed to make your transition efficient and timely.
- Process is critical. Select a new partner who can not only manage the aircraft to your satisfaction but who also has specific processes in place for seamless transition that delivers safety first and provides complete cost transparency. Once you’ve discussed your needs, ask them to itemize the detailed steps they will make to expedite the transition. This will help you understand if they are up to the task.
- Be decisive and execute your plan. Once you’ve made the decision to switch, you need to move forward decisively. Determine roles and responsibilities with your new aircraft management service, ensure your objectives are agreed to and that you both have a clear understanding of documented next steps with a crystal-clear timeline.
- Understand transition to a new registry. Choose an aircraft management partner who can expedite the switch starting with engaging the registry to schedule an airworthiness audit of your aircraft. Ensure your new provider has an in-house auditor who can work in conjunction with the registry auditor and is able to travel to the aircraft for the 2-3 day process.
Changing providers can be a relatively smooth process if you have prepared properly and have the right people to help you. The end result should ultimately be better service and responsiveness that keeps your aircraft in service and ready at all times.