WEEKLY NEWS TECH, TALENT, AND TARIFFS BY Edward HARDY


stocks to avoid shortages.” Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are also grappling with


AS global fleets continue to expand, the demand for services in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector is growing rapidly. This surge in demand is met with the challenge of supply chain disruptions, particularly when it comes to acquiring the right parts. “Right now, we’re seeing that both MRO organisations and airlines


are taking additional steps to ensure maintenance activities are completed on time,” Toma Matutyte, Locatory.com’s CEO, expressed. “In the past, there was less risk associated with this, but now, both groups are making greater efforts to control their processes more effectively. “They’re working to secure better access to the market and evaluating all available options for booking slots, ensuring they have


balancing production for both new aircraft and older models, as some parts that were not originally included in production schedules now require extended manufacturing timelines. "OEMs are struggling to balance production for both new aircraft


and older generations," Matutyte stated. "Some parts now require extended manufacturing timelines. This has made the market even more critical for airlines and MROs. They need to stay informed about the current supply situation and adjust their strategies accordingly.


Cost pressures Beyond material shortages, labour challenges are another pressing issue for the MRO sector.


it’s


"The market is tight, and challenging


to attract


new talent," Matutyte said. "MRO


organisations are


offering higher salaries and even purchasing labour from other companies, but


this


leads to margin cuts. “Many companies are now


partnering with universities and schools to build a future


workforce, though


this remains a long-term solution.” As the sector grapples these


with issues, 02


timely access to spare parts and materials. These measures help keep maintenance schedules on track. The biggest issue we’re facing is that parts often don’t arrive on time, which causes delays in maintenance, repairs, and overhauls. This is leading companies to hold larger


technology is being seen as a key solution. New tools and technologies are reshaping the MRO industry. In addition


to AI, real-time data aggregators are playing a pivotal role in improving decision-making. "Companies are increasingly investing in innovative solutions to fill labour gaps,” Matutyte outlined. “They’re investing in systems that


handle some of the planning and tasks traditionally done by people. This shift toward automation is essential for maintaining efficiency."


Preparing for challenges With disruptions in challenges,


global supply chains continuing to create the diversification of operational hubs is becoming


increasingly important for MRO organisations. "Expanding both supply chains and operational hubs is crucial,"


Matutyte outlined. "Airlines, in particular, are adapting by building facilities in areas with optimal lead times and recruiting potential. “The location of key facilities and personnel is essential for


operational efficiency. However, new customs regulations and tariffs, especially in the US, are forcing airlines to reassess their supply agreements, which is expected to further disrupt the market and raise spare parts costs, particularly in regions like Canada.” The rising cost of spare parts is similarly pushing airlines to rethink


their maintenance strategies. "Airlines are particularly concerned about how these new tariffs will


Did You Know ? ABOUT THE MARCH OF THE CRABS BY Michael SALES


Do you enjoy the delights of Italian cuisine, such as Spaghetti alle vongole - Spaghetti with clams? If you do, make the most of it because it appears that a massive invasion of blue crabs from across the Atlantic has eaten most of Italy’s famous crustacea. Italy is the largest producer of clams in


Europe, and the third largest in the world after China and South Korea. Over half of this production occurs in aquafarms around the Po Delta. These unwelcome marine pirates, which have


no natural predators in Europe are not only harming the local economy, which employs several thousands in the fish farming trade, but are also ravaging the lucrative export market for this delicacy. The Atlantic blue crab, originally from the bays and estuaries


of the North Atlantic coast of the USA, has crossed to the Mediterranean and is spreading across several locations in Italy. The invasion is so serious that a special commissioner has been appointed to tackle it. The Atlantic blue crabs are consuming young clams and mussels, along with fish roe and other aquatic life, endangering future survival. Fedagripesca, estimates that


a fishing industry group, the species has already


caused roughly €100 million in economic losses across Italy, and ravaged up to 90 percent of young clams in the Po Delta region. A €2.9 million fund has been created to curb the blue crab invasion. But the local population has probably found the solution – eat them. These crabs have become a cherished delicacy. According to Francesco Tiralongo, a marine biologist at the University of Catania, who


has studied the blue crab phenomenon, rising water


temperatures in the Mediterranean


have made Sicilian waters a welcoming environment for such alien species. “Changing fish consumption habits in Sicily to include alien species like the blue crab is a necessary response to climate change and current ecological challenges. Transporting frozen clams by sea or air is relatively


straightforward, but delivering


them fresh requires great care. However, the resulting taste is worth the effort.


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