Aging GA Fleet Faces Growing Aircraft Parts Challenge

# CPA News Synopsis

A recent survey reveals that Colorado GA maintenance professionals face escalating challenges sourcing parts for aging aircraft, with 66% expecting conditions to worsen further. The problem stems from the average GA fleet age of 53 years—well before modern supply chains—leading to discontinued parts, consolidation among suppliers, and 72% of mechanics dissatisfied with pricing and 59% frustrated by long lead times. Better access to technical documentation and parts catalogs could help reduce the time mechanics spend hunting for alternatives and could ease the cost burden on aircraft owners keeping older airplanes airworthy.