Supply chain disruptions continue to extend aircraft downtime at US maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities in 2026, with parts shortages for narrowbody jet components among the most cited operational challenges facing the sector.

Industry data from Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook indicates the global commercial fleet is expected to grow to more than 48,000 aircraft over the next 20 years, with the US remaining one of the largest operating regions. That growth creates sustained demand for MRO services but also amplifies the impact of parts delays when supply chains cannot keep pace.

Specific components experiencing extended lead times include accessory gearboxes, high-pressure turbine blades, and avionics units tied to NextGen airspace compliance modifications. Operators report lead times on some components have stretched to 18 to 24 months, forcing maintenance planning teams to sequence work orders around parts availability rather than scheduled maintenance intervals.

The shortage has created secondary market opportunities, with serviceable used parts trading at premiums. Aftermarket parts brokers have seen demand increase as operators seek alternatives to new OEM parts. US FAA repair stations report that traceability documentation for used serviceable material is a growing compliance focus given the volume of parts moving through non-traditional supply channels.

Workforce constraints compound the problem. The FAA projects the US will need to certify approximately 18,000 new aviation maintenance technicians annually through 2031 to sustain current fleet operations and support anticipated fleet growth.

Source: Boeing Commercial Market Outlook -- https://www.boeing.com/commercial/market