Jet Engine Overhaul Market Surge Amidst Challenges

The commercial jet engine overhaul market has reached a staggering $58 billion, with costs for overhauls ranging from $4 million to over $15 million, depending on complexity. Airliners need to maintain engines that typically last over 30 years, requiring overhauling every 5 to 8 years. Post-pandemic challenges have compounded, resulting in supply chain issues that have delayed maintenance times for engines from 60-75 days to over 200 days. Airlines like American Airlines are responding by increasing their internal capabilities and are projected to boost their engine overhauls by 60% this year. The market is largely dominated by major players such as GE Aerospace, Pratt and Whitney, and Rolls-Royce, with companies increasingly focusing on engine parts and services as a revenue source—over 70% of GE’s commercial engine revenue comes from this segment. As new and more efficient engines are introduced, maintenance costs are expected to rise due to advanced technology and higher operational temperatures. Current projections estimate that roughly 10,000 shop visits will occur in 2024 in the U.S. alone, indicating a robust demand for engine repairs. Notably, the complexity of jet engines likens to assembling a highly intricate puzzle where every piece must fit perfectly, reflecting the delicate balance of efficiency and safety in aviation.