NICHOLAS AIR founder and CEO Nicholas Correnti is scheduled to discuss parts access and engine programs at a business aviation convention Tuesday, raising concerns over delays that can leave smaller operators paying for grounded aircraft.
The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) program schedules Correnti with association leaders from 5:15 to 5:30 p.m. EDT (2:15–2:30 p.m. PDT) at the Horizon Stage, West Hall, Booth 4369, in the Las Vegas Convention Center. The agenda includes staffing, supply chains, component availability and regulatory issues. NICHOLAS AIR said Correnti also plans to discuss original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts disruptions and engine manufacturer program shortfalls.
Correnti has described parts delays as a financial burden for smaller operators. In an interview with Business Aviation Magazine, reposted by NICHOLAS AIR on Oct. 13, Correnti gave the example of an aircraft waiting six or eight months for a component. He said operators may still have financing payments due while an aircraft is grounded, a cost he said can weigh especially heavily on smaller businesses.
Correnti also argued that suppliers prioritize parts for new aircraft and called for a more balanced allocation. He said conditions differ from those five or 10 years ago. Those are his explanations for the supply problems he described.
NBAA lists the convention for Oct. 20–22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center and Henderson Executive Airport. Correnti's session is scheduled for the convention's opening day.
