PMA parts (Parts Manufacturer Approval parts) are replacement or modification parts for aircraft that are manufactured by third-party companies and approved by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) or EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), and its authorized design organizations (EASA Part 21J), to meet specific safety and performance standards.
PMA parts are an alternative to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and are widely used in the aviation industry for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities.
Key points about PMA parts
PMA parts are approved through a rigorous process by the design organizations, ensuring they meet the same, or even higher airworthiness standards as OEM parts. The approval certifies that the part is safe, reliable, and compatible with the specific aircraft for which it’s intended.
Examples of PMA parts
Aircraft Panels
Aircraft panels, especially interior panels, undergo significant wear and tear during daily operations. Interior panels such as sidewalls, overhead bin covers, floor or cargo panels are constantly exposed to passenger handling, cleaning, and general usage, which leads to scuffs, dents, and other forms of damage. As a result, panels are regularly replaced during base maintenance checks or when cabins are refurbished. Their high turnover rate makes panels an ideal candidate for PMA parts, offering a more affordable option for airlines without compromising quality.
Due to their simple design, easy of certification and production, the PMA options is significantly more affordable for operators having the same safety and quality requirements.
Interior Parts
On addition to the Aircraft Panels other interior parts can be designed, certified and manufactured with the objective to replace the OEM with the goal to reduce costs, improve lead times and durability. Parts such:
Seat components: Upholstery covers, armrests, tray tables, plastic fairings.
Overhead Bin components: Bin doors, latches, hinges, handles, dividers
Lavatory components: Faucets, Mirrors, Toilet seats, Soap Dispensers, Towel Holders, etc.
Other: reading lights, PSU fillers, cabin partitions, etc.
Consumables & Expendables
Consumables are regularly replaced during routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and prevent failures. Between these we can find Filters (Fuel, oil, air), Oils and lubricants, gasked and seals, etc.
