Facing interruptions in the aerospace supply chain, how can you maintain production schedules seamlessly?

Implementing these strategies can help airlines to navigate supply chain interruptions more effectively, ensuring that production schedules remain as seamless as possible despite the challenges: 1) Diversify Suppliers 2) Build Strategic Partnerships with them 3) VERY IMPORTANT -Inventory Management 4) Risk Management and Contingency Planning 5) Supply Chain Visibility 6) Flexibility in Production 7) Investment in Technology -Use automation and AI to predict disruptions and optimize production schedules dynamically 8) Collaboration with Industry Peers 9) VERY IMPORTANT- Government and Regulatory Engagement 10) Continuous Improvement 11) Financial Resilience // Cost Management & control + Insurance.

By identifying potential points of failure and assessing both the likelihood and impact of disruptions, businesses can preemptively address vulnerabilities. This proactive approach allows for the development of contingency plans, such as diversifying suppliers, increasing inventory levels of critical components, or establishing alternative transportation routes. Implementing these strategies ensures a steady flow of materials, thereby minimizing the risk of production delays and enhancing overall supply chain resilience. This systematic preparation ultimately contributes to the stability and efficiency of production operations, safeguarding against unforeseen challenges.

Acting in a co-engineering approach, during design we study also how to standardize design of common subsystems of our satellites and starting from this point we create list of components common to different products and start with procurement of them, considering the possibility that on product could use the component of an other product due to priority from the schedule point of view. This approach is permitting to share risks among different programs.

Maintaining strong relationships with your suppliers is vital for managing supply chain interruptions effectively. Regular communication keeps you informed about any potential disruptions in their operations that might impact your production. Close collaboration with suppliers allows for the negotiation of flexible terms, enabling adjustments in order schedules or expedited deliveries when needed. A partnership based on trust and cooperation fosters more resilient supply chains, as it encourages mutual support and problem-solving in times of crisis. By investing in these relationships, businesses can enhance their adaptability and ensure a smoother, more reliable supply chain operation.

Effective inventory management is crucial for overcoming supply chain challenges. By maintaining a strategic stockpile of essential components, you can cushion the impact of supply disruptions. This isn't about hoarding parts indiscriminately; it's about smart inventory planning based on usage patterns and lead times. This approach ensures that you have the necessary components when needed, minimizing downtime and keeping production on track. Smart inventory management enables businesses to be more agile and responsive to unexpected disruptions, ultimately safeguarding operational efficiency.

Flexibility in your manufacturing processes is essential for absorbing supply chain shocks. This can involve cross-training employees on different tasks, implementing modular design principles that allow for the use of alternative parts, or adopting technologies like 3D printing for on-demand component production. By having adaptable processes, you can quickly pivot in response to supply chain issues without significant delays in your production schedule. This flexibility ensures that your operations remain resilient and can continue to meet production goals even when faced with unexpected disruptions.

Advanced software tools for supply chain management provide real-time visibility into your inventory and logistics operations. Technologies like predictive analytics can forecast potential disruptions, enabling you to take preemptive action. Investing in such technologies transforms your supply chain into a more agile and responsive system. By harnessing the power of technology, businesses can improve decision-making, streamline operations, and reduce the impact of unforeseen disruptions.

Utilising Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) systems helps optimise production schedules by simulating various scenarios & adjusting plans in real-time. In our aerospace facility, we deployed an APS system that integrated with our ERP. This system allowed us to model different supply chain disruptions and their impacts on production. When a supplier of composite materials experienced delays, the APS system helped us reschedule production runs and allocate available resources efficiently, minimising downtime & maintaining our delivery commitments.

Total vertical integration. Yes, it’s hard. Yes, it requires deep expertise. Yes, it’s not something that runs on autopilot… It is a robust and successful strategy, proven by many disruptive companies. To name a few: General Atomics, SpaceX, Anduril…

When it comes to manufacturing aeroplanes one has to keep in mind the quality and conformity of the spare parts especially reminiscing the disaster that happened to a Concord where the whole production was pulled out. It is a question why such a calamity happened despite the plethora of knowledge that prevailed during that era. Is it the Scientific knowledge in Aeronautical Engineering that has to be questioned or the tendency of human error ? The question still remains a mystery !

Design products with alternative materials or components that can be substituted if the primary materials become unavailable. Parts standardisation and using modular designs can also be a way to enhance the resiliency of supply chain and maintain a seamless production schedules despite potential disruptions.

To maintain production programs smoothly amid aerospace supply chain disruptions, it is recommended to adopt the paradigm of "Digital resilience". This involves using advanced technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), artificial intelligence, and predictive analytics to monitor and anticipate potential disruptions. Additionally, diversifying suppliers and implementing dual sourcing strategies help mitigate risks, ensuring a constant and adaptable supply to unexpected changes.