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P&W Engines Spring 2008 - International Edition
Tips For A Smooth Pratt & Whitney Engine Overhaul in the U.S.
Duncan Aviation has managed many Pratt & Whitney engine overhauls from China and other countries and we are happy to share our tips with global operators. The following are important things to keep in mind when bringing engines to the U.S. for overhaul:
Communication
The language barrier can be one of the biggest challenges to overcome. We recommend choosing a facility that can provide an in-house agent or interpreter who speaks both languages. Good communication is essential for the entire process from the initial negotiation to the final invoice. An interpreter will help avoid any misunderstandings.
Business Culture
Another important point is understanding the differences in business culture between the two countries. The way business is conducted internationally may be very different from the way business is done in the U.S. For example: when the business is verbally awarded to the service provider by Chinese operators, signed paperwork may not be necessary for the operator, though it is necessary for the service provider to schedule the work. Keeping the lines of communication open and having people in place that understand the requirements of each party is a key to success.
International Logistics
When sending engines overseas there are many things to consider, including freight, customs, tariffs, transferring funds. Selecting a service provider with experience with all of these things is very important to avoid any delays. Any one part of the process, if not correct, may cause a lot of unnecessary work and delays. An experienced service provider will understand these requirements and will be able to save you time and money.
Engine Visit
Duncan Aviation encourages our customers to visit the overhaul shop with us during the overhaul. Visiting the engine at disassembly is a great opportunity to see the parts and ask questions about how the overhaul will continue. Visiting the engine may not be necessary in all cases with the technology today to send reports and photos by email. However, a site visit is a great way to build a relationship with your service provider. It is also a great educational experience and helps with understanding the condition of your engine.
Experience
As more corporate Pratt & Whitney powered aircraft are delivered globally, more will be coming to the U.S. for service. As a result, more service companies will be offering management of the process. With more choices, your assesment of the service provider’s experience will be very important to the success of each event. We recommend that you find someone with a deep understanding of the process and the special needs of the international customer.
If you have any questions on managing your engine event in the United States, please contact me at:
Duncan Aviation Resources
Duncan Aviation provides several free resources to business aircraft owners and operators.
The Duncan Intelligence is a technical publication with articles written by our tech reps. You can subscribe to your choice of 10 different publications.
We also recently released Straight Talk about Satcom & HSD. Available online and in print, the book provides insight into the complex aircraft communication and data market. We also developed an online planning tool to help operators select the best Satcom and High Speed Data options for their aircraft.
The Duncan Debrief magazine is an industry publication with stories about service for the most common business aircraft. You can subscribe to all of these at www.DuncanAviation.aero/publications.
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