Posted on November 10, 2025 Jacob Luiz
When it comes to the commercial aviation sector, aircraft engine performance is often at the heart of every successful flight operation. Among the industry’s most recognized manufacturers of these powerplants, Safran Aircraft Engines stands out in particular for its strong reputation across commercial, regional, and military sectors. When working with Safran engines, a common decision that operators will be faced with is how to best optimize maintenance costs without ever compromising on safety or performance.
One major element of determining the best strategy is whether Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) parts are best, each offering distinct benefits and potential drawbacks that are important to be aware of. In this blog, we will provide an overview of PMA and OEM parts, centering our discussion on which option may be best for airline maintenance programs that involve Safran engine parts.
When an aircraft undergoes maintenance and various components need to be replaced as a result of wear, aging, or dysfunctions, operators typically have two main sourcing pathways to choose from: OEM parts or PMA parts. Both serve essential roles in the aviation industry, but their differences in manufacturing, certification, and cost structure can significantly influence maintenance strategies.
As their full name would suggest, OEM parts are those produced directly by the aircraft or engine manufacturer that originally created the platform in question. In some cases, OEMs may also be an authorized partner producing items in strict accordance with original design specifications. These components are highly valued, as they are identical to those installed when an aircraft is first delivered.
The Benefits of OEM Parts
Despite these benefits, OEM parts often come with higher costs and may involve longer lead times, especially when demand is high or supply chains are constrained. In some cases, OEM parts may also not be available if they are no longer produced.
Unlike OEM options, PMA parts are produced by third-party manufacturers who have received FAA approval to create replacement items that meet or exceed the performance of original designs. To gain this approval, PMA producers must demonstrate that their offerings provide equivalent levels of airworthiness, quality, and safety through rigorous testing and documentation.
The Benefits of PMA Parts
Despite these advantages, some operators still remain cautious about PMA adoption due to perceptions about approval complexity or limited OEM warranty compatibility.
When it comes to Safran Aircraft Engine systems specifically, those that lean toward OEM options are generally operators that have newer fleets or aircraft under manufacturer maintenance contracts. This is because OEM components ensure seamless compatibility with existing systems and software configurations, reducing the risk of unplanned maintenance or integration issues.
Safran’s OEM parts also carry the manufacturer’s full endorsement, meaning operators benefit from direct technical support, easier access to upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives that are based on in-service data. Moreover, airlines participating in Safran’s “Support by the Hour” (SBH) programs or similar service arrangements often gain additional cost predictability and operational efficiency through OEM-exclusive support.
While OEM parts offer peace of mind, PMA solutions have evolved significantly, earning widespread adoption among airlines seeking long-term cost savings and operational flexibility. PMA parts suppliers also adhere to stringent FAA approval standards and, in many cases, employ cutting-edge manufacturing techniques that rival or even surpass OEM specifications. Because of this, airlines operating mature fleets or aircraft nearing end-of-life cycles can turn to PMA parts to maintain airworthiness affordably.
For example, replacing Safran engine parts like seals, bearings, or turbine hardware with approved PMA equivalents can help operators extend asset service life while minimizing downtime and expense. PMA utilization has also become more common in component-level maintenance programs, where operators may mix OEM and PMA parts strategically depending on system criticality and operational goals.
Whether an operator prefers OEM components for guaranteed compatibility or PMA parts for cost-effective maintenance, working with a trusted procurement partner is important to guarantee full traceability and quality assurance. This is where ASAP Aerospace comes in, our website providing access to an extensive selection of Safran engine parts and OEM alternatives to address diverse operational needs.
Through our database of verified part numbers and export-controlled items, we simplify the fulfillment process for maintenance professionals and procurement specialists alike. All items we carry are also sourced from vetted manufacturers and suppliers, each purchase being delivered with relevant certifications and documentation to ensure compliance with airworthiness standards. Take the time to explore our curated catalogs today, knowing that our team is just a call or email away from providing hands-on support.
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