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Replacement Plastic: Lower Prices, More PMAs

Elevator tips, window trims, door panels and plastic parts that need to be removed for annual inspections might live the hardest lives, while others wear prematurely because they are prone to vibration. Parts that stick out might get hurt the most, and landing legs and fairings take a beating. Luckily, plastic parts can be repaired and some damage can be hidden, but eventually you run out of washers big enough to hide cracked or oversized holes. There's no set lifespan for a given piece of aircraft plastic, but in general about every 20 years or so most plastic has degraded enough to require replacement. On the other hand, weve seen 40-year-old aircraft with original plastic components that look they just rolled off the factory floor. For preserving interior plastic, using cabin sun shields and covers is a huge help.

Jim Cavanagh
Verified

When we looked at the market for replacement interior plastic components nearly five years ago, prices were inordinately expensive. But recent research (including visits to several suppliers) proved that prices are falling and it’s easier than ever to get high-quality replacements for worn and broken plastic parts.

The reason for the shift is partly because suppliers are earning more FAA PMAs (parts manufacturer approval), while pricing is based more on actual cost rather than inflated OEM pricing. But shopping for replacement plastic—especially for an aging interior—can be a complicated task. Here’s what to expect and how you might choose a supplier.

Jim Cavanagh