When you purchase an aircraft engine, there are many factors to consider.

Your engines are a critical asset to support your operation. It has a long-term impact on how you generate revenue and reduce operational costs.

No surprise there.

There are two essential terms that you MUST keep in mind as you go through your procurement process. 

The first is partner, and the second is investment.

Thinking of these terms as you go through your engine acquisition, they will help guide you to make the right decision that supports you and your operation — over the long term. 

Develop a relationship with your trusted aircraft engine partner. 

A trusted partner is someone who helps you achieve your operational goals. They also support you as a person — a human.

Every operation and individual is different. A trusted partner understands this and is flexible to adapt based on your unique needs.

An aircraft engine partner isn't someone who tries to sell you an engine to make a quick sale. 

When you have a question, they take your call, resolve issues as they arise, and understand your operation as if it was their own.

You'll know when you've found the right partner.

It's no doubt you've experienced lousy support before. People take days/weeks to quote you, they're unresponsive, and they care more about the sale than helping you deliver a positive result for your company. 

When you develop these relationships, over time, they'll feel as though they're a part of you and your company. You may even call them your sister company. 

Don't let weak relationships determine the results of your aircraft engine investment.

Take the time to build a partnership with someone who can support all your aircraft engine needs.

Determine your investment level. 

If you're looking for the cheapest investment, then you're going to get a poor return-on-investment.

When you buy an aircraft engine below the fair market value, be concerned. You're investing in an asset that may not be up to your technical standards.

It's also unlikely you'll get the support you need before, during, and after your purchase.

An excellent investment is one that has a positive return on investment.

Only you and your operation can determine what that means, but it's imperative you think about it and discuss it with your material partner.

Many factors play into what a great investment is. 

Your trusted partner is someone who will help you execute on your engine investment goals. 

The key idea here is you're investing in an asset that helps you generate long-term revenue.  Don't lose sight of that. 

If you underinvest, you could incur more costs over time. 

Make the right decision with the right partner, and you'll maximize your return, every time. 

Purchase your aircraft engine based on your investment level.

Once you've determined your investment level, your partner will pair you with the appropriate aircraft engine. 

We have a client who wants to purchase a JT8D-17 for less than $130,000. 

Unfortunately, we can't support this investment level as we know an engine at this price, will be technically weak and come with near-term issues.

This could lead to higher costs over time due to unplanned removals. 

You may want to invest in a high-quality engine, with higher cycles remaining and a great EGT margin, so you'll invest more. 

Once you know your investment level, you can make the best decision that meets your current engine needs. 

Don't be tricked into thinking price is the same as cost.

If you invest in an asset that has a lower long-term cost, with a higher price, your operation will benefit from better reliability over many years.

As you begin to purchase your aircraft engine, remember to start with a trusted aircraft engine partner, determine your investment level, and look for an asset that meets your operational needs.