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AerSale Cites Aging Fleets and Engine Shortages Driving Aviation Aftermarket Demand

May 28, 2026By ePlane AI

AerSale

Aging Aircraft Fleets

Engine Shortages

AerSale Highlights Aging Fleets and Engine Shortages as Key Drivers of Aviation Aftermarket Demand

AerSale (NASDAQ: ASLE) Chief Financial Officer Martin Garmendia has identified a confluence of factors sustaining robust demand in the aviation aftermarket. Speaking at Jefferies’ second annual MRO Summit, Garmendia emphasized that aging aircraft fleets, persistent engine shortages, and ongoing supply chain constraints are collectively extending the operational lives of existing aircraft. These dynamics, coupled with strong passenger demand and delays in new aircraft deliveries, are intensifying the need for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services across the industry.

Integrated Business Model and Operational Segments

AerSale distinguishes itself through an integrated approach that spans three core aftermarket activities: trading and leasing mid-life aircraft and engines, dismantling assets to supply used serviceable material (USM), and operating MRO facilities. Garmendia underscored the company’s unique positioning, stating, “We do all that as one company, which gives us optionality that pure-play asset managers or pure-play MRO shops just don’t have.”

The company’s operations are organized into two primary segments. The Asset Management Solutions segment focuses on aircraft and engine trading, leasing, and USM. AerSale typically acquires mid-life assets—generally between 12 and 15 years old—that have surpassed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) maintenance or warranty periods. These assets are then evaluated for leasing, sale, or parting out. The TechOps segment comprises six MRO facilities, including three heavy maintenance sites located on airports in Arizona, New Mexico, and Tennessee, alongside three component MRO centers in Miami and Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

Garmendia noted that AerSale currently maintains significant unused capacity within its MRO operations, enabling growth without the need for substantial new capital expenditures. This capacity, combined with the company’s ability to monetize aging assets through multiple channels, provides a competitive advantage over firms that specialize exclusively in either asset management or MRO services.

Market Conditions and Demand Pressures

The aviation aftermarket continues to experience exceptionally strong demand for aircraft, engines, and parts. Garmendia attributed this to ongoing OEM delivery delays, challenges with geared turbofan engines, and a global fleet that is steadily aging. Severe engine shortages and supply chain disruptions have resulted in extended maintenance backlogs and escalating costs. In certain instances, the value of specific aircraft components now surpasses that of the aircraft itself.

AerSale benefits from its existing inventory and available MRO capacity, positioning the company favorably amid a competitive landscape. Industry peers such as MTU Aero Engines have also reported robust aftermarket demand and increased commercial MRO revenues. Nonetheless, Garmendia acknowledged the intense competition for assets that can be rapidly deployed into service.

Growth Drivers and Financial Performance

Used serviceable material has become a significant growth driver for AerSale, now representing slightly more than half of the Asset Management business. The segment generated revenues exceeding $120 million in the previous year. Garmendia highlighted the company’s strategic expansion of its USM inventory, which meets strong operator demand for parts typically priced 20 to 30 percent below new components.

Outlook and Risk Considerations

While AerSale has yet to observe a tangible impact from rising fuel prices or potential reductions in airline capacity, Garmendia cautioned that a prolonged downturn could eventually dampen maintenance demand. He noted that any significant weakening would require a sustained period of reduced operations before airlines begin grounding or retiring aircraft. For the time being, as long as aircraft remain in active service, the demand for maintenance and engine support is expected to remain elevated despite ongoing industry challenges.

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IndiGo Approves Up to $450 Million Aircraft and Engine Acquisition via IFSC Unit

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Airports Express Concerns Over Electric Aircraft

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Leonardo Launches New Helicopter Hub in the UK

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Sopra Steria Plans Expansion into Aerospace Sector

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Ukraine Plans to Acquire 20 Gripen E/F Fighter Jets

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