CFM International Launches Global Investigation into Suspected Counterfeit Aircraft Parts

CFM International, a leading engine maker supplying Airbus and Boeing, has initiated a worldwide investigation into suspected counterfeit aircraft parts. The company, jointly owned by GE Aerospace and Safran, aims to identify and replace thousands of parts with potentially false documentation. While there have been no reports of counterfeit parts causing harm, CFM is concerned that the use of fake paperwork could lead to the sale of old or unsafe components.

The investigation was triggered when TAP Air Portugal’s maintenance arm raised concerns about the authenticity of a part it had acquired from UK distributor AOG Technics. CFM discovered that the documentation accompanying the part contained a false signature, prompting further scrutiny. Within a short period, similar discrepancies were found by over 30 organizations worldwide, including China’s regulator.

So far, CFM has identified 126 engines that have been affected by the suspected counterfeit parts. The company is in the process of replacing these components and continues to review documents provided by AOG Technics following a court order. CFM has also revealed that it unknowingly purchased some of the suspect parts for its own premises.

The investigation has shed light on a relatively unregulated sector of the aviation industry, highlighting the need for additional oversight and regulation. While aircraft part developers are subject to strict regulations, warehouses and distributors often operate with self-certification. This gap in regulation has raised concerns among industry experts and policymakers alike.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States sets standards for third-party accreditations of distributors. However, the FAA’s Office of Inspector General has previously called for better oversight of distributors’ self-evaluation systems. The FAA maintains extensive guidance to prevent the installation of unapproved parts and runs a program to identify “Suspected Unapproved Parts.”

The parts industry asserts that cases of unapproved parts entering the supply chain are extremely rare. Industry associations, such as the Aviation Suppliers Association (ASA), provide widely adopted accreditations and conduct regular audits to ensure compliance. AOG Technics, the UK distributor at the center of the investigation, has never been certified by ASA.

While the investigation is ongoing, CFM International remains committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of its engines. The company’s swift response and collaboration with global organizations demonstrate its dedication to maintaining the highest standards in the aviation industry.

In conclusion, CFM International’s global investigation into suspected counterfeit aircraft parts highlights the need for enhanced regulation and oversight in the industry. By addressing these concerns and implementing stricter controls, the aviation sector can further safeguard the safety and integrity of its operations.