In August 1998, Gulfstream Aerospace, outbidding at least two competitors, acquired Dallas-based K-C Aviation amid a great deal of speculation about motives, the tight supply of large bizjet completion capacity and the OEM's sometimes bitter competition with Bombardier.

As more companies have pursued Parts Manufacturing Authorization (PMA) from FAA, air carriers are increasingly finding alternatives to OEMs -- or even their designated suppliers -- for parts and components.