End-of-life services specialist AerFin plans to double staff at its recently opened Miami storage facility by the end of 2024 as its expansion in the U.S. continues.
In April, the UK-headquartered company announced the opening of a new 35,000 ft.2 facility in Florida, which was initially staffed by 12 people. By the end of this year, as the operation ramps up, AerFin expects to have 24 people working at the site with roles in sales, warehouse, quality, and supply chain functions.
The facility was set up to hold parts inventory for Embraer E-Jet, Airbus, and Boeing aircraft, as well as to store GE CF34, CFM International CFM56 and IAE V2500 engine material.
Jackie Fernandez, head of Americas at AerFin, says the site has capacity to store up to 12 engines at one time for lease or trade and expects both engine and airframe materials to be in quick rotation.
“As well as stocking a large selection of high demand component and line replaceable units for regional and narrowbody platforms and CF34, CFM56 and V2500 engine material, we will be able to house major assets like auxiliary power units and landing gears,” she says.
Fernandez cites the close proximity to Miami International Airport and the area's status as an aviation hub as driving factors behind the company's choice in location. For example, many of AerFin's network of repair vendors are based in Miami, which will help cater to the facility's repair needs.
She also expects a direct impact on AerFin's supply chain. “Having quick access to inventory in the region can greatly improve response times and overall customer satisfaction,” she says. “Additionally, cutting down on shipping costs by being closer to the vendor network will lead to cost savings that can ultimately be passed on to customers and make our services more competitive.”
