Berlin-based startup Aeroji, which is developing a “social marketplace” platform for aero-engine leasing and sales, has launched its beta test of the platform with a number of aftermarket companies and stakeholders. The four-month beta test will help Aeroji to develop and refine its functionality and to establish relationships within the aftermarket.

The cloud-based platform combines aspects of social networking apps with functionality for trading and leasing, enabling users to set up profiles for themselves and engine assets. Users on the platform can track, favorite and compare assets, chat with each other and upload documents related to shop visits or inspection reports.

During the beta test, Aeroji will work with stakeholders and five beta tester companies, which include Aeras Aviation, Kellstrom Aerospace, KG Aircraft Rotables, LCI.aero and Onur Material Services. According to Dimitri Martel, co-founder and managing director of Aeroji, the beta tester companies will provide valuable perspectives from both the engine aftermarket and related sectors, helping it to understand integration opportunities with airlines, lessors and MROs, as well as other products it is considering for the platform, such as APUs, landing gear, engine stands or full aircraft.

“One of the aspects that we will focus on in the near term based on initial feedback is the transparency towards transaction history, ownership and price of the asset. This is where the key performance indicators of the assets and the users come into play,” explains Martel. “Trust is very important for our customers. It helps in the decision-making process and also in the first interaction phase when the user needs to decide whether to follow a potential business deal or not.” He notes that information available through the platform, such as transaction history of users and asset history, will be extremely valuable in supporting decision processes.

The beta test is scheduled to last through March 2021 and Martel says interested companies still have the opportunity to participate, since Aeroji is hoping to gain as many insights from potential customers as possible during the development period.

Aeroji’s launch is scheduled for April 2021 and it will be available to customers on a monthly subscription-based plan. Beta testers will receive an additional free period bonus of up to three months.