About APS
Founded in 1953, Aircraft Propeller Service (APS) began as a modest propeller repair shop located near Chicago. The company has since evolved, spurred by the advent of turboprop-powered aircraft, to specialize in the overhaul and repair of turboprop propeller blades. APS now operates out of facilities in Chicago, USA; Sao Paulo, Brazil; and Subang, Malaysia, offering a wide array of services to the global regional aircraft market. The acquisition of a former Goodrich MRO facility in 2016 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, marked a significant milestone, transforming it into a cutting-edge propeller service center and establishing APS’s international presence. Furthermore, in 2023, APS expanded its reach to Southwest Asia by opening a service center in Subang, near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, enhancing its service offerings in the region.
APS Expands into Aircraft Teardown and USM Market
In 2021, APS ventured into the aircraft teardown and Used Serviceable Materials (USM) market, beginning with the acquisition of an ATR42-300 airframe. This expansion allowed APS to apply its deep knowledge of ATR aircraft, especially their propulsion systems, to develop and refine its teardown processes. By recovering and remarketing key reusable components, APS successfully launched itself into the USM market, catering to ATR operators worldwide. Building on this success, APS acquired additional Embraer jets, specifically the E170 and E190 models, in late 2022. The teardown of these aircraft, completed within six months, enabled APS to supplement its USM inventory with highly sought-after E-jet components, available for immediate delivery.
Most recently, in 2024, APS further demonstrated its commitment to the USM market by purchasing and dismantling an E195 from Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras S/A. This teardown was executed by Assent Aviation Services in Tucson, Arizona, with APS leveraging its prior experience maintaining Azul’s propeller systems to ensure the quality and maintenance of the E195 components.
Quality Assurance and Customer Satisfaction
Chris Hutchings, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at APS, emphasizes the company’s dedication to doing things right the first time, with safety as a paramount concern. As an AS9100D certified organization and an OEM-licensed repair station, APS extends the same trusted quality to the USM market that it has provided in the propeller market for over 70 years. This commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has been fundamental in fostering strong, lasting relationships with their clientele.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, APS aims to significantly scale its teardown and USM operations. The company plans to acquire and dismantle five to six ATR or Embraer airframes annually over the next five years. This ambitious goal is set to expand APS’s inventory by an additional 1,500 aircraft components by 2024 and to enhance its network of preferred E-jet repair vendors to manage the expected increase in ‘As Removed’ materials needing recertification.
Conclusion
As newer models of ATR and Embraer regional jets become operational and older models continue in service due to rising demand, APS anticipates a growing need for spare parts. The company is poised to capitalize on this demand, ensuring a steady supply of key components while maintaining high service standards in its core propeller overhaul business. This strategic expansion into the USM market not only diversifies APS’s service offerings but also reinforces its position as a leader in the regional aircraft service industry.