CHINA Aviation FAA-PMA PARTS

With the continued expansion of China’s aviation industry – which is expected to reach a record 700 million annual passenger flights as of 2024 – and increasing demand for a wide variety of cost-effective aircraft components, there are growing market opportunities for U.S. producers of Federal Aviation Administration-Parts Manufacturer Approval (FAA-PMA) parts in China.

Compared to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, FAA-PMA parts offer comparable quality at potentially lower costs, while meeting compliance requirements. Following significant industry supply chain disruptions in China due to COVID and reduced air travel, Chinese airlines and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities are actively seeking solutions to meet growing demand and reduce operational expenses. Major Chinese airlines, such as China Southern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, and Shenzhen Airlines, have started introducing more FAA-PMA parts in the aviation ecosystem. Globally, the PMA market is projected to reach $15.6 billion by 2033, with significant contributions from all major aviation markets, including China.

While the business opportunities for FAA-PMA parts in China are significant, Chinese Government regulations on FAA-PMA parts are still evolving. For example, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) recently implemented stricter oversight, traceability, and quality control requirements on PMA parts, prioritizing the use of PMA parts from reputable manufacturers with a strong track record of both quality and compliance. For U.S. companies interested in supplying FAA-PMA parts to Chinese customers, it is essential to stay informed about the latest Chinese regulations, industry developments, and market trends. Engaging with local airlines (e.g., Air China, China Eastern, China Southern), MRO facilities (e.g., AMECO and GAMECO), regulators (e.g., CAAC), and industry associations can help U.S. aviation parts exporters better navigate these market complexities.

For more information, please contact Office.Guangzhou@trade.gov.