A scan of recent supply chain- and logistics-related product announcements underscores that aviation is placing a premium on keeping real-time tabs on high-value goods. On the production line, manufacturers are marking parts with tags designed to help everyone from line mechanics to vendors. In the aftermarket, using sophisticated sensors to monitor parts and key shipments—from components sent to bail out a grounded aircraft to the tooling needed to do the job—is becoming bigger business.

As the only all-new engine developed for one of the most ambitious aircraft models built in the jet age, General Electric's GE90 family has more than held its own. Nearly three out of every four Boeing 777s delivered are powered by GE90s, and the percentage will only grow—every undelivered current-generation 777 listed in Boeing's backlog is slated to have GE power as well. Boeing figures show 991 777s delivered through Sept. 30, including 730 powered by GE90s. Another 328 777s—a mix of -200LRs, -300ERs and freighters—remain on order.

Rapid advances in technology and materials, along with intensified competition for passenger loyalty, are driving a wave of innovation and investment in aircraft interiors. The hallmarks of today's newest cabins are improved materials, hardware design and technologies that enable faster, more effective maintenance. In the past few months alone, major carriers have announced these actions:

The global nature of aviation maintenance means technicians from different countries and cultures can suddenly find themselves working side by side. When this occurs, maintenance organizations face an added layer of complexity in the area of human factors.

Integrating process management software into an MRO operation is no longer cutting-edge—it is core to an efficient operation's success. MRO providers benefit from a range of choices, from products developed by providers that want to solve their own problems to technology companies that look at aircraft maintenance management challenges and see endless opportunities to help a surging part of the aviation industry. 1. Wings Aloft Supplier: Applied Database Technology

Four-hangar MRO center will accommodate Lion's fleet growth as well as new customers

Washington FAA officials have spent considerable energy this year warning industry that shrinking resources tied to federal budget cuts would put the squeeze on myriad airworthiness approvals, new product certifications and related tasks that keep aviation going—and innovating. One way to ensure your projects are moving, the officials says, is to take on more of the FAA's work by creating an Organization Designation Authorization (ODA).

To meet explosive fleet growth, Asia-Pacific LCCs expand their maintenance capabilities.