Sustainability and Savings: The Casefor Used Serviceable Material
Adopting Used Serviceable Material (USM) has emerged as a compelling strategy in the
aviation maintenance and operations sector, blending sustainability with cost-effectiveness.
USM refers to aircraft parts or components that are deemed fit for reuse after undergoing
thorough inspection, repair, and recertification processes. This approach extends the lifecycle of
aircraft components and reduces the industry’s environmental footprint by curbing the need for
new manufacturing. By promoting the reuse of existing resources, USM contributes to resource
conservation, waste reduction, and energy savings within the aviation sector. Moreover, using
USM translates into tangible cost savings for operators, offering reduced procurement costs,
lower maintenance expenses, and enhanced inventory management efficiency. Thus,
embracing USM presents a dual benefit of sustainability and savings, making it an increasingly
attractive option in the aviation industry. This article explores the significance of USM,
highlighting its role in promoting sustainability and generating savings in the aviation industry.
Understanding Used Serviceable Material
Used Serviceable Material refers to aircraft parts or components that have been previously
utilized but are still deemed fit for use after undergoing proper inspection, repair, and
recertification processes. These parts are sourced from retired aircraft, surplus inventories, or
dismantled equipment.
Sustainability Benefits of Used Serviceable Material
● Resource Conservation: Utilizing USM reduces the demand for new manufacturing,
thereby conserving natural resources and minimizing environmental impact.
● Waste Reduction: By extending the lifespan of aircraft parts, USM contributes to waste
reduction and promotes a circular economy within the aviation sector.
● Energy Savings: Refurbishing USM requires less energy than manufacturing new parts,
resulting in lower carbon emissions and energy consumption.
● Reduced Procurement Costs: USM typically costs less than brand-new parts, allowing
operators to achieve significant cost savings in their procurement budgets.
● Maintenance Cost Reduction: Utilizing USM can lead to lower maintenance costs, as
these parts are often available at a fraction of the price of new components without
compromising quality or performance.
● Inventory Management Efficiency: Incorporating USM into inventory management
strategies enables operators to optimize their spare parts inventory, reduce storage
costs, and minimize excess inventory levels.
Challenges and Considerations
While USM offers numerous benefits, there are challenges and considerations to be mindful of:
● Quality Assurance: Ensuring the quality and airworthiness of USM requires rigorous
inspection and certification processes to meet regulatory standards.
● Traceability: Maintaining proper documentation and traceability of USM is essential for
tracking the history and usage of components throughout their lifecycle.
● Supplier Reliability: Partnering with reputable suppliers and distributors is important to
ensure the reliability and authenticity of USM sourced for aircraft maintenance and
operations.
Conclusion
Used Serviceable Material represents a compelling opportunity for the aviation industry to
embrace sustainability practices while achieving significant cost savings. Aviation stakeholders
can make strides towards a more sustainable and economically viable future by harnessing the
value of USM and integrating it into maintenance and procurement strategies. As the industry
continues to evolve, the adoption of USM will play a pivotal role in shaping a greener and more
efficient aviation ecosystem.
