Aircraft APU Overhaul and Repair: A Market Overview
Auxiliary power units are critical aircraft systems that provide electrical power and pneumatic air for engine start, cabin climate control, and ground operations. The global APU aftermarket — encompassing overhaul, repair, and component exchange — represents the largest segment of the aircraft APU market, accounting for roughly 65% of total APU spending.
Key APU Platforms in Service
| APU Model | Aircraft Platform | OEM |
|---|---|---|
| GTCP131-9A | Airbus A320 Family | Honeywell |
| GTCP131-9B | Boeing 737NG / 737 MAX | Honeywell |
| GTCP331-200/250 | Boeing 767 / 757 | Honeywell |
| GTCP331-500 | Boeing 777 | Honeywell |
| APS3200 | Airbus A320neo Family | Pratt & Whitney Canada |
| APS5000 | Boeing 787 | Pratt & Whitney Canada |
| GTCP36-150 | Regional / Business Jets | Honeywell |
OEM vs. Independent Repair Channels
Airlines and lessors face a strategic choice between OEM-exclusive repair networks and independent Part 145 shops. OEMs such as Honeywell control approximately half the APU MRO market through proprietary repair data and authorized service agreements. Independent shops — including specialists like TurbineAero, Revima, and EPCOR — compete on turnaround time, pricing flexibility, and multi-platform coverage. Many independent providers hold direct OEM authorizations, blurring the traditional OEM-vs-independent divide.
Certification and Compliance
APU repair stations must hold applicable regulatory approvals for their operating region:
- FAA Part 145
- Required for operators under U.S. registry. The FAA maintains a searchable database of all certified repair stations.
- EASA Part 145
- Required for EU-registered aircraft. Mutual recognition agreements with the FAA simplify dual certification.
- CAAC / Other National Authorities
- Operators in China, India, and other markets require additional national approvals.
Selection Criteria for MRO Planners
When sourcing APU repair capability, key evaluation factors include: certified scope of work for specific APU models, guaranteed turnaround times (critical for AOG situations), availability of serviceable exchange units, OEM authorization level, and geographic proximity to minimize logistics costs and time.