What is the control period for parts that are demand supported?

The control period for parts that are demand supported is typically 180 days. This is based on inventory management practices that help ensure that the supply of parts aligns effectively with the actual demand for maintenance activities. A 180-day control period allows maintenance departments to monitor usage, assess demand trends, and make data-driven decisions regarding inventory levels.

By establishing a control period of this length, aviation maintenance teams can effectively manage their stock, reduce the risk of overstocking or stockouts, and ensure that the necessary parts are available when needed without tying up excessive amounts of capital in inventory. Such a time frame also helps in reinforcing the importance of using historical usage data to anticipate future needs, ensuring efficient operations within an organization.

Shorter periods, such as 30 or 90 days, might not provide enough data to accurately assess demand patterns, while a longer period like 365 days could lead to inefficiencies and an increased risk of obsolescence for certain parts that may not be utilized frequently. Therefore, the 180-day control period strikes a balance between responsiveness to demand and efficient inventory management.