What is ERP?

Think of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) as a shared blueprint when you are trying to build a structure. The concrete team can pour foundations, and the electricians can install wiring — but without a common plan, wiring could end up trapped behind solid walls where it can’t be accessed. As the structure grows, these mismatches become more frequent and harder to correct.

An ERP system works much the same way. As the name suggests, it is a platform that streamlines workflows, databases, and processes across multiple core business functions. In aviation, this can include areas such as engineering, reliability, technical records, maintenance planning, fleet monitoring, maintenance management, inventory, logistics to even finance, human resources, and training management.

ERP Benefits

ERP offers a wide range of benefits for companies that implement it properly:

1. Efficiency & Reduced Cross Department Miscommunication

   Instead of each department relying on its own isolated systems and datasets, ERP integrates all information into one unified platform. 

   
   

2. Streamline Operations

   Many ERP systems cover multiple functions in one place, helping simplify processes with built-in automation and workflows.

3. Maintaining Strict Standards to Ensure Airworthines

   Data entry is standardized, and workflows are automated to ensure that critical compliance information is consistently recorded and accurately shared across the organization.

4. Easier Trend Monitoring and Auditing

   Whether it's identifying incorrect data entries or spotting concerning operational patterns, an ERP allows for faster and clearer analysis. Management teams also benefit, as they can access consolidated information in one location rather than sifting through multiple disconnected reports.

Example of ERP Use Cases in Aviation Maintenance

ERP can be used across different parts of aircraft operations and maintenance to make day-to-day management smoother:

• Asset information: A single place to manage aircraft utilization data, hard time component statuses, and certificates, so teams don’t have to chase information across different files.

• Maintenance planning: Helps input maintenance tasks, both routine and non-routine, and flag anything missing or overdue. Some systems also make it easier to group tasks together, plan needed tools and materials, and track task card closures for compliance.

• Technical records: Centralizes all technical documentation, with clear tagging on who updated what, making audits and record reviews much easier.

• Inventory and supply chain: Helps monitor parts for each aircraft, track stock levels, and trigger reminders when restocking is needed. It also makes it easier to control updates and approvals. If there’s a discrepancy, it’s much faster to check who changed what and why.

• Cost control: Tracks spending against budgets, highlights gaps early, and helps reduce unnecessary inventory to cut costs where possible.

• Human resources: Keeps track of available staff, their certifications, and their qualifications, helping plan assignments based on real capacity.

Questions to Ask When Choosing an ERP

Now we all know that there is a lot of ERPs in the market for aviation, and with the plethora of choices, we need to ask In terms of what companies need to look out for?

• First and foremost, budget - How much does It cost?

  ERP providers use different pricing models — some charge based on the number of aircraft, some by user count, aircraft type, or the specific features selected. Customizations usually come at an extra cost, so it’s important to factor that into account.

• Features – Does the ERP offer features that my company need?Understand what features the ERP system includes, what it doesn’t, and how it matches with your existing business flow. Some providers offer modular options, letting you choose (and pay for) only the features you need, which is especially useful for smaller operators or companies transitioning in stages.

• Customization – How can the ERP match my specific operational needs?Each ERP has limits when it comes to customization. For example our partner Alkym, offers the ability to customize dashboards, reporting formats, and how information is displayed, making it easier to adapt the system to your operational and reporting needs. However, core system flows generally may be less flexible, and major changes could require additional investment.

• Security – What standards do they use? What quality certifications do they have?

  Check what standards and certifications the ERP provider follows, how they handle data protection, and whether they meet aviation industry requirements. Sensitive operational data demands more than just basic IT security.

• Support – What kind of support is available during and after implementation?

  Choosing an ERP isn't just about the software itself — it’s also about the support behind it. Look at the onboarding, training, and technical support options available. Working with technical consultants like TBM Aviation can also help ensure the ERP is implemented smoothly and actually add value to your business.

Conclusion

ERP systems are not just about replacing spreadsheets; they offer structure, validation, and scalability that manual methods struggle to maintain. Choosing an ERP is not just about switching systems; it’s about finding the right fit for your operational needs, balancing features, flexibility, security, and support to manage growth more reliably.

Let’s Talk

If you are considering taking the next step, working with the right technical partner can help you transition smoothly and get the most out of your system. TBM Aviation is experienced in supporting companies with their ERP implementation, making sure you get the support you need to implement a system that actually makes your team’s life easier and brings real value to your operations. Reach out to info@tbmaviation.com to start a conversation about your implementation needs.