World Aero at AP&M 2019

Back from a successful and enjoyable trip to Frankfurt for AP&M 2019, Phil Randell reflects:

“What a great trip. Decided to fly from London City this time which was a novelty for me as it had been 13 years since I was last there, working on a World Aero line maintenance contract with BA CityFlyer. LCY is still one of my favourite airports; more like an aircraft carrier – a bustling apron full of noise, jet blast and passengers in suits trying to get home at the end of the day! An exhilarating take-off from the short runway courtesy of a BA CityFlyer Embraer E190 and after some stunning views of London’s Docklands, it was a short, comfortable hop to Frankfurt.

Day one of the show was quite busy, but the general opinion was that it was not as busy as previous AP&M shows in London. A great welcome to be immediately greeted by a happy customer and to hear their praise for World Aero’s customer support staff. Plenty of familiar faces. My meetings went to plan and it was good as always to catch up with some old friends and colleagues. The highlight was unexpectedly meeting with a new airline customer whom World Aero had recently started A330 MRO work with, a nice surprise. The poor guy looked exhausted after a long “meet the buyers” session! After a some socialising, the day came to an end with an enjoyable evening in an abnormally hot Frankfurt.

Day two was quiet, definitely more sore heads than airline personnel! But as ever, after the excitement of the first day of the show, some people had more time to talk and give an honest opinion of the year. Talk of Brexit still aplenty, however its good to hear that most, like World Aero, have contingency plans in place. Whatever your views, there seems to be a general feeling of “lets get it done” regarding the subject. It was a shame to have heard that so many companies have had to put a huge amount of time and a fair pile of money into their contingency plans, I can’t help but think this could have been used to better effect elsewhere.

Well done to the AP&M organisers Aviation Week for putting on a great event in Frankfurt and for remaining steady while many other shows try and muscle in. “Do we really need more shows?”

See you at the next MRO Event!