A DER is a person designated by the FAA to approve major repairs and major alterations on behalf of the agency. [Credit: Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs) are FAA-appointed individuals authorized to approve major repairs and alterations in aviation, providing legal and certified alternatives to OEM solutions.
DER repairs are critical for addressing common aerospace industry challenges, such as high costs, long lead times for new parts, and supply chain disruptions, especially given the growing demand for used serviceable materials (USM).
These engineered repairs enable the reuse of components, leading to improved part availability, reduced maintenance expenses, and enhanced environmental sustainability for airlines and MRO entities.
I was at the Wall Street Deli in Greensboro, North Carolina, about to tuck into a lovely Souvlaki platter when my phone buzzed on the counter before me. Yes, I answered it. Business always comes first when you are in aviation. It was my customer, Josh Brien, then procurement manager at Genesis Aviation, and he was hyperventilating.
“Rick,” he said, “We have a problem.”
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Richard is a US Navy Veteran, A&P Mechanic, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University alumni. His experience ranges from general and corporate aviation to helicopters, business jets, and commercial airliners. Former owner of a 145 repair station, he currently has an aerospace product management role and is a member of the T-C-Alliance. Follow him on X (Twitter) at @RScarCo.
