Wheels Up: Inside the Relentless World of AOG

When an aircraft is grounded unexpectedly, the clock starts ticking—and every second counts. That’s the reality we live in at Delta’s AOG (Aircraft on Ground) Response Team, where getting planes safely back in the air is more than a mission—it’s a mindset.

I joined Delta Air Lines in 1988 after serving in the U.S. Air Force, and I’ve worked across various logistics and recovery roles before finding my way to AOG in 1998. Today, as Manager of AOG Response, I lead a team within our Operations and Customer Center (OCC) that works around the clock to eliminate obstacles and deliver critical parts to grounded aircraft—wherever they are in the world. It’s high-pressure, fast-paced, and constantly evolving. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Fast Thinking, Faster Action

In a post-pandemic world riddled with supply chain disruptions, the ability to act quickly has never been more important. But even more crucial is the willingness to collaborate across the industry. No airline can afford to operate in a silo. The ability to loan and borrow parts, or even rob from one aircraft to serve another, is essential in AOG. It’s not ideal—but sometimes it’s the only way to keep operations moving.

“No airline can afford to operate in a silo. The ability to loan and borrow parts, or even rob from one aircraft to serve another, is essential in AOG”

At Delta, we’re fortunate to have predictive maintenance technologies that help us anticipate issues before they happen. But technology alone isn’t the answer. It’s how you apply it, and who’s interpreting the data, that makes all the difference. Real-world experience still trumps everything when the stakes are high and decisions need to be made fast.

People Power: The Heart of AOG

Tools and tech are powerful— but nothing replaces passion. The truth is, AOG is not a job for everyone. You have to love this profession to thrive in it. You need people who are calm under pressure, ten steps ahead, and deeply committed to safety and service. These are the people who don’t just keep aircraft flying—they keep the industry moving.

At Delta, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the best in the business. My role is to ensure they have what they need to succeed: clear direction, trusted relationships, and zero interference. I take that responsibility seriously because I know how important their work is—not just for the company, but for the millions of passengers who rely on us.

The Next Generation of AOG Leaders

For those stepping into this field—whether as new AOG managers or emerging airline operators—my advice is this: leave no stone unturned. Do the research, doublecheck your sources, and never underestimate the value of relationships. Building trust with other airlines, OEMs, and vendors will be one of your biggest assets.

A wise colleague once told me, “You must know a lot about most things. Know a little about everything. And if you don’t know something, at least know who to call.” That’s AOG in a nutshell. It’s a career where knowledge, connections, and instinct intersect. And when it all comes together, the result is more than just operational success— it’s aviation at its best.