General Airframe Support (GenAir)

General Airframe Support (GenAir) has built a reputation as a trusted provider of comprehensive fleet management solutions, expertly guiding clients through the process with a robust offering that includes aircraft retirement and reclamation, global spare parts supply, storage, and return-to-service programs.

In aviation, downtime is costly, and keeping aging fleets operational is a race against time. GenAir has emerged as a key player by excelling in recovering parts from retired aircraft—components that often escape the attention of other providers. Through collaboration with a vast network of vendors across major airports, GenAir ensures rapid part retrieval and turnaround, enabling clients to minimize delays and maintain operational continuity.

GenAir maintains an extensive inventory that includes over 10,000 serviceable and overhauled components and 400,000 parts in ‘as-removed condition.’ Its expansive 150,000-square foot facilities are a valuable resource for airlines and maintenance providers. At the same time, access to GenAir-owned aircraft at multiple sites strengthens its position as a one-stop solution for spare parts needs.

Location is critical in aviation logistics, where timing can make or break an operation. GenAir’s facilities in Roswell, New Mexico, and Pinal Airpark in Marana, Arizona, are strategically located to offer immediate support. The geographical advantage allows for quick access to OEM storage, comprehensive aircraft maintenance, and reclamation services, ensuring that clients receive the necessary parts as quickly as possible.

GenAir recently secured the FAA Part 145 repair station certification and service portfolio to include a limited accessory rating, OEM parking, storage programs, and return-to-service solutions. These customer-focused offerings have solidified its status as a leading aircraft parts distributor, ensuring supply chain resilience and eliminating operational bottlenecks for its clients.

Redefining Aircraft Lifecycle Management

GenAir is redefining aircraft fleet management with a comprehensive suite of services that covers everything from sourcing critical parts to delivering end-of-life maintenance solutions. Every step in the end-of-life process is executed with precision, whether dismantling a complete airframe or liquidating an inventory of parts for consignment.

GenAir’s attention to detail distinguishes it from competitors, who typically recover around 1,000 parts per aircraft. In contrast, it extracts up to 60,000 parts from each plane. Though the process is labor-intensive, it ensures that every valuable part is claimed.

A breakthrough in the industry is GenAir’s zero-cost reclamation program, which is transforming the aircraft parts recovery industry.

“We pull up to 500 parts from an aircraft completely free of charge, including everything from landing gear to auxiliary power units,” says Isaac Sheets, president and CEO. “We supply all packing materials, tags, caps and plugs necessary for safe removal. In exchange, GenAir retains the right to sell additional parts beyond the 500-part limit, with further dismantling charged accordingly.”

The program is already gaining traction, with five aircraft teardowns completed soon after its launch.

Taking its reclamation capabilities further, GenAir recently invested in an advanced rope-cutting saw to enhance efficiency. The $120,000, 100-foot rope saw, typically used for granite and stone cutting, enables more precise cuts around the aircraft than traditional hand tools. It represents a significant upgrade in the reclamation process, making GenAir’s operations faster and more efficient.

For clients seeking complete disposal of their grounded aircraft, crushing services include a dedicated crush pad and a contractor who operates an excavator on-site. Additionally, GenAir has reinforced its commitment to sustainability by establishing a recycling center at its Roswell facility. Operational for two years, the center has played a crucial role in promoting environmentally responsible aircraft disposal.

GenAir’s extensive services extend beyond teardowns. The company meticulously inventories, accounts for, and tags every part while offering marketing platforms to help clients maximize asset resale value. Operations are conducted at the Roswell and Marana facilities, where rigorous quality control protocols ensure top standards are applied to every procedure.

Quality is non-negotiable at GenAir, where internal programs are strengthened by regular audits from industry bodies like the Aviation Suppliers Association (ASA) and the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association (AFRA).

The facilities welcome inspections from airlines, OEMs, MROs and ISO-accredited certification bodies, ensuring all materials are traceable to their original manufacturers and compliant with the standards required for 121/129 operators. Every serviceable component is accompanied by the appropriate airworthiness documentation, such as FAA 8130-3 or JAA/EASA Form One certificate.

An Extensive Inventory for Uninterrupted Operations

Since March 2013, GenAir has emerged as a powerhouse in aircraft parts and fleet management, acquiring 73 aircraft and generating an impressive inventory of over one million “as removed” spare parts. Over 10,000 of these are serviceable or overhauled, ready for immediate shipment. With over a dozen aircraft being dismantled at any given time, GenAir’s unmatched resourcefulness in sourcing spare parts ensures a steady supply to meet the demands of the aviation industry.

The inventory spans a wide range, including the Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 (all series from 200 through Next Generation), the 757, MD-80, DC-10, and Airbus A319. This focus on major aircraft models allows GenAir to cater to its clients’ most pressing needs.

“Our clients are typically heavy maintenance facilities that turn to us when they struggle to find hard-to-source parts,” explains Sheets. “Our niche lies in finding those hard-to-find components, which truly sets us apart.”

This unique focus has cemented GenAir’s reputation as a go-to problem solver in the global aircraft spare parts market.

In addition to supplying parts, GenAir offers short—and long-term storage and parking solutions that adhere to manufacturers’ technical guidelines. These services ensure optimal preservation of aircraft and parts and are available at competitive rates. The company’s return-to-service (RTS) options, including engine runs as part of customer agreements, further extend its support for clients seeking comprehensive fleet management solutions.

Strategically located in climates ideal for aircraft storage, GenAir’s facilities are optimized for preservation and operations. The Roswell facility features a 12,500-square-foot hangar and 5,029 acres of parking space, supporting everything from teardown to OEM storage and RTS services. The Marana facility spans 15 acres and facilitates dismantling and storage. These sites enable efficient operations and ensure that parts are stored in conditions that maximize their usability for future deployment.

At the heart of GenAir’s operations is its Roswell corporate hub-a 150,000-square-foot warehouse with an integrated 3,125-square-foot office. This facility manages the logistics of storing and distributing reclaimed aircraft parts worldwide. The recent acquisition of two 60-ton cranes will allow seamless transfers from airports to storage, providing clients with greater flexibility to manage their assets without the immediate pressure to decide on utilization.

“Our supply chain is a value-added advantage for clients,” Sheets explains. “With facilities at two airports, we can keep our assets intact on the ramp, including those not actively marketed. We maintain 15 GenAir-owned assets on the ramp at any given time, ensuring we can quickly source parts.” The company aims to expand its ramp presence to own 30 assets by year-end.

Depending on the complexity, GenAir’s ability to turn parts around in as little as 10 days gives clients a critical edge, helping them minimize downtime and maintain operational continuity. As it continues to expand its asset base and operational capabilities, GenAir will become not just a parts supplier but a vital partner in keeping the aviation industry soaring smoothly.

Strategic Partnerships and Seamless Coordination for Client Success

Its operational approach is designed to keep the aviation industry flying high. By managing repairs across a vast network of specialized shops—flight control, structure and accessory facilities—GenAir delivers top-tier service to its clients.

At any given time, it has over 100 parts undergoing repair. The high volume of work provides it with expedited lead times, bypassing common delays associated with this type of maintenance. Strong vendor relationships are maintained, which gives it a critical advantage, ensuring faster turnaround times and smoother operations.

A distinct aspect of GenAir’s client engagement process lies in its dual-team structure, which consists of dedicated sales and fulfillment personnel.

The sales team handles research, pricing and initial commitments with clients. Each team member undergoes an extensive four-week training program focused on the illustrated parts catalog (IPC). This rigorous training enables salespeople to anticipate and proactively address potential delays, creating a seamless customer experience.

On the fulfillment side, the team tracks each order from start to finish, coordinating with repair shops and suppliers to ensure everything runs smoothly. The members act as a reliable point of contact for clients, providing timely updates and resolving concerns to guarantee satisfaction throughout the process.

This division of roles between sales and fulfillment has visibly improved GenAir’s service delivery, resulting in a 20 percent improvement in efficiency. Clients appreciate the company’s responsiveness, reliability and attention to detail and consistently return for their aircraft part needs. This customer-centricity has translated into significant growth, as evident by the swift onboarding of a new airline partner.

Fostering an Employee-Centric Culture

GenAir’s success story is one of growth fueled by a strong team culture and a commitment to shared values, all of which trace back to the founder’s personal journey. The company began in 2013 as a small venture selling rotatable and consumable aircraft components but quickly became a sought-after provider of comprehensive fleet management solutions. A significant milestone in this evolution came in 2020 when Sheets was awarded the Key to the City of Roswell after financing the construction of the first new hangar in the area since 1983.

As GenAir expanded rapidly, it faced the challenges of managing a larger team with diverse skills and personalities. Sheets recognized the need for a more strategic approach to leadership and turned to renowned business coach Tony Robbins for guidance. Under Robbins’ mentorship, Sheets shifted his focus to cultivating a solid company culture. This turning point led to a renewed commitment to creating a supportive and respectful work environment where employees feel valued and empowered.

“Culture and quality of life are what we strive for at GenAir,” Sheets says. “I see the company as a vehicle to improve lives, and it’s a pretty darn good one. If I serve my employees well and create a positive work environment, great work will naturally follow and trickle down to our clients.”

This belief drives GenAir’s approach to fostering team spirit and collaboration, with Sheets regularly organizing team-building experiences to strengthen bonds. A recent example was a week-long retreat in the Philippines, where employees participated in Tony Robbins’ “Unleash the Power Within” program alongside adventurous activities like swimming with whale sharks, canyoneering and ziplining.

Work-life balance is another cornerstone of Sheets’ leadership philosophy. He encourages his team to prioritize their personal lives, believing that a balanced workforce is more energized and effective. With 30 employees in the U.S. and 15 in the Philippines, GenAir is set to expand its sales team from 17 to 30 members by next year to meet the rising demands of its global clientele.

Looking forward, Sheets has ambitious plans for 2025. GenAir aims to become a one-stop shop for aviation support services by establishing an in-house repair division. This aligns with its commitment to providing clients with a seamless experience. The company also plans to expand its accessory services to offer broader maintenance and repair capabilities, enhancing its ability to serve the aviation industry.

GenAir recently acquired the FAA 145 repair station certificate, which expanded its capabilities to include a limited accessory rating, OEM parking, storage programs and return-to-service solutions. With a dedicated team and a clear vision for the future, the company is set to raise the bar in aviation services. Sheets’ leadership and focus on culture ensure that no challenge is too big when delivering exceptional fleet management solutions and support to clients worldwide.