History

API was founded in 1988 as an aircraft parts distribution business unit of AMR Services. AMR established API with one central facility in Memphis, Tenn., in order to build an efficient distribution infrastructure that could leverage a multitude of shipping options there, including overnight services provided by FedEx Express. In 1992, API merged with AMR Combs’ distribution businesses, adding new product lines to its aircraft parts portfolio. In 1997, as part of an effort to divest non-airline assets and business units, AMR sold API; API is currently owned by First Aviation Services, Inc. of Westport, Conn.

API’s revenues have grown at an average annual rate of 15% to over $120 million per year. API’s growth is a result of: (a) investments in information technology, which have allowed API to achieve industry-leading levels of product availability and customer service; (b) international expansion, including partnerships and branch locations in Europe, Canada and Asia; and (c) leveraging API’s state-of-the-art distribution infrastructure to provide the aviation industry with unique, customized supply chain services and solutions. API sees supply chain solutions as the segment of the business in greatest demand as aircraft operators, OEMs and MRO providers seek to minimize the life-cycle costs of aircraft and engine ownership by reducing the overhead and “back office” costs of aircraft operations. API’s distribution and supply chain solutions allow the aviation industry to reduce back-office costs by partnering with a company that can leverage an existing supply chain infrastructure and focus all efforts on maximum supply chain efficiency and customer service.