Aero NextGen today confirmed that its Solution Finder Hub — the aviation industry’s first dedicated platform for matching operators to vetted software and consulting providers — is free for every aviation company, with no fee to search, shortlist, or connect. The milestone comes as more than 175 aviation companies have already used the platform to find the right software, and as it spans 60+ solution categories and a vetted network of 60+ solution providers, and growing.

The decision removes the single largest barrier to digital transformation in aviation: the cost and risk of choosing the wrong system. Aero NextGen is making the entire matching layer free for buyers so that MROs, airlines, OEMs, lessors, parts traders, distributors, FBOs, CAMOs, charter and cargo operators, and airports can move faster on the technology decisions that determine turnaround time, compliance, and cash flow.

Aviation is growing faster than it is modernizing

The industry is expanding on every axis. Global air traffic is set to roughly double over the next two decades, growing about 4.7% a year through 2043, and the world fleet is projected to nearly double — from about 24,700 aircraft at the end of 2024 to more than 49,000 by 2044 — according to IATA and Airbus forecasts. Industry revenues have already passed $1 trillion. At the same time, North America alone faces a shortfall of roughly 40,000 aviation mechanics by 2028. More aircraft, more flights, and fewer people to maintain them point to the same answer: better software, adopted faster.

Yet the industry’s adoption record lags its growth. Across aviation, digital transformation is still early — Capgemini reports that only 6% of MROs have integrated digital tools at scale, citing fragmented data, legacy infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled personnel. Critical information stays trapped in disconnected systems across maintenance, flight operations, supply chain, and finance. And when companies do try to modernize, the selection process itself is where value is lost — ERP implementation failures average 27% in cost overruns, and the wrong system can mean millions lost to prolonged rollouts, extended training, weak support, and incompatibility with existing systems.

The forward move is not “buy software.” It is choose correctly the first time. That is the problem Aero NextGen was built to solve.

What the Solution Finder Hub is

The Solution Finder Hub is a free aviation software and consulting marketplace that maps an operator’s real requirements to the providers built for them. Instead of a generic directory, it works as a matching engine across the capabilities aviation teams actually buy — work order management, task card management, planning and scheduling, inventory and bill of materials, RFQ/RFP management, billing and invoicing, compliance and warranty management, multi-currency accounting, and dozens more.

The Hub spans every software and consulting category in aviation. It currently covers 60+ solution categories and a vetted network of 60+ solution providers, both growing as new vendors are onboarded. It ranges from implementation partners to MRO software, aviation ERP software, business analytics, drone inspection, crew management, and flight operations

— across every sector, from commercial to military and defense, helicopters and drones to UAM and business aviation. Each provider is vetted, and each is presented against the same capability framework so buyers compare like for like — not marketing claim against marketing claim.

How an operator uses it — in three minutes

The entry point is the Solution Finder Quiz. An operator answers a short set of questions about their type of operation, size, region, and the workflows that matter most. The platform then auto-filters more than 60 aviation solutions down to a shortlist matched to those inputs. The process is deliberately simple:

1. Answer the quiz — operation type, size, region, and priority workflows.
2. Receive a matched shortlist — only the providers that fit your requirements, drawn from 60+ vetted solutions.
3. Compare and connect — review providers side by side on a shared capability framework, then connect directly.

There is no cost to the buyer at any step, and no obligation. The shortlist is built around the operator’s needs, not around who paid for placement.

How today’s selection process actually works — and why it fails

For most aviation companies, selecting software still means starting from zero. A team searches generic ERP directories that were never built for aviation, sits through a series of vendor-led demos, and tries to translate sales decks into a real capability comparison. Requirements get scoped against whatever the last salesperson emphasized. Aviation-specific needs — airworthiness compliance, task cards, PBH and consignment, loan and borrow, multi-currency parts trading — are often discovered late, after a shortlist has already formed around the wrong criteria.

The result is predictable: long evaluation cycles, decisions made on incomplete information, and a meaningful share of projects that overrun or stall. Generic software is not built for aviation’s regulatory and operational reality, and the cost of finding that out after signing is measured in months and millions.

Larger operators often pay consulting firms to run a formal RFP and down-selection — a process that can take several months and cost six or seven figures to consolidate a stack of spreadsheets into a single decision, and one the industry widely acknowledges carries its own bias. Smaller aviation companies rarely have the budget for that. The Solution Finder Hub puts the same structured, requirement-matched evaluation in reach of every operator, at no cost.

How Aero NextGen disrupts it

Aero NextGen replaces the generic, vendor-led process with a neutral, aviation-specific matching layer:

• Aviation-only, by design. Every provider is evaluated against the workflows aviation teams run — not repackaged from a horizontal software list.
• Vetted supply. The 60+ providers on the platform are screened before they reach a buyer’s shortlist, and the network is growing.
• Like-for-like comparison. A shared capability framework lets operators compare providers on the same terms instead of competing sales narratives.
• Free for buyers. The matching layer carries no cost to the aviation company, removing the financial risk from the first and most important step.
• Built on real demand. 175+ aviation companies have already used the platform to connect with the right software, giving Aero NextGen a working view of what the market needs and which solutions deliver.

The shift is straightforward. The industry no longer has to choose software in the dark. It can start every evaluation from a vetted, requirement-matched shortlist — and reserve its time for the decision, not the search.

The Aero NextGen take

Aviation runs on precision everywhere except in how it buys its own technology. Aero NextGen’s position is that the matching layer between an operator and its software should be neutral, aviation-specific, and free — because the cost of a wrong system is already high enough without charging companies to look.

“The industry has spent years treating software selection as a cost of doing business. We treat it as the decision that determines whether digital transformation succeeds. We made the Solution Finder Hub free for every aviation company because the right match should never be gated behind a fee — 175 companies in, the data is clear that neutral matching gets operators to the right solution faster than any sales cycle.”

— Monica Badra, Founder & CEO, Aero NextGen

Availability

The Solution Finder Hub and the Solution Finder Quiz are live now and free for all aviation companies at aero-nextgen.com. Solution providers seeking to be listed and vetted can apply at aero-nextgen.com/for-vendors.

Most aviation marketplaces solve only one part of the procurement challenge: helping buyers locate aircraft parts and connect with suppliers worldwide. Established platforms like PartsBase and Inventory Locator Service (ILS) are widely recognized across the aviation industry for their extensive inventory databases and long-standing presence in the market. 

However, aircraft procurement does not end once a part is found. Buyers still need to manage shipping, logistics coordination, and documentation through separate processes, which can increase manual workload and slow down operations. For time-sensitive aircraft parts, especially in AOG situations, the logistics stage can determine how fast aircraft return to service.

One Platform for Parts and Shipping

Locatory.com addresses this gap between marketplace search and post-purchase logistics by offering a more integrated approach. In addition to search capabilities for aircraft parts, components, chemicals, consumables, equipment, and other aviation-related products, Locatory.com provides shipping services within the same platform. Through the integrated Shipping Module, buyers can create a new shipping quote or order by entering the required shipment details, including address data, package dimensions, quantity, declared value, manufacturing country, package description, and general shipment description.

Once this information is submitted, buyers can compare express shipping options from major carriers, such as DHL and FedEx, with real-time pricing and delivery timelines directly within the platform. After selecting the preferred option, they can proceed to payment using either deposit or card payment and then download the shipping label. In addition, logistics support team is always on standby to assist clients whenever needed, helping make the process even smoother.

This integrated approach significantly reduces the number of manual steps required to complete a procurement order. What previously required switching between a marketplace, a logistics provider, and carrier portals becomes a single connected process. As Danelee du Plessis from Namibia Instruments & Avionics Sales & Repairs illustrated:

“We have been using Locatory.com shipping services for our aviation parts logistics, and the experience has been excellent. The platform has helped streamline our shipping process by providing reliable courier options, competitive rates, and efficient tracking capabilities. The service has reduced the time spent arranging shipments and has helped us manage logistics costs more effectively. The responsiveness of the team and the ease of coordinating international shipments have contributed to smoother operations and improved turnaround times for our customers.”

The value is visible from the first inquiry stage, where fast response, carrier choice, and clear communication help customers select the right shipping solution quickly. Francisco Dorado, Administration Manager at Orbiparts, shared:

“Working with Locatory’s shipping service has been a seamless experience for our team at Orbiparts. From the very first inquiry, Grantas was quick to respond with competitive pricing options across multiple carriers, making it easy for us to choose the best solution for our needs. The process was straightforward, communication was clear throughout, and the shipment was delivered on time without any issues. It’s the kind of reliable, professional support that makes logistics one less thing to worry about. We look forward to continuing to work with Locatory.com”

Pricing transparency is another important advantage. Through its integrated shipping service, Locatory.com guarantees an average shipping cost reduction of 40%, with savings of up to 80% achieved in selected high-value shipping scenarios compared to standard rates.

These cost reductions are widely visible in customer operations. Svetlana Fodor, Logistics Manager at Fleet Air also highlighted:

“The team is highly responsive, professional, and always willing to help. One of the biggest advantages for us has been the significant reduction in shipping costs. Through Locatory.com courier service system, we have managed to reduce our transportation expenses by more than 50%. We can confidently recommend Locatory.com shipping services to any company.” 

Built for Aviation Logistics

Locatory.com shipping services are designed specifically for aviation procurement workflows, where speed, reliability, documentation, and handling requirements are critical.

With aviation-focused expertise, global partner network, and established presence across key aviation hubs, company supports airlines, MROs, brokers, suppliers, and procurement teams that need reliable movement of aircraft parts, engines, or chemicals worldwide.

Freight transport services at Locatory.com include:

• Sea Freight Services – for large-volume aviation shipments and long-lead-time supply chain planning, offering cost-efficient movement of bulk cargo.
• Road Transport Services – for regional and international routes, including first-mile and last-mile logistics.
• Air Freight Services – for high-value and time-critical aviation shipments.

Alongside, Locatory.com shipping service offers specialized capabilities for complex aviation logistics:

• Time-critical shipment support - including AOG, NFO, and OBC solutions, where standard delivery timelines are not sufficient.
• Cross-border coordination - with support for customs clearance documentation across multiple jurisdictions, helping reduce delays and ensure compliance.
• Dangerous Goods (DG) handling- for shipments requiring special packaging and documentation in line with international safety standards.
• Additional insurance – for high-value shipments, providing added protection throughout the logistics process.

Beyond the capabilities, customers consistently point to the value of a dedicated team that takes ownership when shipments become complex. As Wagdi Abutalib, Founder of Exponair, shared: 

“We have had a very successful experience using Locatory.com shipping services. Their team has consistently provided reliable and efficient logistics support, helping us streamline our shipping operations and reduce turnaround times. The service has been professional, responsive, and cost effective.

We truly appreciate the dedication and customer focused approach of the Locatory.com Shipping team. They are always available to support us, especially when shipments are challenging, urgent, or critical. Their willingness to go the extra mile and respond quickly to demanding situations has made them a trusted logistics partner for our business.

Hats off to the entire Locatory.com Shipping services section for their outstanding commitment and exceptional service”

For customers managing recurring aviation shipments, the benefit is also clear in day-to-day operations. Olga Kromm, Order Administration & Logistics Assistant at Aviationscouts Logistics, noted:

„Aviationscouts Logistics Team has been using Locatory.com shipping services for some time now, and their service has been a valuable support to our business. The platform works smoothly, helps us reduce shipping costs, and shortens transit time. We highly recommend their services to companies looking for a dependable and cost-effective logistics solution. “

Case Study: When Standard Freight is Not Enough

Recently, Locatory.com shipping service team managed a case when a private jet was grounded in Abuja, Nigeria, due to a failed component approximately the size of a coffee mug. The aircraft was ready. The crew was available. The issue was not weather, airport restrictions, or permits. One critical part was missing, and until it arrived, the aircraft could not return to service.

The replacement component was located in Texas. Every hour on the ground increased the cost of the disruption, quickly making the value of the part itself secondary to the urgency of getting it delivered.

For this shipment, standard options were not suitable. Conventional air freight would take too long. A dedicated charter would not be commercially practical for a small component. The situation required a faster, more flexible solution.

Locatory.com shipping team assessed the urgency, destination, routing options, and available transport methods. Within 30 minutes, a solution was arranged: an On Board Courier who could personally carry the component on passenger flights and hand-deliver it to the destination.

The route required four flight segments:

Kansas City to Atlanta -> Atlanta to Paris -> Paris to Lagos -> Lagos to Abuja for final delivery

It was not the simplest route on paper, but in AOG logistics, the best solution is not always the most direct one. It is the route that gets the component to the aircraft in the shortest achievable time while keeping the shipment controlled and traceable throughout the journey.

This case demonstrates the value of proactive aviation logistics support. Locatory.com strength lies in combining aviation procurement knowledge, global logistics partnerships, and dedicated customer support. 

A More Connected Procurement Experience

Aviation procurement has evolved significantly in the past decade, from phone calls and fax-based RFQs to digital marketplaces with global inventory visibility. The next logical step is closing the distance between sourcing and logistics, treating them as a single process.

The goal is not simply to add a logistics feature to the marketplace. It is to reflect the way aviation procurement actually works – as a single operational process where sourcing and logistics are inseparable, and where every extra step between them carries a cost.

For customers, the practical value is clear. Faster purchasing decisions. Reduced administrative burden. Complete visibility of multiple carrier offers in one place. Lower transportation costs through negotiated carrier rates. And better operational continuity.

Pierre Chamoun, Managing Director at ABC Aero, noted:

“We have been using Locatory.com’s shipping services for nearly a year and are very pleased with the experience. The platform is easy to use, the rates are competitive, and the customer service is consistently responsive and professional. Their flexibility and efficiency have helped simplify our logistics process and save valuable time”

Aircraft parts procurement no longer needs to stop at search. PartsBase and ILS remain valuable and well-established marketplaces for locating aviation inventory, but today’s procurement teams often need more than visibility alone. Once a part is found, the next challenge is getting it delivered quickly, reliably, and cost-effectively.

This is where Locatory.com goes further. By bringing aircraft parts search and integrated logistics support into one connected platform, Locatory.com helps aviation companies reduce manual coordination, save valuable time, and manage shipments with greater confidence. In a sector where every delay can affect aircraft availability, Locatory.com offers a more complete way to source, ship, and keep operations moving. Locatory