A look at an HAI member up close and personal.
An aerospace logistics corporation located in Fargo, North Dakota, Dakota Air Parts was founded in 1994 to provide logistical parts support for commercial and military aircraft.
From AOG to MRO
The company offers sales, including domestic and international shipping, of more than 147,000 helicopter and airplane components and engine parts. An expansive network of operators and distributors, in addition to a vast inventory, helps Dakota ensure same-day shipping for AOG (aircraft on ground) needs. Additionally, the company provides turnkey maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, pairing a network of partner MRO facilities with its parts-sourcing capabilities and parts-exchange programs.
Global Reach
Dakota has enjoyed significant growth through the years, with an ever-increasing staff and inventory. The company is now one of the largest helicopter-parts suppliers in the world, maintaining more than 50,000 square feet of space containing 90,000-plus rows of inventory, all of which is managed using state-of-the-art inventory-control systems. Dakota has also been recognized by the US Department of Commerce for excellence in exporting.
Last summer, Dakota announced it had initiated the receiving process from a long-awaited, massive, multicontinent uplift consisting primarily of UH-1 Iroquois and AH-1 Cobra helicopter parts, components, and related equipment. In addition to the primary concentration of UH-1 and AH-1 parts, the company is also receiving aircraft and turbine-engine parts for the following platforms: PT6, OH-6, OH-58, CH-47, 204, 205, 212, CH-47, J85, A37, T53, and T55. Most of the material is new and serviceable.
After nearly 55 years of continued UH-1/AH-1 active global service, these last great inventories from Vietnam and the Middle East will further Dakota’s continued support of these aircraft platforms around the world for years to come.
“This massive undertaking has culminated from tireless work, focus, and the continued dedication and support of many staff members and in-country agents, not to mention many great friends from around the globe over the last 15 years,” says Kurtis C. “K.C.” McConn, Dakota’s CEO and director.
And Dakota is continually in the market for more: The company regularly buys, consigns, and trades aircraft parts to help keep the world’s helicopter industry flying.
