In most freight forwarding, timelines are planned days or weeks in advance. AOG logistics is different. When an aircraft is grounded because of a missing or faulty part, every hour of delay has a direct operational cost — which is why AOG shipments are handled as a category of their own.
What Does AOG Mean?
AOG stands for “Aircraft on Ground” — a status indicating that an aircraft cannot fly until a specific part or component is repaired or replaced. AOG logistics refers to the emergency shipping process used to get that part to the aircraft’s location as quickly as possible.
Why Every Hour Counts
A grounded aircraft isn’t just idle — it represents disrupted schedules, delayed passengers or cargo, and significant operational cost for every hour it remains out of service. This is why AOG shipments are prioritized above standard air freight bookings, often moving on the next available flight regardless of normal routing or consolidation plans.
What Makes AOG Logistics Different From Standard Air Freight
- Round-the-clock coordination — AOG requests don’t wait for standard business hours.
- Priority routing — parts are booked onto the fastest available flight, not the most economical one.
- Door-to-door urgency — coordination covers pickup, customs clearance, and final delivery to the aircraft, not just the flight leg.
- Constant communication — status updates throughout the shipment, since timing decisions may need to be made in real time.
Preparing for AOG Situations Before They Happen
Because AOG situations are, by definition, unplanned, the best preparation is having a freight forwarding partner already familiar with your operation before an emergency happens. Knowing who to call, having documentation processes ready, and understanding response capabilities in advance all reduce the time lost when an AOG situation occurs.
PEX Logistics supports AOG shipments as part of its air freight capabilities, helping aviation businesses respond quickly when time is critical. Learn about our AOG service or contact our team for urgent shipment support.