As Brett, the president and owner, explained on the latest episode of the Return to Service podcast, PMX Aviation's bread and butter is corporate AOG maintenance. However, they also handle Department of Defense (DOD) projects, commercial work, and general aviation piston jobs. The company’s growth and success are deeply intertwined with Hawaii's geographical and infrastructural constraints, making their story all the more compelling.
Imagine being the only maintenance vendor in the most remote archipelago in the world. With California 1,900 miles to the east and Majuro in the Marshall Islands as the nearest civilization to the southwest, the logistical hurdles are immense. Brett painted a vivid picture of the challenges: “Even in a G4 or G5, you’re not making a stiff-legged ferry to the West Coast.”
The islands’ infrastructure adds another layer of complexity. Many airports haven’t seen significant updates since World War II, leaving them with inadequate power grids and facilities. For instance, Lanai’s airport has no hangar and a 50-amp subpanel, rendering it useless for running essential equipment. The absence of bridges, tunnels, and ferries further complicates inter-island transportation, making every maintenance job a logistical puzzle.
In response to these challenges, PMX Aviation has developed innovative solutions to ensure they can deliver top-notch service across the islands. One of their key strategies is pre-palletizing heavy equipment like hydraulic mules and jacks. This foresight allows them to move essential tools efficiently, ensuring a 24-hour turnaround time for getting the right equipment anywhere in the state.
Brett’s team also had to adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic. With inter-island travel restrictions in place, they pivoted to using their own aircraft to reach customers. “COVID dictated the need for our own planes,” Brett explained. This shift not only allowed them to continue operations but also became a preferred method for customers, especially when transporting hazardous materials that airlines often refuse.
Behind the technical jargon and logistical strategies are the people who make PMX Aviation tick. Brett’s journey from a troubled youth to a business owner is both inspiring and relatable. “I just wanted a halfway decent job,” he shared, reflecting on his unexpected rise to ownership. His story is a testament to how life’s twists and turns can lead to unexpected opportunities.
The team at PMX Aviation is small but mighty, consisting of seven technicians and two administrative staff. Recruitment and retention are significant challenges due to Hawaii’s unique lifestyle and high cost of living. Brett shared candidly about the difficulties of finding and keeping talent: “Most people don’t stay here longer than two years, regardless of industry.”
The pandemic forced PMX Aviation to make quick and radical decisions. With commercial flights grounded and inter-island travel restricted, the team turned to flying themselves to meet customer needs. This move was not without its hurdles. Brett recounted, “I got detained, put in handcuffs. That was fun.” Yet, this pivot proved crucial for the company's survival and growth.
Buying and maintaining aircraft is no small feat. Brett humorously warned, “Aircraft are terrible investments. Don’t do it.” Despite the challenges, the decision to own planes has paid off. It allowed PMX Aviation to provide uninterrupted service during the pandemic and has become a staple in their operations.
PMX Aviation’s journey offers valuable lessons for anyone facing logistical and operational challenges. Their story underscores the importance of adaptability, innovation, and resilience. Brett’s focus on taking care of his team and customers highlights a leadership style grounded in empathy and practicality.
As Hawaii’s leading AOG maintenance provider, PMX Aviation continues to navigate the complexities of operating in a remote archipelago. Their story is a reminder that even in the face of significant obstacles, a combination of creativity, dedication, and teamwork can lead to success.
In reflecting on this episode of the Return to Service podcast, it’s clear that PMX Aviation’s journey is far from over. As Brett aptly put it, “I guess I'm the boss now.” His story and the company’s trajectory invite us to think about how we can innovate and adapt in our own lives and businesses.
For a deeper dive into Brett’s experiences and the unique challenges of PMX Aviation, be sure to listen to the full episode of the Return to Service podcast here.