AOG Technics Director Charged with Fraud Over Falsified Aircraft Parts

AOG Technics

UK SFO Investigation Triggers Global Safety Inspections and Legal Action

AOG Technics director charged with fraud by the UK’s Serious Fraud Office (SFO) in a case involving falsified documentation for aircraft parts. Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala, the director of the UK-based supplier, is accused of operating the company for fraudulent purposes between 2019 and 2023. The SFO alleges that AOG Technics misrepresented the origin, status, or condition of jet engine parts, raising significant safety concerns across the aviation industry.

The SFO launched its investigation in December 2023 after safety alerts were issued by EASA, the UK Civil Aviation Authority, and the U.S. FAA. The alerts covered CFM56 engines used in commercial aircraft and GE CF6 engines in cargo jets. As a result, global operators and maintenance providers were instructed to review procurement records and inspect affected components. Several aircraft were grounded worldwide due to the discovery of fraudulently certified engine parts linked to AOG Technics.

Joint UK–Portugal Probe Continues as Court Date Set for June 2025

The investigation is being conducted jointly with Portuguese authorities, focusing on the suspected supply of forged safety certifications and counterfeit parts. Authorities have not ruled out additional charges or arrests as the probe continues. Meanwhile, Zamora Yrala is scheduled to appear in court on 2 June 2025. The case highlights growing concerns about counterfeit materials in aerospace supply chains and may lead to stricter traceability and verification standards across the aviation industry.

As the AOG Technics director is charged with fraud, this case underscores the critical need for transparency and compliance in high-risk sectors like aerospace maintenance and overhaul (MRO). The long-term reputational and regulatory consequences may extend well beyond the courtroom.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The AOG Technics scandal has exposed dangerous weaknesses in aviation’s aftermarket supply chain. As legal proceedings unfold, global regulatory agencies may push for blockchain-enabled traceability, supplier audits, and tamper-proof certification systems to prevent recurrence.