Enhancing Security and Traceability in Aerospace Supply Chains through Block Chain Technology
Princess Chimmy Joeaneke
*
Cyber Security and Aerospace Expert, University of the Cumberlands, 104 Maple Drive, Williamsburg, KY 40769, United States of America.
Titilayo Modupe Kolade
Foreign Services and Diplomacy Expert, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tafawa Balewa House, Central Business District, Abuja, Nigeria.
Onyinye Obioha Val
Computer and Electrical Engineering Department, University of District of Columbia, 4200 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington DC 20008, USA.
Anthony Obulor Olisa
Cumberland University, 1 Cumberland Dr, Lebanon, TN 37087, United States.
Sunday Abayomi Joseph
Data Privacy, Blockchain Strategy & Management, Ashland University, 401 College Avenue, Ashland, OH 44805, United States of America.
Oluwaseun Oladeji Olaniyi
University of the Cumberlands, 104 Maple Drive, Williamsburg, KY 40769, United States of America.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study explores the impact of blockchain technology on aerospace supply chains, focusing on mitigating risks such as supply chain disruptions, counterfeit parts, and regulatory compliance challenges. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis using data sourced from publicly available databases, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and reports from blockchain technology providers. Descriptive analysis identified supply chain disruptions (M = 3.74, SD = 1.17) as the most significant risk, followed by counterfeit parts (M = 3.34, SD = 1.20). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) demonstrated that part authentication and provenance tracking had the strongest impact on improving traceability (β = 0.40, p < 0.001) and transparency (β = 0.38, p < 0.001). A Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) revealed a positive return on investment, with cost-benefit ratios up to 2.31. Blockchain adoption was also found to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 25%, while improving operational efficiency through shorter procurement lead times and lower administrative costs. However, regulatory misalignment and interoperability challenges remain barriers to full adoption. The study concludes that blockchain is a transformative tool for enhancing traceability, security, and sustainability in aerospace supply chains.
Keywords: Blockchain, aerospace supply chain, part authentication, counterfeit parts, regulatory compliance