ABSTRACT
This chapter considers a fairly complex case, such as the purchasing organization for an international project that might exist in connection with the development and manufacture of a new aircraft. It is concerned with the safe carriage of aviation project materials and equipment. Purchasing is part of a wider materials management function that can include vendor appraisal, contract negotiation, goods inwards inspection, and the safe handling and storage of goods received. It extends beyond the boundaries of the purchaser's premises to embrace supervisory expediting and inspection visits to suppliers, packing and transport arrangements, port and customs clearance for international movements, and involvement whenever special provisions have to be made for insurance, credit guarantees, and other commercial arrangements. Efficient purchasing and supply chain management are essential to avoid serious over-expenditure or delays through shortages and the acquisition of goods that are unfit for their intended purpose. Project management writers either give purchasing little prominence, or they ignore it altogether.
