MRO

MRO is an acronym with multiple meanings, most commonly referring to maintenance, repair, and operations or to maintenance, repair, and overhaul, depending on the industry. In general business terminology, MRO describes the materials, supplies, and activities used to keep equipment and facilities functioning but not part of the finished product. MRO items are typically consumables or spare parts, tools, safety gear, and cleaning supplies that enable maintenance work and day-to-day operations. Managing MRO involves procurement, inventory control, supplier relationship management, and maintenance planning, with the aim of minimizing downtime and total operating costs. Companies often separate MRO spend from direct production costs, as it reflects serviceability and reliability of assets. Modern MRO management commonly uses CMMS or EAM systems to track assets, maintenance tasks, parts usage, and vendor performance, and to support preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance strategies.

In aviation and aerospace, MRO is specialized as maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft, engines, and components. It encompasses line maintenance performed at airports, base maintenance at hangars, overhaul of components, engineering services, and regulatory compliance. Aircraft operators contract MRO providers or maintain in-house capabilities, with certification requirements established by authorities such as the FAA, EASA, or corresponding bodies.

The term MRO can also appear as an organizational or infrastructural acronym for named entities or regional programs, but the core meaning remains maintenance-focused. The specific scope and terminology can vary by industry, but the central idea is preserving asset availability and safety through systematic upkeep.