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We work with the owner of a Phenom 300E who is asking if any other owners are interested in taking a class action relating to the current lack of availability of RH Windshields?

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If you’re on EEC, I’d examine the language of the contract before even attempting that. There’s a severe shortage of many critical parts for Phenoms so unfortunately it’s something most of us have been dealing for years. Airframes are hitting the 800 serial numbers, so what does that do to an already weak support system? Dealing with SKJ and what eParts predicts as part availability anytime something breaks is the biggest stressor in my work life. I’d say our reliability is average but when the jet breaks it usually something big and with availability that’s months away.

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I don't know the specifics of the Phenom windshields, however I have done some research with PPG on others (Citations, Premier). I talked with PPG two weeks ago about the window (including cabin and windshields) issue. I had a glass Citation windshield shatter on me (outer ply) at FL340 recently and the supply chain had my attention even before that due to multiple issues.

1. PPG has increased their workforce significantly since the pandemic. It does take a very long time to fully train staff, and it took them some time to ramp back up to the current level.
2. The production demand of new aircraft, as well as increased flight activity, have placed an unusual strain on the supply chain.
3. It takes a few months from start to finish, to build the heated glass windshields.


Textron was back ordered and even with AOG in my case, I was quoted next summer. They have literally dozens of windshields on order for the Citation Mustang alone for their inventory - only 1 AOG for that model at this time. I was able to locate a new spare windshield from a private party and they offered it to us. So last week it was installed, only AOG one month instead of 10.

I know Jim Lee, Lee Aerospace, and his company also manufactures windows/windshields - and is expanding in the Citation market. Perhaps they may be interested as an alternative vendor, however the design and certification efforts are extensive and take time.

I'm just hoping my RH windshield stays intact and the other jets I operate don't break!

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We look after other owners with different aircraft types (Global, Falcons & Cessna). Whilst I would agree parts are a problem with all of these from time to time, Embraer were very similar on parts supply, but we have not yet had to wait 7 months for a part, which is the time we were told it could be in this case.