Business aircraft MRO shops are adjusting to a lackluster refurbishment and modification market, reeling from the impact of tight budgets, cutbacks in flying and a huge inventory of unsold pre-owned aircraft.

"There is no question that the MRO refurbishment market has slowed considerably compared to what it was a year ago," says Matthew Schepers, paint and interior sales manager for Lincoln, Neb.-based Duncan Aviation. "At that time, about 70 percent of our refurbishment business involved a complete cabin upgrade, which typically included new upholstery, carpeting, sidewalls, cabinets, seating configurations and entertainment systems. Now, only 30 percent of our refurbishment business is that extensive. People are definitely holding back."

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