Duncan Aviation customers operating Pratt & Whitney Canada PW300 and PW500 series engines now have a dedicated in-house expert in their corner. The company has appointed Dillard Knight as its new engine technical representative, a role specifically designed to streamline technical support, reduce downtime and provide a direct line of communication.

In this position, Knight serves as a bridge between operators and the company's engine technicians, ensuring that every customer receives the highest-quality service with maximum efficiency, whether they are in for a routine inspection or facing a critical AOG event.

Knight's extensive background in engine maintenance ensures that operators receive the precise technical support necessary to keep their aircraft mission-ready and reliable. His 10-year career includes extensive time on Duncan Aviation's engine rapid response team, where he travelled globally to resolve urgent engine issues on-site.

“Dillard always acts in the customer's best interest,” says Tyler Spurling, Duncan Aviation engine line manager. “He has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality solutions efficiently. His hands-on experience with these engines means he understands the nuances of these powerplants and, more importantly, how to get them back in the air safely and quickly.”

Beyond immediate troubleshooting, Knight's appointment brings long-term strategic benefits to Duncan Aviation's clientele. He is currently spearheading an initiative to train and develop engine line technicians to perform on-wing hot-section inspections on PW500 engines. This expansion of service capabilities allows Duncan Aviation's DOF (Designated Overhaul Facility) to remain focused on major overhauls of PW300 and PW500 engines, ultimately providing customers with more flexible, localised and faster maintenance options. By focusing on mentorship and leadership development within the engine line department, Knight is ensuring that the quality and consistency of work delivered to aircraft owners continue to improve.

Knight's journey began in 2015 at Middle Georgia State University. Since joining Duncan Aviation in 2019, he has progressed from engine line technician to team leader, consistently focusing on improving the quality and consistency of work delivered.