Like any other complex mechanical system, aircrafts also require regular maintenance for safety and reliability. Preventive maintenance can identify and resolve the structural and functional problems in an aircraft before they cause a bigger problem.
Both certified aviation technicians and certified pilots can perform preventive maintenance while strongly adhering to the rules and regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
In this blog, we will look at what preventive maintenance looks like and how pilots and aircraft owners can handle it better with safety and efficiency.
What Is Preventive Maintenance?
Preventive maintenance involves the maintenance activities that do not require repair, replacement or assembly of a complex aircraft component. Simply, preventive maintenance is the long list of permitted tasks where you replace the aircrafts components without complex assembly operations.
Preventive aircraft maintenance is done regularly to prevent major functional and structural problems. Usual preventive maintenance tasks include:
- Running tests
- Inspecting and checking for any wear
- Cleaning and lubricating certain aircraft components
- And replacing the items allowed by FAA rules
A pilot, technician, or aircraft owner can perform preventive maintenance as long as they have a pilot certificate. Getting DIY help here is not a wise choice. Hiring a professional to do the job can save you from overlooking many potential problems. Experienced aircraft technicians have the necessary skills and knowledge about the quality of the replacing components and more.
Read More: What Should You Look For When Choosing An Aircraft Mechanic
Types Of Aircraft Preventive Measures
The following are some other types of aircraft maintenance.
Major Repairs
These repairs include activities that, if not done correctly, could have a noticeable impact on the aircraft’s weight balance, power plant operation, structural integrity, flight characteristics, performance, and other aspects affecting its airworthiness.
Any major repairs constitute activities that are not allowed to be performed in preventive maintenance activities and can’t be done by elementary technicians.
Major Alterations
These activities are not listed in the aircraft's engine, propeller, or other aircraft specifications. Similar to major repairs, major alterations can also significantly impact the aircraft’s airworthiness.
These problems usually arise when the repairs or maintenance activities are not performed according to the accepted standards or are left incomplete by elementary technicians.
Minor Repairs And Alterations
These are the activities performed to get the aircraft back to operation and are approved for service return. The only requirement for them to be acceptable is that these are done by certified and licensed technicians and recorded properly in the maintenance manual of the aircraft.
Benefits Of Preventive Aircraft Maintenance
The primary benefit of preventive maintenance is directly linked to aircraft maintenance. By identifying and rectifying the problems early, preventive maintenance helps the aircraft to operate safely with minimal unexpected downtime.
Other than safety improvements, some other benefits of preventive maintenance include:
Reliability
Regular maintenance decreases the chances of equipment failure and converts the equipment into a more trustworthy piece of equipment with less downtime.
In many cases, you can also increase the lifespan of your aircrafts components. For example, regular cleaning and tightening of screws can make an aircraft's exhaust last longer, just as regular oil changes do in a car.
Greater Mechanical Skills
Preventive maintenance performed by the pilots and owners, helps them become better versed about the mechanics of the aircraft. They get a better understanding and are able to identify issues before they occur, which provides them with greater mechanical skills.
Better Efficiency
Preventive maintenance directly translates to lesser downtime and unexpected functional issues. All this makes the aircraft more efficient and smoother in its flight operations.
How Can Acorn Welding Help You?
Acorn Welding has been in the aircraft welding and maintenance industry for years. Our professionals have years of experience in aviation welding and maintenance that keep your aircraft in perfect condition.
We follow all the safety rules and procedures to prevent any hazards during the maintenance process. Apart from this, we also offer aircraft parts. We are a one-stop- shop for engine mounts and other related parts and offer high-quality aircraft welding services. We deliver nothing but the most precise services for aircraft welding. To get in touch with us, click here.
