Maintaining and repairing aircraft systems is a crucial task for airport managers and technicians. Aircraft systems include the components and functions that enable an aircraft to fly safely and efficiently, such as engines, avionics, hydraulics, fuel, landing gear, and more. In this article, you will learn some tips and best practices on how to perform this task effectively.
Before you start working on any aircraft system, you need to have a solid understanding of the basic principles and concepts that govern its operation. You should also be familiar with the manuals, regulations, and standards that apply to the system. For example, you should know how to read and interpret the aircraft maintenance manual (AMM), the minimum equipment list (MEL), and the airworthiness directives (ADs) for the system you are working on. You should also be aware of the safety precautions and procedures that you need to follow.
Technical Instructor @ Air Niugini | B1 LAME-B747 B767 B737 A330 ATR 42/72 FOKKER 70/100
Get into an apprenticeship or join an ab initio training school for the basic course.Choose the pathway of Mechanical or Avionics.Graduate and join a 145 maintenance organization to build up on your experience and skills set.Thats the foundation of your career as a maintainer.Later on,work on getting the appropriate licenses for the aircraft that you work on.It may be expensive but it'll be worth it in the long run for you.
Listen and get input from your most experienced mechanics. Have Avionics, Engine and Sheetmetal shops set up. Have shifts overlap so crews can have face to face turnovers.
make sure you know what you are doing - and the differences between heavy public transport AMO vs private / general aviation maintenance practices and procedures. I also helps to comprehend the differences in who controls maintenance quality between each and wht your license is actually issued for in relation to what work is being ccomplished and signed for. It it a machine maintenance or an airworthiness maintenance function you re performing or licensed for. Do not forget that in order for an AMO to operate it is required to employ certain license holders but many AMO personnel believe their Regulator issued license is not required in an AMO setting and that it simply defaults to a shop issued certification authority - check the regs!
Maintaining and repairing aircraft systems effectively requires a combination of technical knowledge, adherence to regulations, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. Here are some general guidelines: Obtain the necessary education and training in aviation maintenance. This typically involves attending a certified aviation maintenance technician school and obtaining relevant certifications. Stay current with advancements in aircraft technology through continuous education and training programs.
In this day, besides the standard training requirements of writing the technical exams and going through an apprenticeship program a good way to gain knowledge of aircraft systems and to pick up skills based on real-life situations is to binge online content like YouTube videos and TikTok, reels, and other social media posts from aviator content creators who share their experiences growing and working as engineers. In a lot of cases, You get to view processes on aircraft that you may not normally have access to and better still you get content on an aircraft you are actually working on. Gives you an idea of what has to be done and how before you do it, the comments section is a great place to network with other experts and to ask questions.
Another important aspect of maintaining and repairing aircraft systems is to use the right tools and equipment for the job. You should have access to the appropriate diagnostic, testing, and calibration devices that can help you identify and resolve any issues or faults in the system. You should also have the proper tools and materials to perform the required repairs or replacements. For example, you should use the correct torque wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and fasteners for the system you are working on. You should also use the approved sealants, lubricants, and cleaners for the system.
Verification of shelf life of sealants, lubricants and handling, appropriate use of PPE. Validation of maintenance by assuring closure of documentation.
Technical Instructor @ Air Niugini | B1 LAME-B747 B767 B737 A330 ATR 42/72 FOKKER 70/100
Many Part 145 that maintain commercial fleet will provide you with all the necessary toolings as part of their FOD Control program.Other smaller private maintenance operators may require you to bring your own set of tools.Only use approved and valid consumables as per the manuals.Refer the MSDS for safety advice.
Another important aspect of maintaining and repairing aircraft systems may involve routine and preventative maintenance schedules based on the manufacturer's recommendations and past performance data of the aircraft systems. This approach should be evaluated for its effectiveness in addressing the indicators defined above.
When you are maintaining and repairing aircraft systems, you should always follow the instructions and procedures that are provided by the manufacturer, the regulator, or the operator. You should not deviate from the established steps or methods unless you have a valid reason and authorization. You should also document and record your actions and results in the appropriate forms and logs. For example, you should fill out the maintenance work order (MWO), the maintenance release (MR), and the logbook entry for the system you are working on. You should also report any discrepancies or anomalies that you encounter.
Ensure maintenance intervals are strictly followed. Address all issues promptly, no matter how small. Hire and train qualified maintenance personnel. Allocate a sufficient budget for maintenance to ensure quality.
Maintaining and repairing aircraft systems can be a complex and challenging task that requires a lot of skill and experience. Sometimes, you may encounter a problem or a situation that you are not sure how to handle or solve. In such cases, you should not hesitate to seek advice and assistance from your colleagues, supervisors, or experts. You should also consult the relevant sources of information and guidance that are available to you, such as the technical support hotline, the troubleshooting guide, or the online forum for the system you are working on.
Adjusting maintenance schedules based on component performance. Implementing new technologies or processes that have proven effective elsewhere.
Finally, maintaining and repairing aircraft systems is a continuous learning and improvement process that requires you to update your knowledge and skills regularly. You should always be open to new ideas and innovations that can help you perform your task better and faster. You should also seek feedback and evaluation from your peers, managers, or customers on your performance and quality of work. You should also participate in training and development programs that can help you enhance your competence and confidence in maintaining and repairing aircraft systems.
Have highly trained technicians who understand and can troubleshoot any problems that they may face in carrying out the required maintenance on the aircraft.
Streamline the maintenance process without compromising the efficacy: Eliminate redundant checks or maintenance steps that add no value. Standardize maintenance procedures to reduce variability and errors. Invest in training to ensure all personnel understand and can execute the simplest effective solution.
By appropriate diagnostic, testing and by using devices that can help to identify and resolve any issues or faults in the system.