Optimization of the aircraft general overhaul process

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the development results of the overhaul melioration plan for the following aircraft types: MiG‐21Bis, G‐4 Galeb and SA‐341 helicopter. This research has been conducted based on available knowledge and extensive experience gained by performing general maintenance of the Air Force of Serbia aircraft.

Design/methodology/approach

A general analysis was performed by processing data collected while performing maintenance and repair procedures. The magnitude of data is based on detecting the delays and errors that occurred while going through the operational and inter‐operational stages of aircraft overhaul. On the basis of the obtained research results, a proposal for the aircraft overhaul optimization is offered.

Findings

The proposed overhaul improvement plan points out the priority steps to be taken in order to optimize the most critical features that jeopardize the quality of the aircraft overhaul process relating to organization, technology and design. Moreover, existing technical logistics have been used for providing actions to achieve the objective in focus: the all‐encompassing optimization of the above selected aircraft overhaul.

Research limitations/implications

The method of the overhaul optimization has so far been applicable to the aircraft of the Army of Serbia. However, the particular methodology can be proved potentially useful and highly germane when applying to other aircraft types.

Originality/value

A plan to optimize the overhaul is based on a one‐year monitoring process of the aforementioned aircraft. It enables significant savings in performing overhauls within the financial realm as well as time‐wise.

Citation

Rašuo, B. and Đuknić, G. (2013), "Optimization of the aircraft general overhaul process", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 85 No. 5, pp. 343-354. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-02-2012-0017