Application of Maintenance Interval De-Escalation in Base Maintenance Planning Optimization

Abstract

This paper presents a unique approach to aircraft maintenance optimization during base maintenance planning. The necessity to optimize maintenance follows from a need to reduce heavy maintenance visits that require significant downtime and are capital intensive. Further, unnecessary maintenance and frequent opening and closing of panels results in significant wear and tear, and thus reducing the inherent reliability of the aircraft. A simulation model has been developed to predict the maintenance requirement of aircraft in an airline operating under known conditions. Construction and validation of the model are based on knowledge and statistical data of actual operations and maintenance practices. The main use of the model is to group maintenance tasks into manageable packages that can be executed at extended maintenance intervals and within specified periods, and thus increasing aircraft availability. The concept of initial interval de-escalation of maintenance is introduced and its positive effects are demonstrated. Keywords: Aircraft maintenance, clustering, simulation, optimization, Boeing 737NG