There are almost 30 thousand airplanes in the world right now, and they include both passenger and cargo crafts. They are the reason why we can safely travel from one part of the world to the other, and why we can do that in hours, instead of days or weeks. Aircraft are extremely complex units that need to be thoroughly checked and inspected in order for them to function properly. In this article, we are going to talk about the types of maintenance that are done on airplanes, and how often do they need to be checked and inspected.
Why is maintenance important?
Before we talk about the types of upkeep, and how often is it done, let’s first delve into why is it so important.
Well, the main reason is performance, and if the unit is not properly maintained, it will not perform as needed and it may jeopardize the safety and security of the crew and the passengers. Note that regular upkeep will also prolong the lifetime of the aircraft, and it will make sure that the unit is as durable as it should be.
With the right type of regular upkeep, you will maintain a good aircraft performance, you will ensure the safety of your crew and passengers, you will extend the life of the unit itself, and you will also save costs in the long run.
Note that even though the airplane can work perfectly even if it is not regularly checked, all of that will affect its overall condition, and once you choose to check it and fix the parts that need to be fixed, that can cost a lot more.
As we already know, changing and fixing parts is already really expensive, but if you don’t do the regular upkeep, those prices will be sky-high.
In addition to all this, the companies do the regular upkeep so that they don’t experience any lost flights due to breakings and damages. When the aircraft are regularly checked, they can continue working and flying on schedule. On the other hand, if the craft is not approved for taking off, companies risk losing tens, maybe even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their delays and schedules.
Types
There are several different types of upkeep that every aircraft goes under, and the time frame when this is done depends on the type of maintenance needed.
The line upkeep is the one that is most frequently done, and this includes checking the basic things. The brakes, along with the wheels and the fluids levels are checked in order to ensure that the craft is ready to take off and that it is going to be able to land.
The next type we are going to talk about is called A check and in this part of the upkeep things like the slides, as well as the filters will be inspected. Sometimes, some parts need to be changed, and this upkeep is put in place so that there aren’t any unpleasant surprises. Note that this is a more detailed maintenance process than line one.
Note that the hardware is not the only part that is being inspected regularly, and the software needs to be checked as well. According to Aviation InterTec, regular upkeep consists of collaborating with professionals, using aircraft maintenance management software solutions, and making sure that every check is done promptly and correctly.
The C maintenance is a type of heavy-duty check, and during this time everything in the cabin is checked, fixed, and replaced, including the interior. During this time, things can get upgraded to newer models and newer units.
The last type we are going to talk about is the D check and this is the most thorough one. During this procedure, it is said that the craft is completely stripped of its parts and every single nook and cranny is checked. No matter if we are talking about the exterior of the unit, the interior, even the toilets, and the cabin, every single thing is dismantled, checked, and then put back together. This type is the most complex one, and it requires the longest time to be done. Note that even the engines and the landing gear are taken out and inspected.
How often is it done?
When it comes to specific schedules, as we mentioned before, it all depends on the type of upkeep that is scheduled. According to experts, the most basic type of upkeep, line one is done every week, and each craft will spend half a day in this type of check. Know that this type of care is done all around the world, every moment of every day. It is the most basic and important one, and without it, we wouldn’t be able to have our crafts in the air.
When it comes to the A check, it is usually done every two or two and a half months. However, this time may vary depending on the type of aircraft we are maintaining, and the time it has spent in use. Older models may be checked more frequently.
The C type is usually scheduled every 18 to 24 months, and the whole process may take up to one month. Note that during this time all parts of the cabin are inspected, and when the craft undergoes these inspections, it is not in working condition. Because of this, schedules are needed, and every craft undergoes this check when it is time.
The last maintenance process we mentioned is the D type, and depending on the type of craft, it is done every 6 to 12 years. Since this is the process that takes the most time, experts are included who have the knowledge and experience in this type of process.
These are some of the basic things you need to know about the inspection and maintenance process that is done on commercial and cargo planes. Know that depending on the type of craft you are using the numbers may vary, and you can always talk to a professional when it comes to details and specific models. If you are looking for a service that will help you with the upkeep, you need to collaborate with those who have the needed knowledge, experience, and expertise.
