The aviation industry has been undergoing significant changes in recent years, driven by technological advancements and the increasing demand for safe and efficient air transportation. One area that has seen significant advancements is aircraft maintenance, with the implementation of progressive technologies playing a crucial role. The use of digital technologies has revolutionized the way aircraft maintenance is carried out. For instance, the adoption of predictive maintenance algorithms has enabled airlines to predict when their aircraft will require maintenance, reducing downtime and increasing operational efficiency. This has been made possible by the integration of real-time data. Another technology that has transformed aircraft maintenance is the use of augmented reality and virtual reality. These technologies allow maintenance engineers to carry out procedures with greater accuracy and efficiency, as they can see instructions and parts overlaid on their real-world view. This has been particularly useful for complex and critical tasks, where human error could result in significant consequences. The algorithmization and digitalization of processes is one of the many pillars of the Industry 4.0 concept, which, if used correctly, can dramatically enhance the execution of processes. The algorithmic approach presented in this study can be easily adapted to other industries, and could potentially lead to similar optimizations in other fields. Overall, the implementation of progressive technologies in aircraft maintenance has improved safety, reduced downtime, and increased operational efficiency.
Aviation and climate change are often associated. The effects of climate change have increasing impact on the safe operation of airports. Due to both climate and weather conditions changes, airport winter maintenance is a significantly important activity of airports, especially in areas where a harsh winter season is expected. Continuous optimization of airport winter maintenance processes is necessary. The aim of this article is to present a possible way to optimize maintenance processes using simulation tools. The team of researchers identified key factors that are necessary for the application of the optimization. The article presents a procedure designed for safe handling of one of the model situations in winter maintenance of airports. The model of simulation defines critical points in the maintenance procedures designed for maintenance optimization using the data obtained from an international airport. Based on the determination of critical points of the maintenance procedures processed using a Gantt chart, the authors analyzed the differences of the performed procedures applied in the airport. The result of applied research is the identification of the next critical points in the simulation that may potentially represent critical activities of the winter maintenance procedure and have an influence on their optimization.
The aim of the article is to analyze the functionality of the Boeing MCAS system. MCAS is identified as the main culprit of two air accidents that impacted Boeing and grounded Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Many findings indicate that the above type of aircraft was released into service with many errors that had an impact on aircraft control, and it is clear that Boeing knew about these errors and specifically kept them secret. Boeing kept the errors from affecting the production of the 737 MAX and at the same time losing competition against Airbus. Investigations and certification of this type are not completed even one year after their grounding and this process will have a long-term impact on the entire aviation industry.
The article presents an estimate of human factor reliability in aircraft operation. The analysis of human factor reliability to identify possible human errors and their impact is the systematic assessment of factors affecting workers. The analysis includes the identification of important sites affected by various errors caused by high noise burden. The impact of noise on humans, especially in terms of the upper decibel scale or the long-term exposure of the decibel scale, leads to body strain and human error during work. The reliability of the human factor in aircraft operation is estimated by the TESEO method.
Paper presents functions and maintenance procedures of auxiliary power unit. Auxiliary power unit is used as a source of electrical power on the ground and it can be also used in the event of dissipation of an engine generator. An electrical system is essential component of the most simplistic aircraft designs. System complexity and capacity varies between different types of engines. Auxiliary power unit is also designed to provide bleed air by diverting some compressor discharge air from the path to the combustor and into the airplane duct system.
This article discusses the issues of winter airport maintenance. It discusses the use of an information system to support winter maintenance of airports in the process of planning and coordination. Specifically, it aims to define the key components, which are necessary for proper operation and quality outputs of this system. It highlights the current challenges in this field of research. Article includes a step sequence methodology proposed by the author on how to deal with winter weather events.