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Article
Publication date: 23 February 2022

Tarik Gunes, Ugur Turhan and Birsen Yörük Açıkel

This study aims to bring a new approach to the existing structure of Cessna 172 type Aircraft Maintenance Manuals (AMM), operational safety, suitability for maintenance operations…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to bring a new approach to the existing structure of Cessna 172 type Aircraft Maintenance Manuals (AMM), operational safety, suitability for maintenance operations and human factors. The purpose of this study is to maintain maintenance operations more safely and effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

This study tried to develop an approach by using focus group interview and individual interview techniques. At all stages of the study, interviews were made and support was received from the maintenance technicians, technical instructors and students from the aviation industry stakeholders.

Findings

According to the answers given by the participants, the new approach could have a positive effect on operational safety (98.71%), could have a positive effect on human performance (95.72%) it is understandable (93.16%), it is proper for maintenance operations (88.74%) with high potential to convert into practice (85.92%) and a high potential for future applications (97.06%).

Practical implications

It can be used in aviation organizations that operate AMM Cessna 172 type aircraft, created with the new approach, in maintenance aircraft maintenance enterprises and maintenance training institutions. Thanks to this approach, aircraft maintenance technicians will be able to perform safely and more effective maintenance activities.

Originality/value

Contrary to the technologies used by organizations that host wide-body aircraft in their fleets, it requires less cost and less workload to create, use and update. Low-cost airline organizations and maintenance training institutions will also be able to achieve this approach.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 94 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 November 1980

R.A. FRY

Aircraft maintenance engineer licensing commenced in the United Kingdom in 1919, and in the U.S.A. a few years later, for the good reason it was considered essential to aircraft

Abstract

Aircraft maintenance engineer licensing commenced in the United Kingdom in 1919, and in the U.S.A. a few years later, for the good reason it was considered essential to aircraft safety that the persons maintaining aircraft should have a high level of competency. Both States held that it was a function of the State to assess the competency and award the licence, although subsequently there have been some deviations from this principle in the United Kingdom.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 52 no. 11
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Article
Publication date: 18 October 2018

Ebru Yazgan and Ayşe Kucuk Yilmaz

Airline business management is set on airworthy strategy. Airline sustainability depends upon corporate-based airworthy strategy as airworthiness is the base to any airline…

Abstract

Purpose

Airline business management is set on airworthy strategy. Airline sustainability depends upon corporate-based airworthy strategy as airworthiness is the base to any airline business management and strategy. An airline can ensize its corporate sustainability if it has airworthiness strategy and risk management. The main condition to survive in the airline business is to maintain airworthiness with the fleet, maintenance and corporate-risk management. Aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) has a dual role in aircraft maintenance system as the source of failure in maintenance process via his volatility and unmanageable qualifications and secondly source of manager of maintain airworthiness of the aircrafts in airline. Situational awareness of managers about both limitations and qualifications of human factors is vital determinant to the decision-making process in aviation. Although continuously improving in related literature, one of the biggest weaknesses of the current methods of AMT error or performance is that the ability to model the reciprocal effects of the factors affecting the fault is limited. For this reason, this study aims to develop an analytic network process (ANP) model that takes into account the effects of mutual dependences among factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, with the help of experts and extensive literature, 67 factors that contributed to AMT error are identified and grouped. Then, the factors identified as eligible criteria and sub-criteria that contributed to the AMT errors are determined. In this study, the weights of identified criteria that have influence on AMT error try to determine by using ANP method. ANP is the common method to solve multi-criteria decision-making problems and is used to calculate priorities of factors. Criteria determined in this study are classified into three main clusters: “individual-related criteria”, “working environment-related criteria” and “organisational-related criteria”. These main clusters include 15 sub criteria such as communication, documentation (quality/updating/availability) and peer pressure.

Findings

The result of this study shows that time pressure, organisational culture, safety culture and supervision are the most important criteria that contributed to AMT error. Their weights are 0.207, 0.172, 0.102 and 0.094, respectively.

Originality/value

There are many difficulties and limitations in measuring the factors that have an influence on AMT errors. For this reason, the weights of criteria and sub-criteria necessary are determined using ANP, and in this manner, it is possible to make better decisions in this process as ANP is a multi-criteria decision-making technique that considers qualitative factors in decision-making problems. The factors’ taxonomy determined as a result of the expert opinions and the extensive literature and the ANP model developed taking into account the dependencies between the factors will contribute to the literature.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 91 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 October 2018

Ayşe Kucuk Yilmaz and Ebru Yazgan

Main issue in management and strategy is corporate performance. Managers seek effective and strategic way to improve their performance. Authorization, which includes reputational…

Abstract

Purpose

Main issue in management and strategy is corporate performance. Managers seek effective and strategic way to improve their performance. Authorization, which includes reputational and strategic indicators, is one of these ways. The applying authorization and using this authorization are decision-making process for managers. These processes have potential to make considerable effect on corporate performance. As a considerable result of this research that need of resource dependency type certified aircraft technicians in Anadolu University are decreased owing to this research and, also the purpose of this study is that technicians have got opportunity to creating own human resource in view of both sustainability, and competition in training field.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, both specified and organizational-tailored flowchart as the problem solving techniques in decision-making process of maintenance training organization have been developed, compiled after taking the opinions of experts, for the effective implementation of type rating training, following approval, that cover the types of fleet at Anadolu University. This flowchart may guide to the relevant aircraft maintenance training organizations in their type trainings implementation process.

Findings

Human factor is both vital and necessary element to achieve high corporate performance. By following the flow chart, the implementation process is shortened by eliminating the difficulties in complying with the depth and complexity of the required regulation.

Originality/value

The development of the necessary skills and competencies of the workforce is one of the critical points for the creation, preservation and improvement of corporate value. This research has been carried out with the aim of effective utilization of institutional resources, development of personnel and hence corporate value creation. Anadolu University, which is aware of the importance of core competence, is trying to make it one of its strengths institutionally. The Anadolu University Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics, as an organization that has completed the necessary steps to become authorized to give type rating training, may guide other aviation organizations using the organization-specified tailored flow chart developed with the help of expert opinion.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 90 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 May 2009

Ramin Karim, Peter Söderholm and Olov Candell

The purpose of this paper is to describe a taxonomy for an eMaintenance management framework (eMMF) based on a service‐oriented approach, in order to facilitate the development of…

2182

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a taxonomy for an eMaintenance management framework (eMMF) based on a service‐oriented approach, in order to facilitate the development of information and communication technology (ICT)‐based maintenance support services aimed at actors within the maintenance process related to complex technical industrial systems.

Design/methodology/approach

To fulfil this purpose, a case study of a modern multi‐role combat aircraft is selected as an appropriate research strategy and supported by a literature study. Empirical data are collected through interviews, workshops, document studies, and observations. A framework is developed and evaluated using a prototype within the studied case. The study is performed in close cooperation with the aircraft's type certificate holder and the customer representative and operator in one country.

Findings

The proposed eMMF aids in the identification and development of ICT‐based maintenance support services tailored for specific maintenance actors and their activities.

Research limitations/implications

To further test the usefulness of the proposed framework, a larger scale application must be performed. This can involve additional stakeholders or a larger part of the technical system in the selected case, or another case dealing with complex technical industrial systems.

Practical implications

The proposed framework supports the identification of required information services that support the maintenance process, which in turn supports the development of a service‐oriented architecture (SOA) aimed at proper maintenance information logistics. Hence, people working with information logistics for maintenance purposes can use the framework as a support tool.

Originality/value

The proposed framework combines a process and service‐oriented approach, which facilitates the development of SOA‐based information services by giving valuable input to more traditional system‐oriented approaches.

Details

Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering, vol. 15 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2511

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 1979

R.A. FRY, CEng, FSLAET MRAeS and MInstDT

At any point of time on any day of these 1970s, international air traffic is moving a vast population across frontiers. The passengers obediently fasten seat belts, the big jets…

Abstract

At any point of time on any day of these 1970s, international air traffic is moving a vast population across frontiers. The passengers obediently fasten seat belts, the big jets capture the glideslope and then roll in towards the terminal. The disembarking passengers leave the aircraft thinking about immigration and customs, the transit passengers glean a quick impression of a possibly unknown land beyond the terminal, and the boarding passengers speculate on the relative advantages of aisle or window seats. Very few of these people will consider whether the vehicle which carries them so comfortably presents any problems to the technicians at the airports visited en route.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 51 no. 12
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Article
Publication date: 6 November 2017

Berrin Denizhan and Alperen Doğru

With every passing day, the center of gravity for air traffic for the Middle East and Turkey is shifting toward becoming a center for airway transport, maintenance, repair…

Abstract

Purpose

With every passing day, the center of gravity for air traffic for the Middle East and Turkey is shifting toward becoming a center for airway transport, maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO) and transfer. The MRO sector is gaining importance because of this increase in Turkey. The purpose of this study is to examine the future employability of the graduates receiving civil aviation maintenance training in Turkey.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses past seven years’ data about maintenance personnel of Turkey. It includes all-level students, recently working personnel and retired personnel of each year. Regression analysis and Markov analysis were used to show the prediction of aviation maintenance personnel.

Findings

The paper provides quantitative results about employability of maintenance personnel under the real numbers of alumni and working and retired personnel in Turkey. The results show that the number of graduates will be greater than the number of staff members in certifying categories in 2018. Presently, Turkey meets the employment expected, but in the future, aviation maintenance personnel number is rising, and there will be an excess number of graduates left over in Turkey.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen region, Turkey, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to conduct analysis for other countries which have an important role in aviation.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for the government maintenance personnel policy and educational policy for managing all types of maintenance personnel in Turkey.

Originality/value

This kind of personnel needs analysis has not been done before, and this is the originality of this paper. It will in turn lead to an analysis of planning for allocation of maintenance staff and alumni. The authors collected all official numbers about maintenance personnel from Turkish Student Selection and Placement Center of Turkey, Turkish Technic and Turkish Civil Aviation Reports.

Details

European Journal of Training and Development, vol. 41 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-9012

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 October 2018

Ebru Yazgan and Ayşe Kucuk Yilmaz

Training management has critical in developing of civil aviation sector in Turkey. It requires using serious corporate sources for this reason is directly topic of aviation…

Abstract

Purpose

Training management has critical in developing of civil aviation sector in Turkey. It requires using serious corporate sources for this reason is directly topic of aviation management and strategy.it is also about process management. According to this view, this paper aims to become a guidance to management training for maintenance or training organisations in the aviation sector wishing to obtain the authorisation, given national civil aviation authority (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), of providing type rating trainings that cover the types of aeroplanes including Beech 90 Series, Socata TB Series and Cessna/Reims-Cessna 172/F172 Series.

Design/methodology/approach

Aviation training organisations must be managed according to aviation law and regulations. It includes several approval processes about training content. Managers must be organising their resources, and they should get well timely decision made in optimum time. In this study, a flowchart, that is the procedure to follow in accordance with the related aviation regulations, has been developed while taking the opinion of experts and using experience gained from the approval process for the type trainings. This flowchart may gain time to managers in their approval process. It may use as guidance to create optimum flow in their process management.

Findings

The purpose of flowchart developed is to shorten the authorisation processes of the relative institutions by eliminating the challenges caused by the excess and complexity of national or international regulations related to the of authorisation of aircraft type rating training.

Originality/value

It is important to gain authority. But more important is to manage the authority as sustainable way in aviation training. Loosing authority in specific field may effect on both corporate reputation and doing aviation business. Anadolu University manages related risk via scientific project during using their authorisation. The results developed as a result of the expert opinions and the experience gained during the aircraft type training authorisation process will contribute to the literature. When considered from this point of view, it is expected for this study to fill an important gap in the literature. It is highly important for the aviation sector in terms of evaluating and interpreting academically such a process for practice, and also raising awareness or providing awareness for similar practices. It may also useful for process management.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 90 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 November 2021

Ebru Yazgan, Necmettin Firat Ozkan and Berna Haktanirlar Ulutas

Aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) is the most critical profession in the aircraft maintenance system. The tasks of a licensed AMT require expertise and involve repetitive…

Abstract

Purpose

Aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) is the most critical profession in the aircraft maintenance system. The tasks of a licensed AMT require expertise and involve repetitive physical tasks such as tightening or loosening aircraft parts, carrying or removing parts during long working hours under time pressure and day/night shifts. This study aims to attract attention to the difficult working conditions of AMTs and identify the body parts that are at risk of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD).

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire is developed by the authors to gather demographic information, use of hand tools, equipment, use of fall protection, manual material handling (lifting, pushing, pulling), load weight, environmental factors, and MSD discomfort level perceptions. The questionnaire is applied to 150 AMTs during six months period, and the obtained data are analyzed by sequential ordinal logistic regression (OLR) models.

Findings

The ORL results confirm that the use of equipment (lift platform, scissors lift), safety belt attached to the platform, manual material handling, environmental factors (humidity, vibration and illumination) and resting periods have a significant effect on MSD risks. On the contrary, age, experience level, use of small hand tools, temperature and noise are not identified as statistically significant.

Originality/value

The study is original for it considers the working conditions and perceived discomfort levels of AMTs. A questionnaire is introduced to assess the consequences of the use of tools, equipment, fall protection equipment, environmental conditions and work organization on various body parts (neck, shoulder, elbow, back, lower back, wrist-hand, hip, knee, and ankle-feet), and strain level is identified. The study contributes to the theoretical aircraft maintenance literature and managers in practice.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 94 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 October 2018

Ebru Yazgan

Contemporary management and strategy mean optimization of ingredient factors such as human factors, systems, operations and equipment. With system approach in management and…

Abstract

Purpose

Contemporary management and strategy mean optimization of ingredient factors such as human factors, systems, operations and equipment. With system approach in management and strategy, human risk factor as input has considerable potential to change results as airworthiness in aviation management. The managers of aviation business also optimize their functions to act safe while making contribution to development in triple of sustainability as economic development and its sustainability; social development and its sustainability; and environmental development and its sustainability. Corporate sustainability can be accomplished via supporting workforce which is the human risk factor. To support (empowerment) workforce, researchers should identify human risk or error factors which are important to this research. The purpose of this study is to suggest holistic framework for working environment system of aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs) within two respects such as human performance (ergonomics) and corporate performance (sustainability). The secondary purpose of this system is to develop human risk taxonomy by determining the factors affecting both human and work by taking ergonomic aspects in aviation.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a taxonomy of human risk factors for AMTs is developed. These human factors divided into groups and subfactors are obtained from an extensive literature review and experts’ opinions in the field of human performance in aviation. Taxonomy developed will be useful to both sharing and using corporate sources in sustainable way.

Findings

Human risk factors can be considered or accepted as factors that cause human error. This may result in the optimum way to managing human risk factor via minimizing human-based error. Personality, hazardous attitudes, individual characteristics, physical/psychological condition of AMTs and corporate social responsibility factors are human-related risk variables in this study. The risks and error can be reduced by recognizing these factors and revealing their relation to ergonomic design.

Originality/value

The results of this study are intended to constitute a guide for managers to manage risk factors and to take corrective and preventive actions for their maintenance operations. It is believed that this study is highly important for the aviation sector in terms of raising awareness or providing awareness for similar practices. As taxonomy of the risk factors contributes to the managing human error, corrective actions related to these factors must be taken by managers.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 90 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

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