A Guide For Preventing Common Aircraft Repair Issues

Aircraft maintenance is undeniably expensive, with costs stacking ever higher between parts, labor, and lost opportunity. Many types of repairs can be prevented by following proper inspection and aircraft maintenance procedures however, and in this blog, we’ll break down five of the most common and preventable parts failures, as well as how to keep them from failing.

A turbine’s fan blades are an essential part of the engine, so keeping them in good condition via regular inspections is essential. Turbine Fan blades can be affected by conditions like an aircraft’s home base, the missions undertaken, if they are exposed to harsh weather conditions, sand, and humidity. Applying lubrication to the blades every twelve months, however, can help extend the lifespan of the blades and delay expensive replacement costs.

Air conditioning heat exchangers are tasked with regulating and maintaining comfortable cabin temperatures. Whether the aircraft is operating in Arizona or Montana however, these heat exchangers should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year to stop contamination from building up inside them.

Depending on the home base of the aircraft and what mission types it flies on, contamination in the fuel tanks from both water and microbial growth can be a serious issue. To prevent contamination, fuel tanks should be drained more frequently, along with regular sample checks. This is particularly necessary in hot and humid areas, where microbial growth can occur more easily.

Aircraft parking procedures are often overlooked, but absolutely critical. Obstructed or blocked pitot and static ports can be expensive to repair, and potentially dangerous if they cause the aircraft’s instruments to malfunction while in flight. Covering these ports while the aircraft is parked, regardless if it is parked outside or in a hangar, is essential. So is providing aircraft engine covers, especially for aircraft that operate in sandy areas like the Middle East. Sand can contaminate the inside of the engine, causing vibrations, high fuel consumption, higher engine gas temperatures, and clogging the cooling hoses.

An aircraft’s water system should be regularly drained, especially in cold, wintery environments where condensation can occur. If it isn’t, cracks and leaks can cause a cascading number of other issues, especially if water reaches any of the avionics.

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