Aircraft on Ground (AOG) downtime is a major cost for airlines and aircraft maintenance organizations. An AOG event occurs when an aircraft must be on the ground due to a mechanical or technical issue. This inconvenience reduces the number of available flights and can cost airlines thousands of dollars in lost revenue, repair costs, and delays.

Here are five tips that airlines and aircraft maintenance organizations can use to avoid AOG downtime.

Utilize Preventive Maintenance Programs

Developing and implementing a preventive maintenance program is essential for keeping aircraft in the air. Operators must prioritize preventive maintenance so critical components—engines, brakes, and landing gear—get regular inspections. 

This maintenance can identify potential problems before they become serious and cause an AOG outage. Additionally, it’s important to document all preventive maintenance activities and use digital technology to track them effectively.

Create Effective Spare Parts Strategies

Spare parts play a crucial role in keeping planes flying without interruption due to an AOG event. Airlines and aircraft maintenance companies need to create efficient spare parts strategies that include stocking critical parts at multiple locations worldwide for quick access if needed during an unexpected incident or emergency. 

Access to surplus parts from other sources is beneficial because it ensures replacements will be available if required during a sudden setback or emergency.

Invest in High-Quality Equipment

Investing in high-quality equipment is the key to avoiding AOG downtime because it ensures repairs are less frequent and less costly when they arise. This reduces overall operational costs associated with keeping an airplane fleet in top condition at all times. Investing in high-quality equipment also guarantees all necessary components are always available when needed, minimizing delays due to unavailability or limited supply of replacement parts or tools during an AOG event.

Train Technicians and Engineers

Ensuring technicians and engineers get adequate training to diagnose and repair issues quickly is essential for avoiding AOG downtime. It’s important to provide employees with the necessary tools, training, and resources they need to address mechanical or technical issues as soon as they arise. Additionally, it’s important to have a standardized maintenance program that ensures all technicians and engineers follow the same procedures for repair and maintenance.

Engage With Reliable Vendors

Airlines and aircraft maintenance companies need to engage with reliable vendors who can provide timely access to parts, tools, and services when needed. Establishing good relationships with vendors can minimize the disruption caused by an AOG event. Make sure these vendors allow you to find parts with the aircraft part number lookup to access the necessary components and equipment and get your planes back in the air.

By following these tips, airlines and aircraft maintenance companies can reduce the risk of AOG downtime and ensure their aircraft remain safe and reliable during operation. With proper planning, training, and management strategies, operators can keep their planes flying with minimal disruption and cost.

Seattle Aviation Solutions offers parts you can search for and buy for your airplanes. Whether you need a part for scheduled maintenance or an emergency repair, you can find the right one with our aircraft part number lookup. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you keep your planes flying safely and efficiently.