Charter

When you think of aircraft maintenance, what is the first image that comes to mind? Do you picture an aircraft standing in a big hangar being surrounded by a number of staff, equipment, tools and parts? If so, your answer might be consistent with the vast majority. But did you ever ask yourself what else lies behind the concept? In general, aircraft maintenance can be divided into line and base maintenance. Whereas base maintenance includes activities which require the aircraft to be taken out of service for longer periods and which require special equipment only available in a hangar, line maintenance activities are mostly carried out during normal turnaround periods where the aircraft is on the ground. During line maintenance, the aircraft is not always taken out of service and the maintenance activities can be done at the gate or stand itself (or in a hangar if time permits). Unlike base maintenance, which is always scheduled for longer ground times, line maintenance cannot always be scheduled, since it can imply dealing with unplanned issues arising during normal flight operations. Being well prepared for unplanned maintenance is fundamental to getting an aircraft back into service quickly after experiencing a technical issue, avoiding delays and cancellations. However, as many maintenance departments still communicate via radio or conventional telephones, technical information necessary to perform an unplanned task isn’t always easily available, causing engineers to take longer to complete their job. In order to understand the situation better, let’s have a look at the current workflow in more detail. All information necessary to perform a maintenance task is to be found in the maintenance information system. At the beginning of each shift, the lead engineer reviews all maintenance tasks for the day and assigns them to his or her team members. Equipped with their job assignments and all pertinent documentation the engineers are sent off to their first aircraft, working on routine and special checks. While out on the apron, everything goes according to plan. Nevertheless, unplanned maintenance is never far behind. When informed about a non-routine maintenance task, the lead engineer needs to [...]

What is Meant by Line Maintenance? The definition of aircraft line maintenance is provided in AMC 145.A.10, together with a list of activities which “may” be considered as line maintenance. The word “may” is used because it is not possible to establish a provision giving a strict borderline between line and base maintenance, having general applicability to all cases. According to EASA Part 145, AMC 145.A.10, line maintenance should be understood as “any maintenance that is carried out before flight to ensure that the aircraft is fit for the intended flight.” This may include: Troubleshooting Defect rectification Component replacement, up to and including engines and propellers, with use of external test equipment if required Scheduled maintenance and/or checks including visual inspections that will detect obvious failures but do not require extensive in-depth inspection. It may also include internal structure, systems, and powerplant items which are visible through quick opening access panels/doors Minor repairs and modifications which do not require extensive disassembly and can be accomplished by simple means EASA Part 145, AMC 145.A.10 also explains that “for temporary or occasional cases (ADs, SBs) the Quality Manager may accept base maintenance tasks to be performed by a line maintenance organisation provided all requirements are fulfilled as defined by the competent authority”. It is also noted that “Maintenance tasks falling outside these criteria are considered to be Base Maintenance”. Example of “decision-making process” A 2A maintenance check on a B737 classic aircraft type is normally considered “line maintenance” when the routine tasks are assessed as per the manufacturer MPD/ operator AMP. Therefore a maintenance organisation may be approved to perform this check under a line maintenance scope of work. However, a work order to perform the “2A check”, where the customer operator would request the performance of works in addition to the “2A” routine tasks, such as the addition of ADs, SBs, deferred tasks, will need to be carefully assessed by the maintenance organisation with the use of the “decision-making process”. Note – This type of maintenance check may easily fall within the examples given in the following chapter 1.5 “Example of maintenance [...]

Cappadocia Although storybook visions of colourful hot air balloons are what come to mind when you name drop Cappadocia, there’s more to it than Instagram suggests. Temples cut into rocks and an underground city is more of what’s on offer, whilst its valleys host hiking trails that are as scenic as the views from above. Pamukkale Though Cappadocia has reached an almost impossible level of popularity, Turkey boasts other sights that are equally picturesque. Take Pamukkale, for example. Its travertine terraces of hot springs have drawn weary, pamper-seeking travellers through the ages. Dip your feet in the Pamukkale Antique Pool in the nearby Hierapolis. Ephesus Three kilometres from the town of Selçuk is the ancient city of Ephesus. It was once one of the most important Greek cities in Asia Minor, and its ruins are now famous world over. There’s much to see here but the most beautiful remnants might just be the Temple of Hadrian, Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis and the amphitheatre. While you’re there, stop by the House of the Virgin Mary. Gallipoli The Gallipoli Peninsula has played its part in history and has endured several wars including World War I, whose haunting battlefields now host a number of war memorials. Learn about the ill-fated Gallipoli events by seeing the 3D exhibits at the Çanakkale Epic Presentation Centre in the village of Kabatepe as well as visiting the Lone Pine Cemetery and ANZAC Cove landing site. Turquoise Coast Also known as the Turkish Riviera, the Turquoise Coast certainly lives up to its name and you should make time for the likes of Fethiye, Antalya or Bodrum. This staggering coast boasts shimmering beaches and pristine waters, and sailing is the main pastime. But there are other things to see as well: ancient tombs and ruins, hilltop cities and the 500-kilometre Lycian Way for all hiking trips. Saklikent National Park Adventurous souls will be charmed by Saklikent National Park’s natural beauty and outdoor offerings. It’s home to the famed Saklikent Gorge, one of the deepest in the world, through which gentle rapids run and several waterfalls pour into. Take an invigorating swim in the chilly waters, go [...]