JMC Aviation’s Post

Why is Aircraft Maintenance such a crucial Job? Aircraft maintenance is a crucial job that ensures the safety and reliability of air travel. The responsibility carried by aircraft maintenance professionals is immense, as they ensure that every aircraft meets stringent safety standards before it takes to the skies. This job is not only about meticulous inspections and repairs but also about preventive maintenance to avoid potential issues. Working in aircraft maintenance brings significant personal and financial satisfaction. Technicians take pride in knowing their expertise contributes directly to the safety of millions of passengers every day. The rigorous training and certifications required in this field are matched by competitive salaries and job security, reflecting the critical nature of the work. Moreover, the sense of pride that comes with the role cannot be overstated. Each successful flight is a testament to the unseen yet indispensable efforts of the maintenance team. These professionals uphold the trust placed in the aviation industry by ensuring that every aircraft operates at peak performance, allowing travelers to fly safely and confidently. Their dedication and skill are the backbone of modern aviation, making aircraft maintenance an essential and highly respected profession.

Is this how to negotiate with a highly skilled group of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers? WESTJET THREATENS TO CEASE MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS Mar 08, 2024March 8, 2024 In a company-wide webinar held on March 5, WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech described negotiations with the carrier’s Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) as “contentious” and denigrated the Union for seeking American standard terms and conditions of employment for its members. Von Hoensbroech then read from his teleprompter: “With regards to tech ops, there are various operating models in the airline industry. There are airlines that have the majority of their tech ops done in-house. There are airlines that actually have no in-house tech ops at all and outsource it all. So, there are various ways.” Von Hoensbroech then said that he was “optimistic” that WestJet would continue to perform its aircraft maintenance “in-house for the most part” … “But it also requires that the cost at which we operate is in line with the market because at the end of the day, we have to compete with other airlines and these other airlines are free to choose in the market as well with how they operate their tech ops.” “Perhaps von Hoensbroech felt he was being subtle,” commented AMFA Region II Director Will Abbott, “subtle like an anvil dropped on a man’s head.” “Von Hoensbroech’s comments were an unmistakable threat to outsource WestJet’s maintenance operations unless the AMEs moderate their demands. Such threats during the collective bargaining process are unlawful under the Canada Labour Code and we will be filing the appropriate charge with the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB).” “But it’s also bad business. No passenger wants to hear that an airline is getting out of the business of maintaining its own aircraft. When you buy a ticket, you expect your airline to deliver a qualified Pilot, a qualified Flight Attendant, and an aircraft maintained by qualified AMEs. A reputable airline cannot abdicate its responsibility to stand behind the airworthiness of planes.” Fraternally, Will Abbott Region II Director

On background of the recent regrettable aviation incidents, (missing door plug & tyre flew off aircraft after takeoff), I remembered that in the mid 90’s during my service in Saudia Airlines within what used to be called the Technical Services Division at the time, we used to implement a program titled Maintenance Error Decision Aid (MEDA). A structured process used to investigate events caused by maintenance technician and/or inspector performance. Developed originally by the Boeing Company in the early 1990s with the active involvement of three major international airlines, a maintenance staff trade union and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), MEDA was the first structured attempt to enhance the value derived from investigation of maintenance error by providing a process in which human error was placed in its full procedural context. It has since been widely adopted - and adapted - as a basis achieving effective maintenance error investigations worldwide. The MEDA method was developed as a more effective alternative to simply ‘retraining’ employees found to have made maintenance errors. It was realised that by the time a specific individual had been identified as responsible for an error, information about the factors that contributed to the error had often been lost. It was concluded that if the factors which contributed to an error remained, then similar errors would be likely to recur. Boeing describes the MEDA philosophy as being based on three assumptions: * That people want to do the best job possible and do not make errors intentionally Investigators will get more help from employees who do not feel their competence is in question. The employees are more likely to be helpful in identifying the factors that might have contributed to an error and in suggesting possible solutions. I draw the attention to this helpful program after hearing in the news exchange of accusations between NTSB and Boeing regarding denial of receiving/nonexistent of records in the case of the missing door plug. To be continued…..

What you need to know about Aviation Quality and Safety Inspectors (Maintenance). An Aviation Quality and Safety Inspector plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and safety of aviation operations. Here are key aspects they need to be familiar with: 1. **Regulations and Standards:** In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations and industry standards to ensure compliance with safety protocols. 2. **Inspection Procedures:** Understanding and executing thorough inspection procedures for aircraft, components, and facilities to identify any discrepancies. 3. **Documentation Review:** Examining maintenance records, operational documents, and other relevant paperwork to ensure accuracy and adherence to regulations. 4. **Communication Skills:** Effective communication with aviation personnel to address safety concerns, provide feedback, and ensure corrective actions are taken. 5. **Risk Assessment:** Identifying potential safety risks and implementing measures to mitigate or eliminate them. 6. **Continuous Learning:** Staying updated on industry advancements, technological changes, and regulatory updates to maintain proficiency. 7. **Attention to Detail:** Meticulously reviewing aircraft components, maintenance practices, and safety procedures to catch even minor deviations. 8. **Problem-solving:** Ability to analyze complex situations and develop solutions to address safety or quality issues. 9. **Team Collaboration:** Working closely with other aviation professionals, including maintenance crews, pilots, and ground personnel, to foster a culture of safety. 10. **Ethical Standards:** Maintaining high ethical standards and integrity in carrying out inspections and reporting findings. 11. **Decision-Making:** Making sound and timely decisions to ensure the safety and compliance of aviation operations. 12. **Training and Education:** Staying current with required training and certifications to meet industry standards. Overall, an Aviation Quality and Safety Inspector plays a critical role in upholding safety standards in the aviation industry, contributing to the well-being of passengers, crew, and the overall success of air travel. What else would you like to know about Aviation Quality and Safety Department? #avaition #ncaa #aircraft 🛩️ ✈️ 🛫

The manual used by aircraft maintenance technicians to determine whether they can release the aircraft to service for a specific duration is typically known as the Minimum Equipment List (MEL). The MEL provides guidelines for the operation of an aircraft with certain inoperative equipment, specifying the permissible conditions under which an aircraft can continue to operate safely. The categories of defects outlined in the MEL are generally classified as follows: 1. **Category A:** These are the most critical items and represent defects that could significantly impact the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. These items typically require immediate repair or replacement before the aircraft can be released for further operation. 2. **Category B:** These items refer to defects that, while not immediately critical to flight safety, still necessitate prompt repair or attention within a specified timeframe. Whithin three consecutive calendar days (72 hours) excluding the day the malfunction was recorded . 3. **Category C:** This category includes defects that have a minor impact on the operation of the aircraft and can be rectified within a specific time frame, as outlined in the MEL. Whithin ten consecutive calendar days excluding the day the defect was recorded 4. Category D : 120 days Each category is associated with a corresponding time frame within which the maintenance technician must address the identified issue before the aircraft can be released for continued operation.

The very interesting question of the structure of an aircraft's cabin in its power chain is the basis of the meetings with our consultants who are completing the job descriptions. The orders given to our precious consultants are as follows with the following reasons: 1) given that the commander of the ship is always the commander and the first officer is his second, we have decided to enhance their professionalism greatly, adding to this chain of command a cabin manager who will have a commanding weight on the general dynamics outside from the cockpit; 2) it follows that pilots will have much more time to dedicate to their professionalism and flight safety, while every decision regarding the methods of carrying out services, the rules to be adopted in flight, included in the manuals, as well as the announcement part will be managed with decision-making power by the cabin manager. 3) Also, from a salary standpoint, in AviAROMA the career of the cabin manager, albeit a flight assistant, will have the possibility of bringing the salaries of the pilots much closer, as a result of a greater assumption of responsibility; 4) A second mandatory inspection is also introduced, which will be carried out by the cabin chief, i.e., while the pilots are doing the turn-around, the cabin chief will carry out the equipment check on all the equipment functional to the service, speaking directly with the technicians ground support, then reporting to the commander on what was verified and if necessary repaired. The cabin will therefore have two separates, although collaborating, areas with a view to a constructive division of responsibilities within the limits established by the general and company procedures and manuals. This new figure is called General Ambassador and replaces the figure of the cabin manager, as he has been known until now. We also consider this a quantum leap compared to the chalk applied to the on-board organization chart until now.

EASA Ramp Inspections The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) conducts ramp inspections as part of their Safety Assessment. While the specific findings can vary based on the operator and the state of the aircraft, there are several common issues that tend to be identified during these inspections. Some of the most frequently reported findings include: Documentation Issues: Missing, expired, or incorrect documentation for aircraft, crew, and operations. This might include aircraft certificates, licenses, and manuals that are not up to date or not available on board. Flight Preparation and Loading: Problems with load sheets, cargo securing, and passenger manifest discrepancies. Incorrect loading can affect aircraft performance and center of gravity. Emergency Equipment: Missing, expired, or unserviceable emergency equipment such as life vests, fire extinguishers, and oxygen masks. Cockpit/Cabin Issues: Malfunctioning cockpit instruments or cabin issues such as inoperative seat belts, broken seats, and malfunctioning cabin lighting. Communication Equipment: Problems with the aircraft's communication equipment that could affect the crew's ability to maintain contact with air traffic control. Maintenance Records: Incomplete or improper maintenance records, indicating that the aircraft may not have been maintained in accordance with the applicable standards. Flight Crew Licenses and Training: Crew members lacking valid licenses or not having proof of required training, including recent simulator training for emergency situations. Safety Procedures: Inadequate safety procedures or crew not familiar with safety protocols, including those for emergency evacuations. Airworthiness Concerns: Any signs that the aircraft may not be airworthy, including leaks, tire conditions, and the overall mechanical state of the aircraft. EASA's ramp inspections are crucial for maintaining high safety standards in aviation. When issues are identified, the respective operator is required to address them promptly to ensure continued compliance with international safety standards. We will share posts individually addressing each if these common findings. If you have any further questions regarding these or any other elements of EASA Ramp Inspections please reach out to see how we may assist.

Mastering the Fundamentals: FAA Maintenance Record-Keeping Part 1 Good morning, aviation professionals! Today, we're embarking on a journey to explore and understand a critical aspect of our industry: FAA documentation and record-keeping for aircraft maintenance. 🛫 Why is this important? In aviation maintenance records, the smallest detail matters. Accurate maintenance records aren't just about compliance; they're about effectively communicating proper maintenance actions and current condition of airworthiness.  What's Covered?  This series of short deep dives will unravel the complexities of FAA regulations, transforming them into straightforward, practical steps. We're starting with the basics - understanding the bedrock of these regulations and why they're pivotal for every aviation maintenance professional. The Role of the FAA: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets the standards for aviation safety, including maintenance practices. Adhering to their regulations is not just a legal requirement; it's a commitment to safety and professionalism. Key Regulations at a Glance: 14 CFR Part 43: This is your go-to for everything related to maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, and alterations. 14 CFR Part 91: It outlines the general operating and flight rules, including critical aspects of maintenance documentation. Stay Tuned! In our upcoming posts, we'll break down these parts, highlighting what you need to record, how to maintain your records, and how to ensure your documentation is always audit-ready. Proper record-keeping is the silent hero of aviation safety. It's not just about filling out forms; it's about building a legacy of reliability and trust in the aviation world. Follow us, as we look into the regulatory world of proper maintenance documentation and how to know both as an aircraft technician and an owner/operator if your maintenance documentation meets the regulatory requirements.  #AviationMaintenance #FAACompliance #SafetyFirst #AircraftDocumentation

Some workers have jobs that pose a significant risk to the safety of themselves and those around them, where one lapse in judgement could lead to catastrophic consequences. That’s why Safety Critical Medicals are so important. They assess the physical and mental capability of workers to ensure they can perform their tasks safely and effectively. So what kind of roles typically require a Safety Critical Medical? Aviation: Pilots, Air Traffic Controllers and other aviation personnel undergo medicals to ensure they are fit to operate aircraft safely. Transportation: Bus, Train and Tram Operators require medicals to ensure they can drive safely without endangering their passengers. Healthcare: Staff involved in critical care, emergency response or surgical procedures can be given a medical to ensure they can physically and mentally cope with high-pressure situations. Construction: Workers in construction or engineering undergo medicals to ensure they can handle the physical demands of their role and operate heavy machinery effectively. Oil and gas: Employees at offshore drilling rigs or other hazardous environments require safety critical medicals to assess their fitness for duty in challenging conditions. If you need Safety Critical Medicals for your workers, then contact us today at [email protected]  or give us a call on 0121 601 4041 #HealthAndSafety #SafetyFirst #WorkplaceHealth #SafetyCritical

This week we carried out some repairs at an Airside Hanger at one of Scotlands Airports Watching aircraft engineers at work is indeed a fascinating experience. Their meticulous attention to detail, precision, and unwavering sense of responsibility are truly commendable. Every nut, bolt, and wire is scrutinized with care, knowing that the safety of countless passengers relies on their expertise. Their approach raises an intriguing question: What if we all adopted such a mindset in other industries, particularly in #fireandsecurity? Imagine a world where every fire alarm system is installed with the same level of precision as an aircraft's control panel. The implications are profound. Precision in fire and security systems could mean the difference between life and death in critical situations. Just as an aircraft engineer meticulously checks and double-checks every component, ensuring it functions flawlessly, so too should fire and security professionals scrutinize every aspect of their systems. Responsibility is another key aspect. Aircraft engineers understand the weight of their responsibility; they know that even the smallest oversight could have catastrophic consequences. Similarly, those tasked with ensuring fire safety and security must recognize the gravity of their role. Each decision they make, every system they install or maintain, directly impacts the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. By embracing the precision and responsibility exemplified by aircraft engineers, the fire and security industries could reach new heights of effectiveness and reliability. It requires a cultural shift, a commitment to excellence, and a recognition of the importance of their work. The work of aircraft engineers serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of precision and responsibility in all industries, particularly in those tasked with ensuring the safety and security of others. By taking inspiration from their approach, we can strive for excellence and elevate standards across the board, ultimately creating safer environments for everyone. #firealarm #security #maintenance