The process of aircraft damage assessment at the end of a lease involves several key steps to ensure the aircraft is returned in the condition agreed upon in the lease terms. Here is a summary based on the text provided and additional industry practices:
Initial Damage Identification: The first step involves a thorough inspection to identify any visible damage, such as impacts or dents. This could be conducted during a standard walk-around check.
Utilizing Damage Documentation: Essential documents like the Aircraft “Dent and Buckle” are used to locate and assess damage. This documentation helps in determining whether the damage is already known or if it’s a new issue.
Understanding Aircraft Structure: Proficiency in the aircraft’s structural components, including frames, stringers, and skin, is vital. This knowledge aids in precisely locating and evaluating the damage.
Analysing Damage with SRM: The Structural Repair Manual (SRM), a crucial document for repair procedures and standards, is consulted to analyse the damage. It provides guidelines on acceptable damage limits and repair methodologies.
Repair Assessment and Planning: The damage is categorized, and repair options are examined based on SRM guidelines. This step often requires navigating different sections of the SRM to understand specific repair requirements for the damaged area.
Compliance with SRM Guidelines: Assessing whether the damage is within the allowable limits set by the SRM is critical. If the damage exceeds these limits, alternative repair solutions, often requiring the aircraft manufacturer’s involvement, are considered.
Accurate Record-Keeping: Maintaining precise records of the damage and subsequent repairs is crucial for compliance with aviation standards and lease agreements.
End-of-Lease Considerations: Fulfilling all contractual obligations and specifications of the Approved Maintenance Program (AMP) during lease return is essential. Repairs can have ICA or instructions for continued airworthiness that should be reviewed.
This process requires a detailed and systematic approach, combining thorough inspections, precise documentation, adherence to structural repair guidelines, and efficient coordination.
Compliance with leasing agreements and aviation regulations is paramount throughout this process.
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