Lean Practices in Aircraft Maintenance

Abstract

This research is extensively carriedout on the implementation of lean practices in an aircraft maintenance organisation with a focus on reducing waste during maintenance operation. The key lean concept is to minimize work in progress, so quickly forcing any production problems into the open. Production is with held incase any problems if found are not solved immediately. Problems existing in the production of goods are to be permanently corrected for high level of productivity with good quality. The main objective is to evolve and test several strategies to eliminate non-value added activities in the maintenance operation. Non-value added activities are considered as waste. In this research, a systematic approach is further suggested for implementation of lean principles. This paper also describes an application of root cause failure analysis (RCFA), Reliability Centered Maintenance, Failure mode and effect analysis and maintenance procedure effectiveness analysis. Finally we conclude with a discussion that many companies following these lean practices have reaped the benefits of increased customer and employee satisfaction, shorter lead times, reduced inventories, fewer defects, and lower operating costs.