The reason we have a “Reliability Program” is to provide oversight of the maintenance processes thereby providing a degree of measure by which we can demonstrate that the maintenance we are performing is effective. From a regulatory point of view we are driven to establish a reliability program when the aircraft maintenance program is based upon MSG-3 logic; or if the program includes condition-monitored components. In addition we are required to have a reliability program if the aircraft maintenance program does not contain overhaul time periods for all significant systems and components finally we also require such a reliability program when specified by the Manufacturer’s maintenance planning document (MPD) or Maintenance Review Board Report (MRBR).
In addition to demonstrating that the maintenance program tasks are effective we are able to show the periodicity is adequate. Essential elements of a Reliability Program include the collection of data methods and techniques used for the analysis, corrective action follow up to ensure that all issues arising are addressed.
We need to maintain a performance standard which leads to the development of “Alert Levels”.
Finally we need a means of displaying the information so that we are able to present to the Regulatory authorities.
What the reliability program shows is that the maintenance we are performing is effective. However what the reliability program will not show is if we are doing too much maintenance (this needs to be addressed I different ways). We can however utilize the reliability program to drive either escalation or deletion of a maintenance task, as well as the de-escalation or addition of a maintenance task.
When looking at the purpose of the reliability program we should consider that there is potentially a vast source of information available within the reliability department which we can use to both drive savings and to develop business optimizing programs. Reliability Programs typically look at 3 elements – aircraft, systems & components – and whist the entire reliability program may be out sourced to a vendor or other service provider, the ownership of the reliability program sits firmly with the operators CAMO who must be able to demonstrate clear management and continuous oversight of the data.
There are a number of Measures of Reliability together with associated processes which are typically found within our aviation environment.
Working with Alert levels and the data which is available requires a significant degree of engineering judgment which is supported by the detailed management of competencies within a reliability framework.
The need for Reliability and the effective interpretation of this data is used directly to support the management of Continuing Airworthiness.
Sofema Aviation Services offers a 2 day training which covers in detail all subjects within the Developing an Effective Aircraft Reliability Program training course either as an open or in company training.
Organisations have an opportunity to optimize the reliability program with regulatory approval of maintenance programme amendment being influenced by using reliability data.
For details please see www.sassofia.com or email office@sassofia.com
Tags:
Aircraft Reliability Program, Alert Levels, CAMO, Regulatory
