In the context of emerging technology developed for advanced air mobility
concept, its maintenance protocols are not yet mature and existing aviation
maintenance systems may not support electric-vertical take-off and landing
(e-VTOL) needs. Thus, the operation of e-VTOL aircraft during its deployment
stage necessitates the need for qualitative maintenance support. The main
purpose of this study is to develop the basic structural principles of the
projected new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organization for e-VTOL
air vehicles, which will support airworthiness through comprehensive maintenance
approaches. Thus, the operation of e-VTOL aircraft during its deployment stage
necessitates the need for qualitative maintenance support. The importance of the
study is to offer standard procedures based on management and maintenance
strategies, application of predictive and prescriptive maintenance tools, which
pose a significant contribution to ensuring safety, reliability, and
cost-effectiveness in e-VTOL operations. The methodology based on leveraging
modern management theory in combination with maintenance strategy ensures
reaching a goal, creating an effective MRO organization. The findings of the
analysis, conducted on the current study, reveal the suitability of the
traditional aircraft maintenance approach for e-VTOL air vehicle maintenance
processes that can support multi-model aircraft with different design
configurations and architectures. To facilitate comprehensive engagement among
all relevant stakeholders, the result of the analysis assumes the establishment
of an effective aircraft maintenance ecosystem. Effective agreement between
e-VTOL operators and MRO providers will contribute to ensuring appropriateness
with evolving aircraft architectures in compliance with regulatory standards.
This study fills a research gap in the literature relating to aircraft
maintenance by proposing a digitally integrated approach and,
regulation-compliant framework tailored for e-VTOL aircraft. The suggested
multi-strategy maintenance model incorporates predictive analytics, modular
diagnostics, and contingency planning tailored for e-VTOL operations,
synergizing with AI implementation distinguishes it with its novelty implemented
in the modern aviation sector.
