Proposed New Approaches to the Maintenance of the Boeing Supersonic Transport

The overall maintenance requirement for the Boeing Supersonic Transport is no different than that of any other airplane: To provide maximum airplane availability at minimum cost without compromise to safety. However, allowing for size, speed, and sophistication exceeding that of current airplanes, it must be apparent that traditional maintenance methods alone will not suffice with the SST. New approaches have to be developed if new standards of productivity are to be realized. The approaches described here are a start. Successful completion -- and hence successful operation -- will depend on the continuing efforts of manufacturer, suppliers, airlines and FAA.