Using Emerging Computer Database, Software, and Communications Technologies in Fleet Management

The goal of any aircraft fleet manager is to field, fully utilize, and retire a fleet without a single catastrophic structural failure and accomplish this at minimum cost. That goal is modified depending on the point of view of the specific manager. The Aircraft Structural Integrity Program (ASIP) manager emphasizes “without a single catastrophic structural failure”. The fleet and operations managers emphasize “minimum cost”. Managing the fleet from a structural integrity stand point often on the surface appears to be a costly program. Other fleet managers may not see the immediate benefits of effective structural integrity programs. In today=s environment of austere budgets we, as structural integrity engineers, must search for methods of protecting the structure of the fleet at minimum cost. This means making pinpoint decisions timely and effectively. These decisions involve repairs, modifications, maintenance actions, and inspections. Effective structural management can only take place from an “informed position”. Decisions must be made on the basis of complete and sound fleet information. These fleet data must be centrally located, secure, easily accessed, and complete. This paper focuses on using modern emerging computer, database, and communication technologies to enhance fleet data collection and efficient use of the data collected.