The Individual Aircraft Tracking Program (IATP) for the FAA Flight Inspection Aircraft Fleet - An Examination of the Translation of Measured Flight Parameters to Potential Crack Growth at Critical Areas to the Projection of Inspection/Maintenance Scheduling

Raytheon E-Systems has developed and implemented an Individual Aircraft Tracking Program (IATP) that forms one element of a comprehensive Aircraft Structural Integrity Program (ASIP). This program aims to ensure the long-term structural integrity and continued airworthiness of a broad portion of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Inspection Fleet of aircraft. Specifically, six Learjet Model 60 and three Canadair Challenger CL601-3R aircraft are modified by Raytheon E-Systems to perform the Flight Inspection role for the FAA. Flight Inspection mission profiles are characterized by extensive operation below 2000 feet MSL (mean sea level). This low level, structurally harsh environment contrasts dramatically with typical corporate jet operational environments. The Flight Inspection usage has a marked impact on the loading spectrum experienced by the aircraft structure due to the extensive operation in the low-level gust environment, and, as a result, a drastic impact on the service life of the aircraft.