Optimization of Aero Gas Turbine Maintenance Using Advanced Simulation and Diagnostic Methods

Abstract

Engine maintenance costs are a major contributor to the direct operating costs of aircraft. Therefore, the minimization of engine maintenance costs per flighthour is a key aspect for airlines to operate successfully under challenging market conditions. Minimization can be achieved by increasing the onwing time or by reducing the shopvisit costs. Combining both provides optimum results and can only be achieved by thorough understanding of the engine. In the past, maintenance optimization was mainly an experiencebased process. In this work, a novel analytical approach is presented to optimize the maintenance of commercial turbofan engines. A real engine fleet of more than 100 longhaul engines is used to demonstrate the application. The combination of advanced diagnostic and simulation methods with classical hardwarebased failure analysis enables linking of overall engine performance with detailed hardware condition and, thus, an effective optimization of the overall maintenance process.