Blog posts tagged in Aircraft

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the typical terms and abbreviations compliant with ICAO Document 9640 and SAE AS6285E

Abbreviations and Terms

Active frost: Condition when frost is forming. Active frost occurs when

(1) the aircraft surface temperature is at or below the frost point, or

(2) there is water in liquid form (e.g., dew) on the aircraft surface and the surface falls to/or below 0 °C (frozen dew).

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers detailed exterior cleaning procedures for aircraft 

Introduction - The following elements have been identified as essential in achieving the best outcome related to exterior cleaning.

Preparation:

>> Safety Checks: Before initiating the cleaning process, conduct a thorough inspection to ensure all panels, covers, and access points are securely fastened.

>> Sealing: Ensure all openings, including vents and seams, are sealed to prevent the ingress of cleaning solutions or water which could damage internal components.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the use of FMEA as part of the certification process.

Introduction

Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) is a systematic, proactive method for evaluating a process or a system to identify where and how it might fail and to assess the relative impact of different failures in order to identify parts of the process that are most in need of change.

FMEA typically involves cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among different stakeholders, leading to a more comprehensive analysis.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers communication best practice to comply with (ARP) 6257A

Introduction

(ARP) 6257A provides standardized communication phraseology for aircraft ground deicing/anti-icing operations, ensuring clear and concise communication between flightcrew and groundcrew. This practice plays a crucial role in the safety of deicing programs and aims to address historical issues of differing communication scripts at multiple airport locations, which have led to unsafe situations. It is an essential document for ensuring safety and efficiency in these operations, helping to prevent miscommunication and its potentially dangerous consequences.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the best practices related to return to service of components recovered from Incidents / Accidents. Refer to AMC2 145.A.50(d) Certification of maintenance ED Decision 2020/002/R

Introduction

The return to service of aircraft items from accidents or incidents is a highly specialized and regulated process. Ensuring compliance with EASA Part 145 and Part 21 is essential for the safety and airworthiness of the aircraft. Regular updates in technical knowledge, continuous training, and strict adherence to best practices and regulatory requirements are key to successfully managing this challenging task.

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 ICAO Abbreviations and Terms Applicable to Aircraft deicing & anti-icing

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the typical terms and abbreviations compliant with ICAO Document 9640 and SAE AS6285E

Abbreviations and Terms

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers Aircraft Deicing best practices compliant with Aerospace Standard AS6285 REV.E

Strict adherence to these guidelines is crucial for safe aircraft operations.

>> All personnel involved in deicing and anti-icing must be familiar with these procedures and exercise caution during application and post-treatment inspections.

>> Safety and efficiency in operations are the primary objectives of these practices.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the challenges related to the following damage of composite material

>> Barely Visible Damage (BVD)
>> and Externally Non-Visible Damage (NVD).

Introduction

Composite materials typically do not don’t show damage in the same way metals do. Additionally, composites are susceptible to hidden cracks and defects that may occur during manufacturing or service.

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Sofema Online (SOL) considers best practices and procedures related to Aircraft Lavatory Servicing.

Introduction

Aircraft toilet servicing is a vital aspect of aircraft maintenance. Ensuring that the vacuum toilet system operates flawlessly is essential for the well-being and comfort of passengers as well as health and sanitation.

By adhering to these health and safety standards, airlines and maintenance providers can ensure the well-being of their employees, passengers, and the environment

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Sofema Online (SOL)  reviews best practices for a routine Aircraft Cabin Cleaning Operation – Consider the Following Example Work Instruction

Introduction & Safety Precautions

  • Ensure an organized approach to cleaning. Utilize the right tools, technology, and cleaning solutions for optimal results.
  • Always wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and masks.
  • Ensure the aircraft is properly ventilated during cleaning.
  • Store cleaning chemicals in a safe location, away from children and pets.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for all cleaning equipment and solutions.
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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the role of CPCP ADs and the responsibility for updating the Aircraft Maintenance Program (AMP)

Introduction

Each CPCP, whether originally mandated by AD or later incorporated into the MPD for an aircraft, includes certain definitions to lay the groundwork and baselines for the programs.

Corrosion is a progressive condition and generally becomes more serious as it moves deeper into the grain of the affected metal. Therefore, different levels of corrosion are defined: Level 1 being the least serious, Level 2 being increasingly problematic, and Level 3 being the highest. However, these definitions were never standardized, although they are largely well-understood by CAAs, manufacturers, and the industry.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com reviews the development of CPCP from Standalone to incorporation within the MRB process

Introduction “Corrosion Prevention and Control Programme” (CPCP)

This means a document reflecting a systematic approach to prevent and control corrosion in an aeroplane’s primary structure, consisting of basic corrosion tasks, including inspections, areas subject to those tasks, defined corrosion levels and compliance times (implementation thresholds and repeat intervals).

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers best practices and health and safety requirements to ensure the correct management of potable water for use in aircraft

Introduction to Aircraft Portable Water

Maintaining the quality of potable water on aircraft requires regular testing, vigilant monitoring, and adherence to best practices. Proper treatment and handling procedures, combined with a robust testing regimen, can ensure that passengers and crew have access to safe drinking water during their flights.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com looks at a technique for data analysis

Analytical Techniques to Support MCC Recurrent Defect Analysis - Introduction

>> Pareto analysis is premised on the idea that 80% of a project's benefit can be achieved by doing 20% of the work- or, conversely, 80% of problems can be traced to 20% of the causes.
>> Pareto analysis is a powerful quality and decision-making tool. In the most general sense, it is a technique for getting the necessary facts needed for setting priorities.

Steps of Pareto Analysis

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the reporting process for advising the Federal Aviation Administration regarding the existence of Unairworthy Conditions related to Aircraft, Engines, Propellers or Components thereof

Introduction – Ref FAA 45.63 Reports of Defects or Unairworthy Conditions.

Each certificated domestic repair station shall report to the Administrator within 72 hours after it discovers any serious defect in, or other recurring unairworthy condition of, an aircraft, powerplant, or propeller, or any component of any of them.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the potential exposure related to HIRF Interference.

Introduction

On April 15, 1990, an Airship Industries Airship-600 traversed the beam of a highly directional RF broadcast from a Voice of America antenna and suffered a complete loss of power in both engines that resulted in a collision with trees and terrain during a forced landing in North Carolina. The National Transportation Safety Board stated in its investigation of the accident that the lack of HIRF certification standards for airships was a factor in the accident.

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Sofema Online (SOL) considers the relationship between Technical and Safety Requirements when designing aircraft system modifications.

Introduction

Regulations by their nature are prescriptive conversely when we consider the potential exposure by referencing safety cases as part of the assessment process, we are substantially dealing with what could be considered a subjective approach.

Safety Analysis should add value rather than be simply a “Desktop” exercise.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com takes a deep dive into the Evolution of Flight Deck Ergonomics and considers its Impact on the Aircraft Certification Process.

Introduction

Following World War II, aircraft became more complex, leading to a more crowded and confusing cockpit. The development of jet aircraft in the post-war era brought about faster and more complex machines, requiring further changes in cockpit design.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the current Cabin Divider and Soft Furnishing landscape within Commercial Aircraft.

Soft furnishings must embrace flame-retardant fabrics throughout the cabin, including seat covers, carpets, curtains, and wall coverings.

>> Before the issue of any certification, the testing must comply with FAR/CS 25.853 regulation,
>> Curtain fabric is required to be wear-resistant, stain-resistant, non-toxic, and lightweight.

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Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers EASA regulatory requirements related to Aircraft Emergency Lighting Systems.

Introduction - CS 25.812 Emergency Lighting

(a) An emergency lighting system, independent of the main lighting system, must be installed.

>> Sources of general cabin illumination may be common
>> Independent Power Supply for E/Light System
>> Shall include

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