Many companies and individuals have been impacted by the economy in the last few years and have been using their aircraft less often.

It’s true that not using your aircraft may save money on fuel, staff time, and aircraft maintenance.  But there are some costs, like hangar space and property taxes that need to be paid regardless of how much you use (or don’t use) your aircraft.

In addition, the more sophisticated (high tech) your aircraft, the more components there are that tend to “break” sitting on the ramp!

Items such as:

  • Avionics
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Fuel systems
  • Tires and struts
  • Cabin pressurization valves and systems
  • Fuel tank vents
  • Brake pads & calipers
  • FOD in air inlets
  • Body corrosion
  • Electrical connectors

Are all affected by heat, cold, moisture, wind, dirt, insects, birds and animals.

Airplanes also lose value over time, whether they are used or not, and hangared aircraft have their own set of expenses and needs – such as the Low Utilization Inspection (LUI) required for Pratt & Whitney engines outlined below.

If you have an aircraft that you’re using less often, contact SSC for ways to make aircraft ownership a more rewarding experience. Some options we might suggest include the following:

  • A low utilization maintenance management plan could save you money.
  • Making the aircraft available for charter use could provide the opportunity for your aircraft to “earn its keep” and offset the cost of ownership.
  • We could help you sell an aircraft you’re not using, or purchase a different aircraft that meets your current needs and budget more efficiently.

We make a point of providing a special service plan for each aircraft that we manage, maintain, repair and overhaul,  buy or sell that meets the specific objectives of our clients.

Low Utilization Inspection (LUI)
Pratt & Whitney has released Service Information Letter PW500-027 to inform operators of PW500 series engines installed on (550′s / 560 / 560XL) of the upcoming changes to Chapter 5- 20 of the engine Maintenance Manual. The Low Utilization Inspection (LUI) is for engines that have not reach their TBO hours, or have not been disassembled within the past ten (10) years. These engines are now subject to the requirements outlined in the Pratt & Whitney Maintenance Manual (LUI) inspection program.The (LUI) requirements published in the Engine Maintenance Manual require operators to perform an off-wing inspection and disassembly of their engine at a designated overhaul assembly after ten years of service.The new on-wing LUI includes a visual inspection for corrosion of structural cases and ducts, an inspection of the electrical connectors, and oil quality checks. a boroscope inspection of the compressor, diffuser, combustor and turbine. An engine performance run is also recommended. If all of these inspections are satisfactory, continued operation of the engine can continue for a period of up to 24 months before repeating the inspection.