Happy National Aviation Day 2015

What are you waiting for? Get up and celebrate...it's National Aviation Day.

Our friends over at Wikipedia explain the meaning of  National Aviation Day:

[Tweet "Today is the day to celebrate #aviation! #NationalAviationDay"]

"The National Aviation Day (August 19) is a United States national observation that celebrates the development of aviation.

The holiday was established in 1939 by Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who issued a presidential proclamation which designated the anniversary of Orville Wright's birthday to be National Aviation Day (Mr. Wright, born in 1871, was still alive when the proclamation was first issued, and would live another nine years). The proclamation was codified (USC 36:I:A:1:118), and it allows the sitting US President to proclaim August 19 as National Aviation Day each year, if desired. Their proclamation may direct all federal buildings and installations to fly the US flag on that day, and may encourage citizens to observe the day with activities that promote interest in aviation."

You're Crazy Focusing All Your Attention On Repair TAT

You put a ton of effort in shortening your repair turn around times. You, just like me, are crazy.

Everything you do pushes the MRO for an early completion. You yell, scream, beg and maybe even threaten.

When you have this approach is your effort in the right place? Is your time and money being allocated to the right cause?

Yes and no, but before you start throwing CMM books at my head trust me, I get it. Repair TAT is important.

It's crucial yet I urge you to not focus all your attention here.

[Tweet "Focusing all your attention on repair TAT is crazy. #avgeek"]

A wasting your time story

We recently received thrust reversers. We began inspecting them and soon realized that these beauties had more modifications done to them than a Los Angeles actor.

They were fitted onto a modified aircraft. They're literally the only thrust reverse's of their kind on the planet.

When we were preparing for this project, they took 12 days to get to us off of an aircraft undergoing a routine c-check. We scheduled our truck to pick the units up but we got a call that the thrust reversers we’re improperly crated and they had to bump the pick-up. It took 2 additional days to get them into transit.

Once they got to our facility they were inspected and the nozzle was beyond physical repair. We could save these units but the price of repair would become double the standard repair rate. Remember, these are the only two of their kind.

A lot of work will have to be done to bring these two units back to airworthy condition. After the initial quote it took 14 days for approval…and yes while the c-check was still in progress. No loaners, no exchanges, no replacements, we had to repair these units.

We still had 21-30 days after approval to get these units done and when they were approved, it was advised that we get these done fast. Yet, it took 28 days to get the thrust reversers to approve the quote.

And that leads me to my next observations…

Focus your efforts on internal processes along with reducing aircraft component repair TAT

From this story you can see where some of the problem occurs. Now, the fault isn't pointed at anybody. Some decisions are hard to make and yes, sometimes it takes multiple approvals to get things done. I get that.

In this situation there's nothing the MRO could do to rush as a large chunk of time was spent in processing and outbound logistics activities.

By focusing some of your time and effort on internal processes you can cut your aircraft component repair time dramatically. In the story I shared, half the time could have been saved.

Start to focus more attention on areas that create the longest drag, meaning where does the component do most of it’s sitting and waiting.

Here are some areas to start on:

• Component removal
• Transport to stores
• Quality control
• Outbound processing
• Logistics
• Inbound processing
• Installation

There's plenty of areas to focus on but start with one. It'll be less stressful and less bureaucratic to make small changes over time.

Reducing your internal process will help reduce your component TAT and you’ll see a dramatic improvement in your overall rotable cycle times.

Are you experiencing long repair TATs? Fill out the form below as we're very confident we can help.

In The News: Revolutionary Aircraft 'Fly-Bag' Limits On Board Explosion and United Airlines Hands Out Million-Mile Bug Bounty

Aircraft 'bomb bag' limits on board explosion impact

A new system to resist terrorist bombs smuggled onto aircraft has been tested in dramatic experiments. A device called FlyBag is designed to absorb the shockwaves and shrapnel caused by explosions. Read more here.

Article By: David Shukman Science editor

[Tweet "Aircraft 'bomb bag' limits on board explosion impact"]

United Airlines Pays Man A Million Miles For Reporting Bug

TWO MONTHS AFTER United Airlines launched a bug-bounty program to reward researchers who report flaws in the company’s web site and apps, a researcher has received 1 million air miles in the first reward given. Check out story here.

Article By: Kim Zetter

What's the difference between AR, SV, RP and OH aircraft part conditions?

This is series 2 of our aircraft part conditions defined. In our last post we talked about FN, NE, and NS. From the feedback we got, this cleared up much confusion.

aircraft-parts

Now, were talking about unserviceable and airworthy conditions.

These conditions are looked at vastly different in various parts of the world.

Some people will never use a "SV" component while others prefer it. On both ends of the spectrum you have AR which is removed from the aircraft and deemed unserviceable and OH which is the closest thing you get to NE. We'll explain this a little more as we get into each condition.

When you think of these conditions you first must determine your primary objective, is it price or quality? Answering this will help guide you to the right condition for your maintenance goals.

[Tweet "With aircraft part conditions, first determine your primary objective #avgeek"]

As Removed (AR)

Skylink: As Removed Aircraft Part

This is a component that was pulled off an aircraft. Spoiler alert, that's where "as removed" comes from.

Sometimes she'll come with a reason for removal but often times in the part out world she'll come with nothing, just a removal tag and trace. It could be repairable or beyond economical repair (BER) for all you know.

These items must go to a certified MRO for functional test or repair.

Serviceable (SV)

Skylink: Serviceable Aircraft Part

This condition is intertwined with the repaired condition but there's minor differences depending on who you're talking to.

For a SV unit you'll know that the unit has been functional tested in accordance with OEM specifications and that it'll come with an airworthiness certification depending on what region you're in. Here as you know it's the FAA 8130.

Typically these units will not come with a teardown but only an airworthiness certification stating it passed functional test and it's able to be installed. This varies depending on MRO.

Repaired (RP)

Skylink: Repaired Aircraft Part

The repaired condition is a serviceable unit that requires a little more work.

With repaired units minor piece parts are used to bring the unit into serviceable condition to meet the functional test requirements. Gaskets, bolts, and small expendables are the normal piece parts used in repairs.

This condition will come with an airworthiness certification and teardown detailing what was done and what piece parts were used in the repair.

Skylink: overhauled aircraft part

Overhaul (OH)

This is the most work an aircraft rotable can go through.

Skylink: overhauled aircraft part

This is the "best" of all conditions and requires the most work. With an OH unit you'll be sure that your units will receive the 100% OH kit according to the CMM and any other components to bring it to such a condition. Overhauled units can also be painted and cosmetically pleasing so you know you're not getting a hunk of metal.

Warning: In some situations, MROs will tag certain components as OH despite the CMM not having proper OH specification and they should be deemed RP. It's primarily used for marketing to sell a higher priced unit based on it's classification. We use to see this a lot with pitot tubes and other accessories.

That's it. Those are your 4 rotable condition classifications.

Depending on your operation, make the choices that best fits your needs.

Are you in constant need for aircraft rotables? Fill out the form below and we'll be more than happy to help you out.

In The News: AF B777 Loses Landing Gear Panel Over Shanghai and $1.2M Penalties Against SkyWest

Boeing aware of metal 'fragility' issues before aircraft part plunged into Shanghai factory

Aerospace giant Boeing has ordered airlines around the world to address a "fragility" problem after a section of landing gear from one of its 777 passenger jets broke off shortly after take-off from Shanghai last week and plummeted 3,700 metres into a city suburb. Check out story here.

Article by: Danny Lee

Inspection Failings Could Cost SkyWest $1.2m

The FAA has proposed a total of $1.2m in civil penalties against SkyWest Airlines for failing to correctly inspect aircraft. The US regulator has proposed a penalty of $911, 000 alleging that Utab-based Skywest. More details here.

Article by: MRO Network

3 Incredibly Important Reliability Areas You Need To Know And Improve On

What is reliability? Since 1988 we’ve been playing the reliability game. The gamble of who to trust and what actions to take.

Today, much has changed. Everyone says and does the same boring thing, over promising and under delivering.

It’s common to run into reliability problems. It even gets to the point that some days you just want to run away.

Just ask our supply chain team.

Some days I have to peal them off the ceiling as they explode with frustration. I even have to peal myself off the ceiling some days.

Whether it’s logistics or even aircraft components, reliability is a game of chess. One wrong move and you lose time and money. With the right move you’re efficient. Time and money become your ally.

Many people talk about reliability, but unless you want to pay millions of dollars in consultancy fees, very little guides you in the right direction.

For now, let’s cover the basics…

Aircraft component reliability

The primary goal is to keep your components on wing for as long as possible. We’ll call this the dumbed down version of a much more complex issue.

At this point you’ll want to collect data and information about your aircraft components statistical analysis. This will give you valuable feedback on the data if irregularities developed in operation.

If you’re the type to geek out on this stuff, read this.

The key is to build a foundation for a component reliability program. Which ATA chapters do you have the most trouble with? Can you outsource solutions?

In order for you to answer these questions, having a firm understanding of your fleet and activity of components’ removals is very important.

[Tweet "Start slow and build your reliability program over time."]

Supplier reliability

It’s amazing how many people overlook supplier reliability.

I understand price is important, but it’s not the first or last decision. Your primary objective should be to work with people who can deliver and create the most value to you. 

When you look into your supplier reliability program answer these questions to help build your foundation:

• Who answers you back the quickest?
• Which company has an account manager that responds to you any day of the week, at any time?
• Who helps you resolve issues?
• Who provides solutions in addition to just selling you something?
• Where is the greatest value for every dollar you spend?
• Who solves problems without creating more problems?
• Who do you trust?
• How do their parts look when they’re delivered? Are they in good condition and packaged properly?

Answering these simple questions will guide you to building your supplier reliability program. You’ll avoid the people that over promise and under deliver.

Logistics reliability

If turn-around-times (TAT) keep you up at night then logistics is its angry step brother.

We live in a small world where we can get anything, anywhere in a short period of time and yet complications are still extremely common.

You may have experience with high import taxes, customs delays, airlines losing your packages, shipments being bumped and re-scheduled to a later date, damage parts, and the list goes on and on.

I have found the best logistics reliability program works with someone who is easy to talk to and helps you resolve problems. It’s really that simple.

I have worked with so many freight forwarders and 95% of them give me a massive headache. I feel one coming on now. We found 3 solid partners, one for routine freight, one for small parcel and one for AOG shipments and they are the only people we’ll use.

Build your logistics reliability program around your specific needs and the ease of communication should be very important to you.

Building a reliability program around aircraft maintenance and components, suppliers and logistics will help make your hectic aviation life easier.

Start slow and start now.

Do you have reliability issues? We would love to help you. Fill out the form below and we’ll tackle this together.

Account Manager Superstar

Thank you for taking the time to get to know us and allowing us to get to know you better. We're looking for the next person who will be a perfect fit to the Skylink team. Is it you? If you think so, read the open role below and let's get together.

Who is Skylink?

We're a dedicated team working together to bring efficient supply chain solutions to international airlines, MROs and military aircraft fleets. We deliver this by following our "Never Forget Your Wings" mantra. Every day we help fleets remain in the air and avoid the complexities of aircraft maintenance.

Skylink started its humble beginnings in 1988 from a defunct airline where founder Jim Anglin was an executive. He started by providing rotable sales to anybody that needed them. Today we’ve molded into a supply chain powerhouse. We're thrilled to work with dedicated airlines, MROs and military clients in over 30 countries. They look to us to streamline their supply so they can worry less about fleet maintenance and reduce the complexities felt by so many aircraft maintenance and purchasing professionals.

Where will I work?

You'll work at our Skylink hub in Sanford, FL. You'll have your own workspace and organize it with what makes you happy and inspires you. You will work daily with various Skylink teams, clients, and supply chain partners that span every country on this fine planet we call home.

How do things happen at Skylink?

Here at Skylink we have no central management and no hierarchy. We have dedicated teams with specific roles and coaches to guide the knowledge base. Teams are able to make their own decisions as long as they involve people affected in the decision and people who have knowledge in the decision topic. We are constantly innovating and everyone's ideas matter. Flexibility and improving is our middle name. We all work to maximize the value we create for customers and to create "WOW" experiences every step of the way.

What we're looking for

We're looking for an Account Manager who will take charge of customer accounts and focus on developing new accounts.  Our dedicated Account Managers work closely with customers to create "WOW" experiences at every touch point whether it be phone, email or any other medium.

You'll work closely with customer happiness engineers, content creators, account manager copilots, and supply chain champions to provide efficient supply chain solutions for customers and potential customers.

In order to provide proactive solutions you'll need to learn the solutions we provide and how to strategically quote client projects to make a positive impact on their operation. You’ll also have to be comfortable contacting people and providing value based solutions around their specific pains. Sales experience isn’t necessary but a relational approach is.

Being organized is essential and having a cross-cultural mentality is a must as we work with many people from all over the world. We develop relationships first and accounts second. Even in stressful times you’ll need to keep calm and focus on creating the “WOW.” You'll be tested to think outside of the box and avoid industry norms.

We strive for a balance of being a team that feels like a family. This means we share feedback regularly, support each other's self-improvement efforts, and take mistakes as opportunities to learn together. Using your mind to innovate is highly regarded.

If you can build deep relationships with customers and aren't afraid to contact potential prospects to resolve their pains you'll be a perfect person for this role.

What we value

We are deeply passionate about working as a team and going over and beyond for our customers. Creating "WOW" experiences, be willing to adapt and drive change, hustling and driving maximum efficiency, accepting problems and solving them, building a team-oriented approach, and having passion and integrity are the core values we live by. If you feel you embody each one of these then you'll be an AMAZING addition to our team.

Perks

Technology: You'll get hooked up with technology that'll make your life easier so you can do your best work.

Salary: Base salary + tiered commission for account managers. We've created a salary formula that takes experience and seniority into account and changes based on this formula.

Vacation: Take time for you and your family.

Health insurance: You'll have the option to take on our health insurance and every year we'll take on a higher percentage of the payment.

Work-space: You'll have your own work-space so you feel like a champion.

Be innovative: Take a portion of the time you work to be innovative, to come up with new ideas and to guide the implementation.

Be human: Feel free to be yourself, no absurd dress code and no policies telling you to be someone different.

Travel: If you need to visit customer and supply chain partners, travel will be taken care of.

Celebrate life: Every month we celebrate the birthday's and get together over lunch.

Healthy living: We strive for a healthy mind and body. Nate Anglin has focused 10 years of his life to bringing this concept to the business world. He'll help you navigate this often confusing topic for your life if you need guidance.

Still reading? We want to hear from you!

In The News: Blackbox of Missing Coast Guard Dornier Aircraft Found and ALTA Traffic Report

Major breakthrough in locating missing Dornier aircraft CG 791: Flight data recorder recovered

After an exhausting 33 day effort that was the largest ever maritime search mission launched by Indian agencies, the coast guard has managed to locate and pick up the flight data recorder of the missing Dornier aircraft CG 791 from the Bay of Bengal. More of the story here.

Article by: Manu Pubby

Latin American Air Carriers Report 3.8% Increase in Passengers

Latin American airlines reported a 3.8 percent increase in passengers for the month of May 2015 compared to May 2014. Capacity (available-seat-kilometers) was up 4.7 percent for the month, slower than revenue-passenger-kilometers (up 5.5 percent). More here.

Article by: Oliver Wyman

Sales Support Team

Thank you for taking the time to get to know us and allowing us to get to know you better. We’re looking for the next person who will be a perfect fit to the Skylink team. Is it you? If you think so, read the open role below and let’s get together.

Now Hiring- (4)

Who is Skylink?

We’re a dedicated team working together to bring efficient supply chain solutions to international airlines, MROs and military aircraft fleets. We deliver this by following our “Never Forget Your Wings” mantra. Every day we help fleets remain in the air and avoid the complexities of aircraft maintenance.

Skylink started its humble beginnings in 1988 from a defunct airline where founder Jim Anglin was an executive. He started by providing rotable sales to anybody that needed them. Today we’ve molded into a supply chain powerhouse. We’re thrilled to work with dedicated airlines, MROs and military clients in over 30 countries. They look to us to streamline their supply so they can worry less about fleet maintenance and reduce the complexities felt by so many aircraft maintenance and purchasing professionals.

Where will I work?

You’ll work at our Skylink hub in Sanford, FL. You’ll have your own workspace and organize it with what makes you happy and inspires you. You will work daily with various Skylink teams, clients, and supply chain partners that span every country on this fine planet we call home.

How do things happen at Skylink?

Here at Skylink we have no central management and no hierarchy. We have dedicated teams with specific roles and coaches to guide the knowledge base. Teams are able to make their own decisions as long as they involve people affected in the decision and people who have knowledge in the decision topic. We are constantly innovating and everyone’s ideas matter. Flexibility and improving is our middle name. We all work to maximize the value we create for customers and to create “WOW” experiences every step of the way.

What we're looking for

We’re looking for an addition to our Sales Support team.

In this role being organized with fantastic communication skills is crucial.

Your day to day will be to help the Account Management team to create “WOW” experiences of your customers. Organizing RFQ projects and talking with suppliers is the foundational tasks you’ll be involved in.

Paying attention to details (you’ll be entering data into our ERP system) being able to think outside of the box are winning traits for our sales support team.

As an individual we invite you to be creative and innovate. We look for people that have this unique characteristic to join our team and you very well may be that person.

We strive for a balance of being a team that feels like a family. This means we share feedback regularly, support each other’s self-improvement efforts, and take mistakes as opportunities to learn together. Using your mind to innovate is highly regarded.

If you’re not afraid to communicate, your smart, organized and can communicate well with your team, you’ll be a perfect fit.

What we value

We are deeply passionate about working as a team and going over and beyond for our customers. Creating “WOW” experiences, be willing to adapt and drive change, hustling and driving maximum efficiency, accepting problems and solving them, building a team-oriented approach, and having passion and integrity are the core values we live by. If you feel you embody each one of these then you’ll be an AMAZING addition to our team.

Perks

Technology: You’ll get hooked up with technology that’ll make your life easier so you can do your best work.

Salary: Base salary. We’ve created a salary formula that takes experience and seniority into account and changes based on this formula.

Vacation: Take time for you and your family.

Health insurance: You’ll have the option to take on our health insurance and every year we’ll take on a higher percentage of the payment.

Work-space: You’ll have your own work-space so you feel like a champion.

Be innovative: Take a portion of the time you work to be innovative, to come up with new ideas and to guide the implementation.

Be human: Feel free to be yourself, no absurd dress code and no policies telling you to be someone different.

Travel: If you need to visit customer and supply chain partners, travel will be taken care of.

Celebrate life: Every month we celebrate the birthday’s and get together over lunch.

Healthy living: We strive for a healthy mind and body. Nate Anglin has focused 10 years of his life to bringing this concept to the business world. He’ll help you navigate this often confusing topic for your life if you need guidance.

Still reading? We want to hear from you!

Click Here to Apply (1)

In The News: A Look at the Mysterious 'Black Box' and Worldwide Airline Market Forecast

The Mysterious Black Box

Whenever there is an accident involving an airliner, news reporters immediately begin talking about “the Black Box.” Many reporters have no idea what the Black Box is. What exactly is the “Black Box” and why is it so important? Check it out here.

Article by: Ken Hoke

World Air Passenger Demand Grows by 6.9% YOY May

ATA Air Passenger Analysis - May 2015 Worldwide passenger traffic, measured in revenue passenger kilometers, increased by 6.9 percent in May 2015 compared with May 2014, according to the International Air Transport Association. Check out full analysis here.

Article by: Oliver Wyman