A Model for Reliability Analysis of Aircraft Systems and Structures

Aircraft maintenance programs are developed based on the manufacturer’s guidelines, and implementation of airworthiness directives issued by the regulator. Aircraft operators are mandated by the regulator to follow guidelines which in some cases do not correspond to the actual aircraft utilization thereby resulting in more frequent or less frequent maintenance activities which are costly. Aimed at efficient and cost-effective aircraft maintenance, this study presents a statistically simulated model for reliability analysis of aircraft systems and structures. Pilot and maintenance reports were used as initial data for the simulation. The model was tested for goodness-of-fit to prove its accuracy.