CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS WHITE PAPERS: IFS • DA AVIATION • ICF
MARCH-APRIL 2021 • V10.1
After the pandemic comes the recovery Tools to help the return to service
Digital processes Tech-based inventory Leveraging value at Sabena Technics management from IT systems The project and the values gained
Addressing the spares challenge with the right tools
NEWS AND TECHNOLOGY UPDATES • MRO SOFTWARE DIRECTORY
Understanding IT-enabled processes
Remote assistance for Aviation MRO Collaborate, diagnose and solve maintenance issues with remote technicians and experts in real-time. IFS remote assistance: read about it ifs.biz/remotemro
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO: WELCOME
COMMENT Aircraft IT MRO: COVID has been a huge challenge; post-COVID will be even more demanding of long-term change
AIRCRAFT IT MRO Publisher/Editor Ed Haskey E-mail: ed.haskey@aircraftit.com Telephone: +44 1273 454 235 Website: www.aircraftIT.com Chief Operating Officer Scott Leslie E-mail: scott.leslie@aircraftit.com Copy Editor/Contributor John Hancock E-mail: john@aircraftit.com Magazine Production Dean Cook E-mail: deancook@magazineproduction.com AircraftIT MRO is published bi-monthly and is an affiliate of Aircraft Commerce and part of the AviationNextGen Ltd group. The entire contents within this publication © Copyright 2021 AviationNextGen Ltd an independent publication and not affiliated with any of the IT vendors or suppliers. Content may not be reproduced without the strict written agreement of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of their companies or of the publisher. The publisher does not guarantee the source, originality, accuracy, completeness or reliability of any statement, information, data, finding, interpretation, advice, opinion, or view presented.
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ell, nobody’s going to forget the past twelve months at any time soon; and it’s not over yet, although signs on the horizon are encouraging. But, perhaps, the most encouraging thing is that airlines, operators and MRO/M&E businesses are mostly still here and, again mostly, planning for their post-COVID future. There are, of course, significant costs that will have to be recouped. Also, new work processes and practices will need to be embedded into the sector. Those new processes will not come cheap either in themselves or in the accelerated manner of their adoption driven by the pandemic. The additional strain on businesses having to bring forward not just plans but actual implementations will be significant. Some cost solutions have been relatively simple with airlines retiring older fleets and re-arranging their remaining aircraft to better match the anticipated reduced demand in the next few years. This will save on fuel and maintenance costs and, of course, newer aircraft will be able to support the maintenance process with the huge quantities of data that they generate. But none of that will be possible without powerful software solutions to handle the data, use it and support safe processes fit for the post-COVID world. Fortunately, the sector has access to an array of software developers and vendors who can offer all of the capabilities needed with a choice of several providers to choose from. Refreshingly, many businesses have taken the enforced conditions and future requirements as an opportunity bring forward changes that might
otherwise have been scheduled two or three years hence. In this, the development of remote, off-site implementation and training methods will prove of great value. As always, Aircraft IT MRO offers a relevant set of articles that will help readers to not only see what developments are available but also how one MRO has already started to implement them. The article, from IFS, on returning aircraft to service addresses the pressing questions now on the top of most agendas plus some ideas on using the opportunity to futureproof the business. We have an excellent article on Inventory Technical Management from DA Aviation, about using the latest available technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Smart Automation. Allan Bachan’s article (the first of three parts) on IT systems adoption considers what capability might already be in the software currently in your business and how to use an understanding of where that fits into your current workflows to optimize processes and future technology adoption. Finally, we have an article in which readers will see how Sabena Technics, a major independent MRO/M&E business, has adopted the latest technology to better manage an already complex operation in what are sure to be demanding times. All of this, with our regular round-up of news and technology developments and the comprehensive ‘MRO Software Directory’. Aircraft IT MRO: how technology will support the post-pandemic world of work. Ed Haskey
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 3
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CONTENTS 06 Latest News and Technology updates Keeping up with what is happening in a complex and evolving business world is a challenge. At Aircraft IT MRO or here in the Aircraft IT MRO e-journal the latest developments are sorted and ready to read.
30 WHITE PAPER: Smart ideas to improve inventory management Daniel Stromski, Managing Director, DA Aviation New opportunities address Inventory Technical Management with advanced technologies such as AI, ML and Smart Automation: the tools and data to ensure the right part is at the right place, in the right time and at the right price.
40 WHITE PAPER: The runway to recovery Graham Grose, Vice President and Industry Director, IFS While COVID has put huge pressures on commercial aviation, now is the time to think about a return to service. That, along with long-term changes resulting from the pandemic, will require the adoption of tools that can future proof the business.
44 WHITE PAPER IT systems adoption Part 1 Allan Bachan, VP, Managing Director, MRO Operations, ICF Airlines and MROs have taken advantage of the COVID break to analyze the performance of maintenance and engineering processes. How can they capitalize on that and what models can they use to optimize processes and technology adoption? A series of three articles.
50 CASE STUDY: Realizing the gains from digital processes at Sabena Technics François Doré, Deputy Director General Strategy and Innovation, Sabena Technics In 2018, Sabena Technics launched a digitization program specifically in Major Airframe activities. With the first A330 fully digital & paperless C-Check performed successfully, here are the value creations, the obstacles, successes and practical experiences from this project.
60 MRO Software directory A detailed look at the world’s leading MRO IT systems.
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Three new vendors join the Aircraft IT MRO Vendor Panel
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AMOS. AGAIN.
“ We are convinced that AMOS is the perfect match for DRF Luftrettung. The fact that the very first AMOS customer was also an air rescue company - who still relies on AMOS after almost 30 years – reflects the versatility of AMOS to cater for the unique needs of rotary wing as well as fixed wing aircraft.” says CEO Swiss AviationSoftware Ltd
DRF Luftrettung goes for AMOS, the world-class M&E software solution. DRF Luftrettung, one of Europe’s major air rescue companies providing rapid assistance to emergency patients, joins the fastgrowing AMOS helicopter user-group. AMOS complies with the special requirements of helicopter maintenance by providing dedicated functions only relevant for helicopters, such as vibration monitoring, engineering requirements, dynamic counter options to optimise maintenance control and performance, mission logic or in-depth effectivity rule logic to track fleet uniformity or customer preference. SWISS-AS.COM
At Aircraft IT we pride ourselves in the fact that our copy is all from the people best qualified to write and comment, users (airlines, operators and MROs) and solution vendors. Our vendor partners are a very important part of what makes the eJournal relevant and informative. So, it is with particular pleasure that we welcome three new members to the Aircraft IT Vendor Panel. Dallas, Texas based Jetraxx offers solutions including Asset Management and MRO Management with capabilities in Engine Asset Management, Digital Lease Return, Lease Return Project Management, Digital MRO and Document Management/Repository. Jetraxx products offer, for both MROs and Engine lessors, asset management solutions that simplify compliance, standardize data, and streamline processes, with up-to-the-minute views into your entire portfolio anytime, anywhere. From Finland comes QOCO Systems with solutions including MROTools.io, EngineData.io and OpsMetrics.io offering capabilities in Intelligent maintenance, Data management and integrations, Lean operations, Process consulting and SaaS (Software as a Service) solutions. QOCO solutions enable customers to achieve more by doing less and to realise time-savings in labour-intensive tasks. They also bring visibility to customers’ operations to support decision-making based on real-time information. Our final addition to the Vendor Panel is KeepFlying whose platform will power Lessors, Financiers, Operators and Legal Representatives to collaborate and simulate Asset Lifecycle Values and Risks. More of them in the next issue. Welcoming the new vendors to the Panel, Scott Leslie, CEO of Aircraft IT stated, “It is so encouraging that this MRO IT market continues to produce new and innovative developers and vendors with ever more inventive ideas for making the complex processes of MRO, engineering and lease/asset management more efficient, more predictive, better managed and safer all round. I am very pleased that we’ll be including these three new sources of expertise on the website and in the eJournals.”
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OVERLAND installs AD SOFTWARE — a success story amidst the COVID crisis Overland is a major domestic operator in West Africa with a fleet of ATRs and Beechcraft. In 2019 the airline initiated the search for an MRO/CAMO IT solution. Being the leading solution in Africa and an ATR expert, AD SOFTWARE quickly emerged as the best option. By the end of the year Overland had officially selected AD SOFTWARE as was announced in late November 2020. In 20 years, OVERLAND AIRWAYS has developed a reputation for professionalism, safety and expertise in the region under the leadership of CEO and founder, Capt. Edward Boyo. The search for an IT solution was thorough and detailed, led by experts across the whole organization. When it was time to start the implementation both parties had the expertise required for a successful launch: AD SOFTWARE is an ATR expert (being the solution chosen by the OEM to support their MRO and CAMO services) and has a positive track record in Africa. The implementation plan was made obsolete by the COVID crisis. In fact, the borders closed while AD SOFTWARE’s team was in Lagos. Everything came to a halt overnight and the team returned to Europe. The project was at risk of being stopped indefinitely, had AD SOFTWARE not have a contingency plan ready.
In less than 48 hours AD SOFTWARE turned into a ‘homeoffice’ company, maintaining the same productivity as before the crisis. The implementation at Overland resumed remotely and was completed by the end of the summer. According to Capt. Edward Boyo; “AD SOFTWARE is the right choice for OVERLAND, it is a sophisticated and well supported solution that reflects the quality and professionalism of our organization. We anticipate increased efficiency and higher aircraft availability as a result of this partnership.” AD SOFTWARE’s CEO, Frederic Ulrich is also positive about the project: “OVERLAND is a model of organization, expertise and professionalism. The work ethic of OVERLAND management is second to none and we couldn’t be prouder to support them.” AD SOFTWARE: AD SOFTWARE is a company based in France and major supplier of MRO software solutions for helicopter and fixed wing operators. In its 20 years of existence, it has steadily increased its user base to over 60 airlines by providing a scalable and cost-efficient solution that is adapted to the complex needs of operators while remaining userfriendly. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website
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New Module — skybook Form Builder 2020 was a busy year for the team at Bytron HQ. Despite a global pandemic, the team has grown, their client list has increased and most importantly, they have released a series of enhancements to skybook in order to support clients during this very challenging time. As the year drew to a close the pace of development was far from slowing down though as the company prepared, in early December 2021, to launch their all new Form Builder module, by far the most flexible module in the skybook range to date. Form Builder has been engineered to help skybook operators respond to the ever-evolving world of aviation by
giving them the ability to create their own fully digital forms in house with ease in a matter of minutes, without the need for external assistance from the Bytron Team. Thanks to its highly intuitive user interface, users can set
the forms layout, add input boxes, decide whereabouts in skybook the form will be available to users and even which additional skybook functionality can be utilised, such as using the tablets camera to snap a
picture for inclusion in the form. Once ready for use, the forms can be fully previewed before being enabled within the selected skybook module — all of which takes place without the need for any input from the Bytron team. Most importantly, the data captured can be extracted from the forms and exported post flight directly to other departments or operations systems, removing the need for onward inputting and reducing the potential for human error. skybook Form Builder empowers operators by giving them the chance to add yet more value to existing skybook modules, like the EFB for example, by being able to create the
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additional forms that will help to push the digital first approach to all new levels. The forms created could be as simple as a leave request or as complicated as Air Safety Reports, Mandatory Occurrence Reports and Dent and Buckle, it’s up to users what information they want to gather. Available for implementation early in 2021, Form Builder is part of the build-up to the eagerly anticipated eTech Loglaunch which will help operators to achieve full digital transformation by closing the loop post flight between operations and dispatch, flight deck and maintenance teams. skybook is already proven to outperform rival products by being more flexible and responsive, more
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Israir Airlines live with AMOS
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In mid-January 2021, it was announced that, in the last weeks of 2020, the Israeli airline Israir went live with AMOS to take over their day-to-day maintenance transactions from their legacy system. The implementation had originally started in October 2019, but in the middle of the workshops, during the definition phase, the project had to be put on hold due to the Corona Crisis. The project teams from Swiss-AS and Israir decided to resume the implementation in October 2020 with a limited scope in order to meet the goal of using AMOS operationally by the end of 2020. The new schedule was quite challenging but was also an opportunity to discover innovative and creative ways to manage projects off-site in a timely manner. Israir Airlines is an Israeli Tour Operator and Airline headquartered in Tel Aviv and operates scheduled, charter and cargo flights to various destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The carrier operates a fleet of 7 aircraft (A320 and ATR 72).
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Leonardo Helicopters selects Vistair to implement safety management solution Leonardo, a global leader in the aerospace, defense, and security sector, announced in mid-December 2020 that it has selected Vistair to provide SafetyNet™ as its safety management solution
Vistair Systems, a leading provider of aviation Document and Safety Management Solutions, was pleased to announce a collaboration with Leonardo’s UK-based helicopter business, providing a single enterprise-wide view of safety to proactively identify and address key safety issues and risks. Leonardo is focused on safety, making significant investments to enhance its safety culture with programs such as Safety Protects. Vistair’s SafetyNet will enable Leonardo to collate accurate, consistent, 2021Mar_Aircraft IT eJournal_m1.pdf
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and reliable occurrence data, across the organization, enhanced by excellence in mobility and usability. Comprehensive analytics and dashboards will deliver trend analysis and statistics for evidencebased decision making, to proactively target safety and risk issues. ‘‘We are proud to have been selected by Leonardo, who really understand the importance of having modern, data-driven technology to achieve a proactive safety culture and world-class safety
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performance.” said Dominic Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer at Vistair “We are very excited to be working with Vistair, who are aviation specialists. Their SafetyNet solution, which has an outstanding reputation, will play a fundamental role in how we identify our top risks and analyze data throughout the organization, up to Board level.” added Richard Folkes, Head of Aviation Safety at Leonardo Helicopters (UK) About Leonardo: Leonardo, a global hightechnology company, is among the top ten world players in Aerospace, Defense and Security and Italy’s main industrial company. Organised into five business divisions, Leonardo has a significant industrial presence in Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland and the USA, where it also operates through
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subsidiaries such as Leonardo DRS (defense electronics), and joint ventures and partnerships: ATR, MBDA, Telespazio, Thales Alenia Space and Avio. Leonardo competes in the most important international markets by leveraging its areas of technological and product leadership (Helicopters, Aircraft, Aerostructures, Electronics, Cyber Security and Space). Listed on the Milan Stock Exchange (LDO), in 2019 Leonardo recorded consolidated revenues of €13.8 billion and invested €1.5 billion in Research and
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Development. The Group has been part of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) since 2010 and is named as sustainability global leader in the Aerospace & Defence sector for the second year in a row of DJSI in 2020. About Vistair: Established in 2001, Vistair is one of the world’s leading suppliers of aviation management software. Their Document Management and Safety Management solutions are used by over 40 clients across the world. Clients include British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Iberia, MAA, Norwegian, Qantas and Ryanair.
Springer Aerospace is MRO launch customer for IQSMS ASQS was delighted to announce in early January 2021 that Springer Aerospace has successfully implemented three IQSMS modules, being the first MRO in North America to deploy the intuitive and integrated quality and safety management solution. Based in Echo Bay, Ontario, Springer Aerospace provides a wide range of services including complete overhauls, heavy maintenance, regular inspections, interiors, paint, avionics, and modifications. Formed from the merger of two pioneer aviation companies (Springer Aerospace Ltd. and Skyservices Ltd.) in the 1990s, Springer Aerospace offers a long-standing expertise in the field of aviation maintenance and overhaul and grew to one of the largest MRO facilities in Canada. “We are more than excited that one of Canada’s oldest aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) companies selected IQSMS to support its daily business. Since Canada is the destination of choice for our new ASQS subsidiary, which will open by the end of 2020, we are delighted to have won Springer Aerospace as launch customer in this region. With Springer’s new 28,000 sq ft hangar facility, the ASQS team is looking forward to be a part of the added scope and capabilities the company has to offer. We look forward to being on site soon to work more closely with our new customer and to support Springer Aerospace in the optimization of its safety and quality processes”, commented Günther Schindl, CEO at ASQS, noted.
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eTT Aviation acquires the aviation software assets of Eagle Cap Software In mid-December 2020, eTT Aviation announced that it had purchased the software assets of Eagle Cap Software. As part of the transaction, eTT will take over all development and marketing of the Eagle Cap flight planning and aviation charting software products. The first priority is to quickly integrate the flight planning and dispatch management software into the SkedFlex suite. Two undisclosed airlines have committed to being the launch customers for the newly integrated capabilities. “The quality of products that the Eagle Cap team has created is well known in the industry, and we look forward to their help as we continue disrupting the airline flight operations world.” said eTT Aviation President Tom LaJoie. “We are thrilled to be working with eTT to be able to offer our nextgeneration flight planning and dispatch system, aviation charting, and data
distribution products to eTT’s customers.” added Eagle Cap President Tom Perkowski. eTT has acquired the following Eagle Cap products in the purchase: • Flight Planning & Dispatch Management System, consisting of a flight planning engine and a configurable dispatch client application with a companion mobile application; • Aviation Charting Service (ACS), a vector-based aeronautical mapping toolkit for iOS, web, and Windows; • Data Delivery Service (DDS), a set of tools to deliver data to iPads and other onboard devices for offline access; • Aero Charting, an easy-to-use moving map EFB application for iOS, and Multi-Mission NAV, a version for Department of Defense users that adds nautical chart data.
eTT also acquires Eagle Cap’s breadth and depth of experience with flight planning, optimization, dispatch, electronic flight bag, moving map, charting, aviation data, and airspace programs. Eagle Cap CEO Dane Winchester said, “Adding the Eagle Cap products to the SkedFlex suite will provide carriers a highly integrated system to manage Day of Flight operations from pre-flight planning to inflight visualization using Eagle Cap charting tools.” As the integration gets underway, customers are encouraged to continue to visit EagleCapSoftware. com for information on the Eagle Cap products and eTTAviation.com for details on the SkedFlex suite. About eTripTrader, Inc., dba eTT Aviation: eTripTrader (eTT) specializes in scalable aviation flight, crew, maintenance, accounting, inventory, HR, and management information solutions that revolutionize the way airlines achieve scheduling
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flexibility, compliance and control, all while steadfastly adhering to its core values of integrity, innovation, and first-class customer support. About Eagle Cap Software: Since its founding in 2014, Eagle Cap has focused on building products and providing services to solve the software challenges faced by our colleagues in the aviation industry. Eagle Cap built a set of products, including a data delivery system, a chart rendering engine, and a flight planning and dispatch system to address the flight operations and electronic flight bag (EFB) needs across all aviation market segments: commercial, business, general, and government. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website
PNG Air selects RAAS After a detailed systems evaluation process, PNG Air announced in mid-January 2021 that it has selected RAAS as the best software solution for replacement of disparate legacy systems in order to unify and streamline aircraft maintenance and material management processes. The decision is a reflection of RAAS’ proven ability to aggregate functionality from different systems, increasing information exchange across departments while decreasing ongoing expense. The implementation plan is comprehensive, and will include live data integrations with operations control systems as well as using RAAS as a platform to build modern workflow efficiencies. In addition, AIS’ on-time, on-budget data migration services will ensure the smooth transition of both the current fleet and the upcoming introduction of ATR 42-600 STOLs, for which PNG Air is the launch customer.
AIS’ qualified and proven implementation team looks forward to applying its aviation experience and management discipline to assure a speedy and reliable project completion. About PNG Air: the airline serves more than 20 destinations with a fleet of 15 modern ATR 72-600 and Dash 8 aircraft. Founded in 1987 as a charter company in resource development, PNG Air has grown to be Papua New Guinea’s largest domestic network, with over 750 employees and a listing on the Port Moresby Stock Exchange. PNG’s next generation airline is proud of its role in connecting people throughout the country. INTERACTIVE Click here for full product details
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AIRCRAFT FLEET VIEW Aircraft Fleet View App: developed for airlines always up-to-date view on your fleet‘s status ■ easy-to-grasp view on events like current delays, cancellations and AOGs ■ specific views for flight operations and maintenance ■ customizable for airlines and users
Iberia Maintenance, Leading European Provider of MRO Services in IAG Group selects Ramco Aviation
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marketing@crossconsense.de
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In late December 2020, Global Aviation software specialist Ramco Systems announced that it will implement its flagship aviation software, Ramco Aviation M&E MRO Suite for Iberia Maintenance (Iberia MRO), one of Europe’s leading MRO service providers in the IAG Group. Ramco Aviation Software will replace multiple systems to unify operations across Airframe Maintenance, Engine Shops, Component Shops & Supply Chain. In addition, Iberia Maintenance will also benefit from digital enablers such as Mobility via AnywhereApps, HUBs, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Dashboards and integration to ecosystem offerings powered by Ramco. The technology transformation program will enable Iberia Maintenance to future-proof its business growth while offering
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simplified user experience, driving better user adoption, increased process automation and self-service, among others. Implementing this new ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) brings four important advantages for Iberia MRO: first, maximum mobility in accessing documentation and assigning maintenance tasks online, among others; second, information and real-time update of the work carried out on the Aircraft; third, the reliability and agility of having a single source of information for Iberia MRO production management system and, finally, a much more sustainable and efficient paperless solution, as Ramco Aviation ERP eliminates printing and scanning for tasks to be performed. This new ERP developed by Ramco will be used by more than 3,000 Iberia maintenance personnel. A 50 people
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team will work in its implementation project. Andy Best, Chief Technical Officer, Iberia Maintenance, said, “We were looking for a best of breed Aviation MRO Software that caters to our different business lines. Ramco Aviation were the standout option which offers comprehensive MRO-specific functionality all in a unified offering as an out of the box solution. We are confident, the digital transformation program with Ramco will help us bring major benefits to our customers through operational efficiencies, reduced maintenance TAT, simplified processes and improved productivity. Also, as an organization, we strongly believe in investing in the latest technology and innovation to help deliver superior and differentiated services to customers. Our partnership with Ramco will help us stay ahead on the Innovation front. Together, we look forward to delivering this game changing technology.” Virender Aggarwal, CEO, Ramco Systems, said,
“We are excited to partner with Iberia Maintenance to help them achieve great heights in the market. Our laser sharp focus in building deep MRO-specific functionality coupled with the latest technological tools has helped us win the trust of global majors. The pandemic has driven many large businesses to speed up their digital transformation agenda. We are keen to support Iberia Maintenance with our best-in-class mobility, chatbots and AI capabilities to achieve business growth. We look forward to a long and successful journey with them.” Ramco Aviation Software is trusted by 24,000+ users to manage 4,000+ aircraft globally. Accessible on cloud and mobile, Ramco Aviation Software continues to innovate with ‘Anywhere Apps’, significantly reducing transaction time both during aircraft-on-ground (AOG) conditions and critical aircraft turnarounds. Ramco is changing the paradigm of enterprise software with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning based solutions,
powered by cool new features such as digital task cards, offline capability, chatbots, email-based transactions, HUBs and cognitive solutions. With 80+ Aviation organizations onboard, Ramco is the solution of choice for top heli-operators, leading defense and multiple MROs around the world. About Iberia Maintenance: Iberia Maintenance is a leading provider of MRO services to the IAG group airlines, OEMs and wider industry. With Airframe maintenance capabilities covering all group Airbus fleets including the state-of-the-art A350 and A320neo. The engine portfolio specializes on the V2500, CFM56 and legacy RB211 with the GTF and LEAP platforms soon to be introduced and component shops cover a wide range of ATA chapters. The operation supports customers around the globe, and continues to develop and innovate a business model to support customers and partners changing demands. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website INTERACTIVE Click here for full product details
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Frontier Airlines selects Vistair’s Docunet to drive superior levels of efficiency In early January 2021, Vistair Systems, a leading provider of aviation Document and Safety Management solutions, was pleased to announce a new partnership with Frontier Airlines, a low-fare carrier headquartered in Denver, Colorado. As part of their strategy of continuous improvement and innovation, Frontier have selected Vistair’s DocuNet for the content management, distribution and viewing of operational documentation, providing both a centralized point of control and an enhanced mobile experience for its users. Operating the largest A320neo fleet in the U.S., Frontier offers a wide range of domestic and international flights to 100 different destinations. As the airline continues to grow, they recognized the need for a robust and sophisticated document
management platform to drive superior levels of efficiency and scalability moving forward. Brad Lambert, VP Flight Operations at Frontier commented: “Simply put, we chose Vistair because they are the best fit for our requirements and ambitious growth plans, in terms of technical capability, scalability, and their approach to client
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management and success”. The partnership will also allow Frontier to take full advantage of DocuNet Forms, an intuitive, electronic smart forms platform, designed to put airline personnel in control of data collection. “Frontier are known in the industry for their focus on superior technology and operational efficiency, to deliver their philosophy of ‘Low Fares Done Right’. We are extremely pleased to have been chosen by Frontier Airlines and to be working with yet another thought- leader in the aviation industry. Our DocuNet Platform is a perfect foundation for digital transformation in this space, and also in the current industry climate.” stated Dominic Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer at Vistair Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website
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AirHub joins forces with Web Manuals Dutch drone software and consultancy company AirHub announced in late January 2021 that is has joined forces with Web Manuals to aid advanced documentation capabilities to their offering. AirHub supports organizations with integrating drones into their workflow in a safe, efficient and compliant manner through its online SORA tool, LUC (Light UAS Certificate) manuals, drone operations center and ground control apps. In addition, AirHub provides inclusive operational support from essential training to advanced enterprise consulting. With Web Manuals, AirHub is taking the next step in providing its customers with high-quality EASA and FAA compliant Operations Manuals, Safety Management Systems and LUC Manuals. Web Manuals enables AirHub to more quickly and effectively edit documents, set up compliance connections, and distribute digitally through the reader application. “Over the years we have supported hundreds of companies with setting up safe, legal and efficient drone operations. With increasingly complex missions and rapidly changing regulations and standards, Web Manuals solutions enable us to better support our customers” explained Stephan van Vuren, CEO of AirHub.
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only supplier of 2 MRO ‘best of breed’ plus
Operational Manual and Light UAS Certificate (LUC Manual)
All AirHub’s manuals are compliant with ISO 21384-3 (UAS – Part 3: Operational Procedures) standards. The support offered when setting up the Operational Manual include: • Organizational structures and responsibilities; • Technical specification of drones and tools; • Flight planning and preparation procedures; • Normal, abnormal and emergency procedures; • Maintenance and occurrence reporting schedules; • Crew qualification and training requirements; • Safety Management System guidelines. AirHub also offers Light UAS Certificate (LUC) support. While such certifications require no operational authorization, LUC manuals permit agile processes around Safety Management Systems (SMS), Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) and Compliance Monitoring. “Providing our tool to the UAV segment is a natural next step for us. Starting in 2021, UAV organizations are going to need to meet similar demands as those under which manned aviation has operated for decades. We have built a tool that is agile and capable of meeting the documentation needs of aviation organizations across the board — whether that be airlines or companies operating UAVs.” said Paul Sandström, Web Manuals’ Director of Operations for EMEA.
Offering DigiPLAN, DigiREPORTS, Analytics and B2B for DigiMAINT and WebPMI MRO systems. Our DigiDOC CMS is agnostic of MRO with proven integration with any competitors’ system, in addition to our own. iSPEC2200, S1000D, DITA, SPEC2000, SPEC2300
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CHI Aviation trusts Ramco
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Since switching to Aerros, our customers have:
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In early January 2021, Global Enterprise software specialist, Ramco Systems announced that it will implement its Aviation M&E MRO Suite v5.8 for America’s leading Heli Operator and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) player, Construction Helicopters Inc. (CHI Aviation), part of Heligroup Inc. and its four operating and three asset-holding entities in the U.S. In the competitive landscape for M&E software solutions, Ramco’s business partner, ROTA Technology, Inc (ROTA) played a key role in this win and will be program managing the implementation activities on behalf of CHI. With this win, combined with existing clients, Ramco will help manage the largest numbers of the civilian version of Chinooks (CH-47s), in the U.S. Headquartered in Howell, MI and part of the Heligroup Inc., CHI Aviation and its operating companies provide services such as firefighting, heavy lifting, helicopter emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue, Department of Defense (DoD), utility work, HVAC, construction, fire helicopter, aircraft, military, defense, ski lift and long-line. Ramco’s Aviation Suite will provide in-depth process to enhance CHI Aviation’s handling of complex helicopter operations for commercial and defense as well as manufacturing and MRO operations. Ramco will implement its complete Aviation software including modules for maintenance, supply chain management, safety & quality, flight operations, MRO sales, manufacturing,
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and finance. In addition, CHI Aviation will benefit from unified dashboards, mobility and offline capability giving real-time updates across multiple locations to all the users while ensuring an holistic view of the activities. Ramco’s modern integrated software is backed by next-gen technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning which will provide CHI Aviation with end-to-end visibility across entire operations while ensuring security and regulatory compliance across all organizational units. The software will also facilitate the use of electronic signatures with dual authentication to achieve paperless operations. The software will automatically integrate with other functional areas and systems, with no manual intervention required to ensure process completion, making the process more efficient and less time-consuming. Christopher Turner, President, Construction Helicopters Inc., said, “We are pleased to have chosen Ramco because of its exceptional
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track record in the heli and defense space followed by its ability to provide complete operational visibility in real-time. We are confident that this software will keep up with our rapid expansion plan and address our business challenges by significantly improving our operational efficiency.” James Cornelius, President, ROTA Technology, Inc, added, “We assessed a multitude of systems on behalf of CHI in an unprecedented time and ultimately RAMCO met all the requirements. ROTA continues to provide value to small and large operators across the world by leading and facilitating major implementations, upgrades, and support.” Virender Aggarwal, CEO, Ramco Systems, stated, “We are elated to secure yet another order win in the Heli segment in the U.S., underscoring our track record in this space. Our Aviation ERP, infused with the latest artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, has created great value for the leading companies in this segment. This deal has also opened yet another burgeoning segment, Drones and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), for Ramco which is gaining traction in both the commercial and defense spaces.” About Construction Helicopters, Inc. (CHI Aviation): Construction Helicopters, Inc. (CHI Aviation), is proud to be a United States owned and operated company. Incorporated in 1980, they provide safe, efficient and reliable IFR and VFR services to clients globally. The business offers a wide range of vertical lift solutions, which
enables them to develop a customized contract that will meet and exceed clients’ project requirements and expectations. The dedicated team of professionals has over 250 years of combined aviation experience, which ensures that clients receive outstanding performance, exceptional communication, strong attention to detail, and the highest safety standards each and every time a mission is in CHI’s hands. CHI Aviation pilots complete a rigorous qualification process before their first commercial operation. The firm’s skilled maintenance crews receive ongoing education to continuously stay abreast of the latest technology and skill training in accordance with the FAA specifications. It is CHI Aviation’s goal that customers receive nothing but the best personnel in the field. About ROTA Technology, Inc. (ROTA): ROTA is a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) at the crossroads of aviation and information technology. The company was formed with the passion and experience gained through the ranks of OEMs and Part 121/135/145 Operators, coupled with the discipline gained in the Marine Corps and an enthusiasm for information technology. ROTA believes that efficient and proven business processes are the key to success. They assemble teams of experts ensuring each client’s unique needs are covered. Services include ERP systems implementations, upgrades, training, and on-going support. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website
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aviationintertec.com | 807.625.9260 | info@aviationintertec.com
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IFS to propel major transformation project for India’s largest defense manufacturer In mid-January 2021, IFS, the global enterprise applications company, signed a contract with Tech Mahindra, a leading provider of digital transformation, consulting and business reengineering services and solutions and the prime contractor for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), to enable HAL’s Project Parivartan Program, a US$54 million (Rs 400 crore) business transformation project. Dubbed Project Parivartan and conceived as a comprehensive business transformation exercise, the initiative will involve large-scale implementation of technological enhancements to establish new work processes based on industry best practice. The comprehensive IFS solution will replace a large number of disparate business systems in HAL with a central, consolidated platform that will
empower staff with easy access to accurate data. The project will also provide enhanced inventory visibility and purchasing power, powerful financial capabilities and group-level consolidation. “In order to meet the challenges of evolving business scenarios and to ensure sustaining competitiveness and customer focus, HAL has initiated ‘Project Parivartan’,” said Mr. R Madhavan, CMD, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. “As a leading digital transformation company, Tech Mahindra will implement the new platform from IFS and help HAL meet the dynamic needs of this hyper-digitalized world using ERP. This will further enhance missioncritical processes such as MRO and will facilitate HAL in ushering in a new era of centralised operations based on industry best practices.”
Sujit Baksi, President Corporate Affairs and Business Head Emerging Markets, Tech Mahindra, said, “Tech Mahindra’s selection by HAL extends our vision of supporting government’s ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant) initiative to enhance our indigenous capabilities. The project will transform HAL’s ERP system through the implementation of a new platform from IFS, thus enabling us to serve the Armed Forces in an efficient and effective manner. This is in line with our TechMNxt charter that focuses
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on leveraging new generation technologies with original equipment manufacturers and aims to deliver an enhanced experience to our customers.” Michael Ouissi, Chief Customer Officer, IFS, added, “The need for HAL to manage and orchestrate the many intricate elements of its operation cannot be underrated from an effectiveness, financial and service perspective. We are honored to continue our relationship with HAL as they work with our trusted partner Tech Mahindra to implement the latest IFS solution as part of ‘Project Parivartan’. Our platform is engineered to help international, multi-site companies in heavily regulated industries, such as aerospace and defense, digitalize and positively transform their value chains.” The ERP solution from IFS will support business-critical processes, including maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), manufacturing, supply chain management, human capital management (HCM), and finance. About IFS: IFS develops and delivers enterprise software for customers around the world who manufacture and distribute goods, build and maintain assets, and manage servicefocused operations. The industry expertise of the business’s people and solutions, together with a commitment to delivering value to every one of their customers, has made IFS a recognized leader and the most recommended supplier in their sector. The team of 4,000 employees and growing ecosystem of partners support more than 10,000 customers around the world challenge the status quo and realize their competitive advantage. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website
CARDS manages P2F conversions Lessors and Airlines face continued fleet management and fleet utilization challenges over 2021 and beyond. Many industry experts are forecasting that up to 20% of the World’s passenger aircraft will not return to service in that form post pandemic. Passenger to Freight presents a real alternative for these aircraft. cloudcards is proud of the role CARDS® has played in project managing recent conversion projects. The CARDS® platform, powered by Salesforce and AWS was the software backbone of the project management for the February 2021 A321 P2F conversion with Titan Airways. With the flexibility to manage the new demand and changes made with P2F, CARDS® is ideal to oversee the conversion . The software allows overseeing physical inspection of the aircraft conversion, logging all the issues arising and also reviewing the engineering documentation for the aircraft acceptance from the conversion center. CARDS® will give users’ technical leads allthe information needed to ensure the conversion is completed on time, and can help to reduce cost. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website INTERACTIVE Click here for full product details
Fly into the future Now is the time for airlines of the world to eliminate the paper tech log. Isn’t it time you consigned paper to the bin? Start your future today: +44 (0)333 888 4044 www.conduce.net • info@conduce.net Conduce HPH 0915.indd 1
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RwandAir opts for TRAX eMRO In late January 2021, RwandAir decided in favor of eMRO software to implement a complete, user-friendly, and web-based solution. RwandAir Limited is the flag carrier airline of Rwanda. It operates domestic and international services to East Africa, Central Africa, West Africa, Southern Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, from its main base at Kigali International Airport. The airline has passenger air transportation as its core activity, supplemented by air cargo services. Operating under a slogan of ‘Fly the Dream of Africa’, RwandAir has a mixed fleet of 12 aircraft that includes Airbus A330s, Boeing 737NGs, Bombardier CRJ-900NGs, and DHC-8 Q400s. eMRO is a leading-edge device-agnostic application designed to cater to virtually every aspect of aircraft maintenance and fleet management. Deployed via any web browser, this technology lets users stay connected no matter where they are. Through this application, maintenance operations can be managed from a desktop or remotely from a phone or tablet. eMRO is a fully integrated product which allows complete information flow between the modules throughout the system. The software provides the means to manage and maintain all information generated by a maintenance organization. With an open architecture and easy installation, eMRO was built to empower users. This solution gives operations the accessibility that maximizes productivity and streamlines business processes. About TRAX: TRAX provides comprehensive software solutions designed to manage all
aspects of aircraft maintenance. TRAX is a premium provider of aviation maintenance mobile and cloud products in the global market today. TRAX products support digital signatures, paperless ‘Covid-safe’ working including Workpacks and manuals, RFIDcapability for logistics, Biometric security, offline capability for its suite of mobile apps, web-based applications, and the ability for users to work anywhere with easy access to real-time information.
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13/02/2020 17:20
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Flight Training International Turns to Proven Comply365 Solution for Paperless Operations In late January 2021, Comply365 was happy to announce Flight Training International, a Denver-based training academy, will rely on Comply365’s cloud-based solutions for a more efficient, reliable digital operation. Instructors and student pilots will have instant access to the information they need through targeted distribution using Comply365’s Document & Communication Manager (DCM). “We needed a reliable solution to provide targeted distribution of our manuals and instructional content,” Flight Training International President Mike Medley said. “Comply365 is a tried, tested and proven solution that was recommended to us by others across the industry.” Flight Training International is an FAA-approved training center specializing in ATP and Type Rating, providing training to commercial pilots, U.S. military and government entities, FAA, and flight test groups, at multiple locations across the United States. “Managing and delivering critical documents to pilots is essential at every level of aviation, and we are excited to welcome Flight Training International to our global community of pilot users,” Comply365 CEO Tom Samuel said. “We look forward to providing their instructors and students with a great user experience.” Instructors and students will be able to more accurately and quickly search their training documents, which will always contain the most up-to-date information through automatic revision controls. The academy will be able to deliver content based on roles and drive higher rates of compliance with reporting insights. About Comply365: Comply365 is a leading provider of enterprise SaaS and mobile solutions for content management and document distribution in highly regulated industries including aviation, rail, and energy. Comply365 supports the world’s most mobile and remote workforces with targeted and personalized delivery of job-critical data that enables safe, efficient, and compliant operations. About Flight Training International: Flight Training International provides cutting edge, advanced flight training for pilots who want to advance their careers in commercial aviation. Receive top-notch instruction from current and former major airline pilots! FTI’s mission is to ensure that you not only achieve your training goals, but that you walk away completely satisfied, having had a first-class learning experience. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 23
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VallJet goes for AMOS
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The French business aviation company VallJet announced in late January 2021 that it has signed for AMOS to manage the maintenance and airworthiness follow-up of its increasing fleet of executive jets. Although the airline industry is heavily affected of the Covid-19 crisis, there are some aviation sectors that are able to turn the tables and even profit from the current situation. VallJet has positioned themselves to be in the right place at the right time as their business supports private owners or companies that have decided to purchase or wet-lease business jets — a sector that has seen a surge during the global pandemic since air travel with regular airlines is less convenient at this time. AMOS is not completely new at VallJet as many employees in the maintenance and CAMO organization are already familiar with Swiss AviationSoftware’s MRO solution. In addition, part of the fleet to be phased into AMOS first, was previously managed in AMOS. This will simplify and accelerate the data transfer since a migration from AMOS to AMOS is facilitated using the standard AMOS transfer programs with the data
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available in the correct format and quality. “We very much appreciate and feel honored when former AMOS users stand up for AMOS again in their new employment context. We are glad to welcome VallJet to the AMOS Community and say “welcome back” to some old acquaintances. It is impressive to see how VallJet could use the crisis as a unique opportunity to be seized upon and grow its business,” states Ronald Scherer, CEO of Swiss-AS. VallJet’s employees are in hurry: “We have been inducting one aircraft every month over the past year; and this is continued in 2021 as we already have four aircraft signed up for flight operation start by the end of the 1st quarter. Until now, we were managing our Cessna Citation II and CJs, Hawker, Legacy and ERJs in different software solutions. To optimize and better control costs of all our maintenance activities, it became evident that we need to merge all data in one single database. AMOS turned out to be the best fit after we had tested other software solutions,” says Jean Valli, President of VallJet.
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EXSYN complete data migration of the Etihad legacy fleet from cMRO to AMOS EXSYN was happy to announce in late January 2021, the successful completion of the data migration of the Etihad legacy fleet from cMRO to AMOS. Etihad’s A380 and B787 fleet have been managed in AMOS since their induction at the airline. However, its legacy fleet comprising of A320, A330 and B777 aircraft remained in the Oracle cMRO system. The project to migrate the full scope of fleet data commenced in March 2020 and has been completed in a record time of less than 10 months. “In the middle of this critical project, the global pandemic hit aviation. As a result, it was no longer possible for the EXSYN team to travel to the client for workshops and other critical activities. However, what this project clearly demonstrates is that with the right infrastructure, governance and
collaboration tools a project as critical as aircraft data migration can even be performed in a fully virtual setup without compromising on data quality, lead-time and project costs”, said Sander de Bree, CEO of EXSYN. About Etihad Airways: Etihad Aviation Group, a diversified global aviation and travel company, is considered to be one of the world’s most acclaimed aviation brands. Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was formed in 2003 and quickly went on to become one of the world’s leading airlines. Etihad flies to destinations across the world from its hub in Abu Dhabi with a young and environmentally friendly fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. In recent years, the organization has received numerous awards for its superior service and products, cargo
offering, loyalty program, aviation training and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) service. About EXSYN Aviation Solutions: EXSYN Aviation Solutions is specialized in the field of aircraft data, analytics & processing. The portfolio of technology focuses on aircraft data and airworthiness management. These include tools for aircraft reliability management, predictive maintenance, system integration, aircraft records archiving and managed services for data migration, aircraft data optimization, and robotic process automation. INTERACTIVE Click here for full product details
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IQSMS has successfully landed in Iceland IQSMS was delighted to start February 2021 announcing Air Atlanta Icelandic, the largest ACMI and charter service provider in the world, as launch customer for IQSMS in Iceland. Air Atlanta Islandic specializes in the provision of ACMI (Wet Lease), CMI, and aircraft charter services to the passenger and cargo market worldwide. Based in Kópavogur, Iceland, the company operates worldwide, additionally setting up operation bases and maintenance line stations all over the world, at short notice, to support its global flight operation. Serving a large and diverse customer base of airlines, tour operators, charter brokers, governmental bodies and various non-profit organizations, Air Atlanta Icelandic has operated a wide range of aircraft types in the narrowbody and widebody range throughout its more than 30 years of business history, and currently operates Boeing
747-400 and Airbus 340. The operator holds an Icelandic Air Operator Certificate (AOC), issued by the Icelandic Transport Authority as well as Air Operator approvals from the US Department of Transport, the Canadian Transportation Agency and the Australian Government. “Today we are delighted to welcome Air Atlanta Icelandic to the ASQS family”, ASQS’s CEO, Günther Schindl, stated. “We are really excited about
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 26
collaborating with such a renowned and globally recognized operator and happy to thereby further expand our global footprint and presence in the Nordic region. Air Atlanta Icelandic has opted for a multi-phased implementation of the IQSMS core modules including the respective offline applications as well as two additional modules, once more demonstrating its strong focus on operational safety”, Schindl continued.
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Seabury Solutions and Ravn Alaska renew their partnership for Alkym MRO Software Seabury Solutions was pleased to announce at the beginning of February 2021 US Regional airline Ravn Alaska’s ongoing commitment to Alkym, an end-to-end enterprise MRO IT platform for managing aircraft maintenance, compliance, and material logistics. The new ownership of the US regional airline led by Rob McKinney stated that “Alkym is one of the core IT systems of the airline.” Alkym’s end-to-end capabilities are used for managing the airline’s technical operations, logistics and inventory management, enabling the airline to meet and exceed its operational and financial objectives. Alkym capabilities that help empower Ravn Alaska include: • Executive dashboards that provide management with up to the minute key performance indicators. These capabilities allow the airline to optimize its overall performance and adapt to daily operational demands. • Trend monitoring and alerting which help to focus the business on the most pressing management and operational issues. • Alkym’s fleet management console acts as a central hub for crossdepartmental communications and coordination, eliminating emailbased information silos. • These and other Alkym capabilities help the airline to meet and exceed its financial and operational
objectives, specifically increasing revenues, reducing and controlling costs while improving its industry reputation and goodwill in responding to daily operational requirements. About Ravn Alaska: Ravn Alaska is a regional airline headquartered in Anchorage and servicing communities across Alaska, including Kenai, Dutch Harbor, Homer, Fairbanks, Valdez, St. Paul Island, Unalakleet, Sand Point and Cold Bay. The airline provides charter flights, cargo shipments and daily flights aboard its safety-rated de Havilland Dash-8-100 fleet. About Seabury Solutions — an industry leader in Aircraft M&E & MRO software: Seabury Solutions is a leading global aviation software development and consultancy company. It was established in 2002 and is part of Seabury Capital.
Seabury Solutions has built its reputation in the market by delivering an industry-leading aviation suite of IT solutions that enhance the efficiency and decision-making process for airlines, regulators and MROs. The business’s integrated aviation software portfolio encompasses the Alkym Maintenance Systems for Airlines and MROs, eAuthority (a safety management software for aviation authorities) and a range of airline performance analysis tools within the Enterprise Performance Analysis System (EPAS). The EPAS suite has models that include capabilities in determining current and future route profitability, maintenance performance, budget planning, fuel planning and distribution channel performance. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website
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AIRCRAFT IT Operations
Webinars eJournals Software Conferences News Advisory Unit Want to be involved? Simply email scott.leslie@aircraftit.com for more information
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Rolls-Royce Opts for QOCO Systems as digitalisation partner
In late February 2021, it was announced that Rolls-Royce is now globally licensing QOCO Systems’ EngineData.io for its data exchange platform to support seamless integration between airline maintenance information systems and Rolls-Royce digital services for airlines that use Rolls-Royce engines. Leading aircraft engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce chose Software as a Service (SaaS) platform EngineData.io to enable automated communications between airline maintenance information systems and its digitally enhanced services. QOCO, EngineData.io’s developer, will be responsible for rolling out the solution to all Rolls-Royce customer airlines and providing production support services for business-critical data exchange.
The Rolls-Royce–QOCO Systems Story
Rolls-Royce launched the Rolls-Royce Blue Data Thread digitalisation program to provide customers a comprehensive solution that answers the need for maintenance data exchange with thousands of aircraft powered by Trent engines. The Rolls-Royce–QOCO partnership began in 2018 when Rolls-Royce chose QOCO to accelerate its global digitalisation initiative. QOCO’s deep industry expertise, delivery capability of robust data exchange solutions for airlines and state-of-the-art proven solution EngineData.io made it a prime AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 28
NEWS & TECHNOLOGY
candidate to become Rolls-Royce’s strategic partner. Nick Ward, VP Digital Systems at Rolls-Royce said, ”Our customers share data with us so that we can provide the best possible service outcomes. With accurate, timely data we can treat every engine as an individual, helping our customers to achieve high engine availability and reliability while minimising maintenance. It’s part of our IntelligentEngine vision”.
Rolls-Royce and QOCO Collaboration: successful goal achievement
As a result of the collaboration, QOCO enabled seamless data exchange between various ERP/MRO systems and Rolls-Royce digital services for clients worldwide operating with modern Trent 1000, Trent XWB, and Trent 7000 engines. According to a QOCO Managing Director Markku Nyman, “We are thrilled with what’s only the first stage of the Rolls-Royce-QOCO partnership. Together, we have the necessary expertise and skillset to pursue digital transformation in the aviation industry and give airlines rapid access to the benefits of data-driven solutions while tackling typical integration issues.” QOCO’s EngineData.io solution gives customers the capabilities they need to digitalise data flows out-of-the-box, enabling fast time-to-market of new data integration services. QOCO’s capability to roll out projects globally with minimum burden to airlines and Rolls-Royce provides key business benefits to all parties. Richard Swallow, Head of Digital Service Readiness at Rolls-Royce said, ”We are delighted to be able to offer our customers a practical solution to data collaboration. EngineData.io gives airlines complete control over the data they choose to automatically share with and receive from us. And they have confidence that the data transfer is fully secure. It’s very effective, reducing the effort required by our customers to operate some services by over 50%”. QOCO Managing Director Markku Nyman added, “We are delighted to facilitate the integration process of all Rolls-Royce customer airlines that use Trent engines as part of their digital systems. We would like to thank Rolls-Royce for trusting our capability to provide our solution and consulting services globally.” Rolls-Royce and QOCO will continue to work in tandem to help airlines optimise business processes. By automating real-world data exchange with Rolls-Royce digital services and EngineData.io, carriers can reduce operational costs, gather insights on each trip, maximise Trent engines’ utilisation and optimise maintenance schedules. About Rolls-Royce: Rolls-Royce pioneers cutting-edge technologies that deliver clean, safe and competitive solutions to meet our planet’s vital power needsfor customers in over 150 countries, comprising more than 400 airlines and
leasing customers, 160 armed forces, 70 navies, and more than 5,000 power and nuclear customers. Annual underlying revenue was £15.45 billion in 2019, around half of which came from the provision of aftermarket services. In 2019, RollsRoyce invested £1.46 billion on research and development and supports a global network of 29 University Technology Centres, which position Rolls-Royce engineers at the forefront of scientific research. About QOCO Systems: QOCO Systems Ltd helps the aviation industry to succeed in the changing world by creating new ways to work, to communicate, and to utilise data. The business has been a trusted partner of airlines, MROs, and aircraft OEMs for over ten years. Solutions provide significant improvements to the industry’s complex processes. They enable QOCO‘s customers to achieve more by doing less and to realise time-savings in labour-intensive tasks. They also bring visibility to customers’ operations to support decision-making based on real-time information. Read the full story on Aircraft IT Website
Kalitta Air live with AMOS Kalitta Air successfully went live with AMOS at the end of January 2021. The project was a complicated one as it rolled out the system across the varied business units of the company. The go-live was a ‘big bang’ approach to ensure all of the benefits were realized straight away across all of the divisions. The Kalitta business supported by AMOS includes the global operation of 37 B747, B767 and B777 aircraft, a heavy maintenance base in Oscoda with over 400,000 sq ft of hangar space, 3 engine shops totalling 170,00 sq ft. and a 10 meter engine test cell, 7 component shops, and a 24,000 sq ft tire and brake shop. This massive scope incorporates over 2,000 users and a 24/7 operation. To complete this complex project during these turbulent times is a great achievement and a credit to the dedicated Kalitta & Swiss-AS project team. “There is great excitement from the entire Kalitta staff during this first week of operation as it represents a new dawn of efficiency for the company” stated Daragh Cunningham, Senior Director AMOS Americas.
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CASE STUDY: DA AVIATION
Smart ideas to improve inventory management Daniel Stromski, Managing Director, DA Aviation explains how Inventory and Asset Management can be powered by smart automation with AI and ML technologies
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CASE STUDY: DA AVIATION
N
obody needs me to tell them that these are very challenging times with a high degree of uncertainty. And, while it’s good to see small signs of recovery appearing, it will require a plan for each organization, and some agility to overcome this unprecedented situation. To quote Yogi Bhajan, “To conquer the unknown you must trust.” But before we go into the core topic of this article, let me share with you a little about DA Aviation.
DA AVIATION
DA Aviation is a boutique consulting firm based in Australia and specializing in aviation inventory and asset management, supply chain and MRO. The firm supports MROs and small fleet operators in the general aviation space as well as major commercial airlines. We have also developed a strong partnership with Ramco Systems, a tier 1 maintenance and engineering software provider at the forefront of applying AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) capabilities in their solutions. Services offered by DA Aviation include support with supply chain and MRO processes, examining the entire supply chain and MRO process to improve efficiency and reduce waste through the application of digital technology, artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities. We also help in the area of asset and inventory management looking at asset and inventory structures to identify under-utilized assets and spare parts and help to turn assets into cash.
On the other hand, we also look at ways to increase parts availability without necessarily incurring capital expenditure. The third area covered is digital transformation, where DA Aviation supports with developing digital roadmaps, plus help with planning and executing digital transformation projects not only by focusing on the solution itself but also, more importantly, by developing a holistic change management strategy so that the client organization can understand the ‘why’, a fundamental key success factor. INTERACTIVE Click here for full product details
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CASE STUDY: DA AVIATION
TRAVEL DEMAND DRIVES PARTS DEMAND
Recent Projects Asset and Inventory Management
Providing tender support to a major commercial airline in Asia for a Power-by-the-hour component pooling program.
Supply Chain and MRO Processes
Supporting a renown IT business specialized in Maintenance and Engineering software to further develop the inventory management and supply chain module
MRO Processes
Providing Program Management support to a renown IT business specialized in Maintenance and Engineering software during the solution definition phase for a Part-145 solution implementation
Business Development
Providing marketing support to an Asset Management business to place a CF6-80 engine into the market under lease or by sale.
Business Development
Developing a sales and distribution strategy for a specialized helicopter modification company for their innovative EMS equipment with the target to sell their products in Europe and Asia Pacific.
Jumping into the main topic of this article, readers will already be aware of what is happening with the impact of COVID-19 on aviation but it’s also important to understand the consequences of what has happened and the way forward (figure 2).
Five years to return to the pre-pandemic level of passenger demand
Figure 1
Some of the work undertaken by DA Aviation can be seen in figure 1. We have provided tender support for a major airline in Asia for a Power-bythe-hour component pooling program; we’re supporting a renowned IT business specialized in maintenance and engineering software to further develop their capability with regards to inventory and supply chain plus, at the time of writing, offering program management support to that IT business in the solution definition phase for a Part M solution implementation; we provide business development support to an asset management business to place a CF6-80 engine into the market through lease or sale. And finally, we support an Australian based specialized helicopter modification company with the strategic sales and distribution channel for their innovative EMS (Emergency Medical Services) equipment to sell into their target market of Europe and Asia Pacific.
Trillion RPKs per year (globally)
12 10 8
Travel demand, drives parts demand.
6 4
50% lower spend on parts
2 0 2010
2020
2025
Source: IATA/Tourism Economics Air Passenger Forecast; Oliver Wyman
Figure 2
Overall, COVID-19 has not only impacted flight operations, moving passengers from A to B, but subsequently it has also driven consequences for how inventory and assets need to be managed in the near future at least, if not for longer since travel demand drives parts demand. So what are the likely scenarios regarding inventory and asset management operations?
Likely Recovery Scenario for Inventory and Asset Management Operations Airlines and operators will be focused on cost optimization Diminishing market value for existing owned assets and inventory as more Used Serviceable Material (USM) will be available
“More usable material will become available due to early retirements of airframes having an impact on market values. Used serviceable material (USM) will become more acceptable to airlines and operators who need to save money.”
USM will become more acceptable within airlines and operators Sales of new parts may stagnate, the USM market will follow the trend of world-wide flight recovery Average prices may not reach pre COVID19 levels anytime soon. More USM and low prices will lead to lower BER thresholds, putting pressure on component MROs
Figure 3
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While recovery slowly proceeds it is still the case that airlines must keep a sharp eye on expenditure (figure 3). More usable material will become available due to early retirements of airframes having an impact on market values. Used serviceable material (USM) will become more acceptable to airlines and operators who need to save money. That, in turn, will also have the effect that new part sales will stagnate putting component OEMs under pressure. Due to the number of airframes parked in the desert and potentially not ever returning to service, providing a good stockfeed for USM, average prices might not recover anytime soon. More available used serviceable material and lower market values will lead to lower BER (Beyond Economical Repair) thresholds in the component repair business, eroding the business and business opportunities for component MROs.
CHALLENGES FOR MANAGING INVENTORY
There are some quite significant challenges to managing inventory which are slightly different depending whether you are on the supplier side as an MRO or as an ITM (Inventory Technical Management) service provider or parts trader, or whether you’re on the side of an airline or an operator. For the first group, the question is really how to compensate for the reduced return on capital employed (figure 4).
Challenges for Managing Inventory For MROs and ITM service providers: • How to compensate for reduced return on capital employed (Inventory and Shop Equipment)?
For airlines and operators: • How to generate cash and reduce inventory (holding cost)?
• Repair or replace with USM?
• Should the organization sell inventory now and join a pool instead?
• How to manage component repairs with a reduced budget?
• How do we take advantage of USM and DER repairs and PMAs?
• How to adopt to less shop visits due to less flight activity and lower BER thresholds?
• When shall a component be repaired or replaced?
Figure 4
For a component MRO who has just invested a lot of money into a component shop or a test bench or IP agreements with the OEM but who is not getting the return in terms of repairs work due to reduced flight activities, this becomes a serious issue. Pooling providers who have invested in spares at pre-COVID prices are now facing the issue that, with reduced flight hour utilization of customer fleets worldwide, pooling programs will deliver lower returns.
Now, the questions also are, should an MRO or a pooling provider repair or replace with used serviceable material and how will it be possible to manage component repairs with a reduced budget? If a pooling provider is receiving less revenue because the airline is flying less hours than average across the fleet, that also means that a portion of the MRO fee will be reduced which then has an impact on the cost budget managing repairs. Probably more important for component MROs is how to adapt to fewer shop visits in the future because not only is lower flight activity an issue but also the lower BER thresholds because of the availability of used serviceable material in the market. As stated above, the airlines or customers will try to save cost wherever possible and therefore will tend to want to replace with USM, rather than repair. From the airlines’ or operators’ perspective, more important than anything else at the moment is how to generate cash and reduce inventory along with the related inventory holding cost. Should the organization sell inventory now and join a pool instead or should they retain inventory now and weather the storm? Also, how can an airline take advantage of USM, DER (Designated Engineering Representatives) repairs and PMAs (Parts Manufacturer Approval)? Especially more conservative airlines might well become more open about it but would still be quite insecure about the application or usage of DERs and PMAs. However, due to cost saving initiatives across the entire organization, airlines may now be considering accepting alternative kinds of repairs. And, as also for the MRO and ITM Service providers, another question is when should a component be repaired or replaced? That decision requires data and it requires information about market values.
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CASE STUDY: DA AVIATION
INVENTORY AND ASSET STRATEGIES ARE NOW REDEFINED All these challenges combined could lead to a new strategy on how to manage inventory and assets (figure 5). Create liquidity & Conserve cash
Inventory and Asset Strategies are now redefined!
Optimize Inventory, materials and other resources
Maximize Inventory utilization
A digital inventory management environment…
All these strategic objectives can be achieved by building a digital inventory management environment. So, what needs to be done? (figure 6).
The opportunity to build a digital inventory management environment… Provide business users direct access to the data they require in a format they can use. Eliminate or at least reduce extraneous steps. Providing analytics and artificial intelligence for predictive insights and anomaly detection. Lowering time and increasing accuracy with the support of AI/ML.
Reduce Inventory Holding Cost
Generate cost savings with alternative operating model
Instant visibility and updated order and fulfilment information for customer and suppliers. Improving business metrics with automated order processing. Managed services to save capital cost of building and maintaining solutions in-house.
Figure 5
Figure 6
The number one strategic objective today is cash, no question about that; which means creating liquidity or conserving cash. The other strategic objectives aim to optimize inventory; in other words maximize inventory and asset utilization by, for example, getting rid of slow movers. This in return will reduce inventory holding costs. Additionally, and that is where agile and nimble organizations will have an advantage, develop alternative operating models in order to generate further cost savings.
First and foremost, we need to provide business users direct access to the data they require and, more importantly, in a format that they can use. Secondly, we must eliminate or at least reduce extraneous steps. There is a huge opportunity, at the moment, to review processes, to find out and understand why certain steps are currently in the process map and whether these steps could be eliminated or at least reduced, maybe through the application of digital technology and automation? Systems also need to be providing analytics and artificial intelligence for predictive insights and anomaly detection; that, however, only works if data is available which only happens if the organization is set-up to collect the data, compute the data and make information available. With the support of AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) we should also be reducing time for responses and increasing data accuracy in the process of data collection. Automated order processing, real-time and instant visibility, and updated order and fulfilment information for customers and suppliers will naturally lead to improved business metrics. There are many steps that can be automated nowadays in the processing of any kind of order, whether it’s a repair order, a purchasing order, an exchange or a loan order; there’s no need to shuffle information around by email, through Excel sheets and so on.
“First and foremost, we need to provide business users direct access to the data they require and, more importantly, in a format that they can use. Secondly, we must eliminate or at least reduce extraneous steps.”
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Last but not least, we must try to utilize managed services to save capital cost. Many organizations still spend money on their own in-house IT: there are resources available, there are people on the payroll to develop specific in-house IT solutions. That might have been worthwhile a decade ago or more, when the market did not provide services such as maintenance and engineering software: however, I think we can agree that there are organizations in the market, offering solutions which are far superior to whatever in-house solution might potentially be available. How do we change this?
THE FUTURE DIGITAL ECO SYSTEM
The answer is, because our industry is on a journey to build a digital eco system based on the Blockchain technology (figure 8).
The Future Digital Eco System… ITM provider
… to be enabled by technology and processes
First of all (figure 7), organizations need to integrate disconnected applications: too many organizations still work in digital silos with many small applications or so called ‘island solutions’, which do not communicate with each other.
Accelerate digital adoption
3PL Provider
Blockchain Technology Parts Supplier
…To Be Enabled By Technology And Processes
Integrate disconnected applications
Airline
MRO OEM
Use real-time data to analyze, make decisions and act Figure 8
Deploy standard applications rapidly
Automate as many tasks and activities as possible
Decommission legacy cost and resource prohibitive software Figure 7
Then, organizations must now accelerate digital adoption: 2020 was the year to absorb the initial Covid-19 shock, 2021 is the time to accelerate, to work on the organization’s digital environment while things are still fairly slow. That will enable the organization to scale up and grow extraordinarily fast once business picks up again. Use real time data to analyze, make decisions and act. If you want an agile and nimble organization, you’ll need real-time data in order to make decisions and in order to act. In addition to that, employ standard off-the-shelf solutions rapidly, and automate as many tasks and activities as possible. Finally, stop flogging a dead horse: start by removing legacy (in-house developed) software that cannot keep up with the digital development of the market, but costs money and resources to keep it running. But why are those foregoing points so important?
In February 2020, SITA announced the launch of the MRO Blockchain alliance, which had first been proposed in 2019 during a Blockchain conference initiated and organized by HAECO, with the aim of bringing the various stakeholders together and to set a global standard around the use of Blockchain to, for example, trace components and parts, providing full visibility for a component from cradle to grave. This alliance includes leading organizations in the space. Members currently include Bolloré Logistics, Cathy Pacific, HAECO Group, SITA, and Willis Lease Finance Corporation. FlyDocs and Ramco are providing technical support and last, but not least, law firm Clyde & Co. is providing support with all legal aspects regarding smart contracts.
“By transforming your organization into a digital organization, you will automatically be well prepared to be part of the digital eco-system which will allow market participants to share information in a secure way in the near future.”
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By transforming your organization into a digital organization, you will automatically be well prepared to be part of the digital eco-system which will allow market participants to share information in a secure way in the near future.
DIGITAL ADOPTION TO MANAGE ASSETS AND INVENTORY – USE CASES How can digital adoption help with managing assets and inventory? Here are a few use cases that should help to understand. We’ll look at three cases… Use case 1 will focus on inventory holding costs; Use case 2 will focus on reduction of direct maintenance costs; and Use case 3 will focus on improved fulfilment of service levels.
Use case 1: Reduction of inventory holding costs
In this case, we’re considering how can AI and ML help with float planning and optimization as well as making AI/ML based sourcing recommendations. Automated Inventory Level Calculation and Float Optimization (figure 9).
Automated Inventory Level Calculation – Float Optimization Current Float/Inventory Level
Machine Learning Capabilities
Calculation of various dynamic parameters: 1. Fleet Information (Configuration and Fleet Size) 2. Demand Forecast (ML) 3. Removal History (ML) 4. Fleet Utilisation 5. Reliability/MTBUR (ML) 6. Repair Cycle TAT (ML) 7. NFF rate (ML) 8. Scrap rate (ML) 9. … 10. Service Level Recalculated Float/Inventory Level
Figure 9
Where can machine learning, automation and artificial intelligence play a role? If we think about how to calculate the float, i.e., the inventory level required in order to sustain the business’s operations, to support flight operations; that’s a major task: there are many parameters to be considered and most of these parameters are dynamic. It is a huge effort to manually calculate the right
“…how to calculate the float, i.e., the inventory level required in order to sustain the business’s operations, to support flight operations; that’s a major task: there are many parameters to be considered and most of these parameters are dynamic.” inventory level for operations and, because it’s so huge, it’s only done sporadically. That is an ideal opportunity for machine learning and automation. While each organization will have their own method, commonly the information in figure 9 is required to calculate the float. However, the challenge is how to calculate various dynamic parameters, such as fleet information, demand forecasting based on maintenance schedules, etc. Many of them can be done using machine learning and artificial intelligence, for example with machine learning helping to collect the information from previous, say, heavy maintenance events. While every maintenance event will have scheduled component changes, there usually are many other parts which might also need to be replaced or need to be ordered during a heavy maintenance event, but which have not been planned for. To aggregate all of the information, all of the data, will help to better prepare for future heavy maintenance events by analyzing those unscheduled or unprepared material requests. Further parameters such as removal history, historical fleet utilization and MTBUR (mean time between unscheduled removal) need to also be taken into account. The MTBUR for example can be impacted by many factors; whether by implementing certain service bulletins (SBs), by improved troubleshooting practices, better maintenance activities or better repair schemes due to change of the repair supplier… many things can have an impact on the MTBUR. All of those things are dynamic and are perfect candidates for the application of AI and ML technologies. Other dynamic parameters where ML can be of help are the repair cycle TAT (turnaround time), NFF (No Fault Found) and scrap rates; everywhere where there is an ‘ML’ in brackets are potential candidates to apply machine learning capabilities. Finally, as a component pool service provider or as an inventory manager there is obviously a need to define a service level, to support the airline’s operations. This service level will finally determine the required float, i.e. inventory level, to support operations.
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CASE STUDY: DA AVIATION
In summary, because float calculation is a complex undertaking, there is a risk of incorrect provisioning of spares, which can cost a lot of money. Either because we stock assets which are no longer needed, or we go to take material from an empty shelf and then rectify that lack of an asset by loaning a part in from the market which is an expensive option. In other words, there is an opportunity to optimize inventory through the application of machine learning capabilities and artificial intelligence technologies.
Use case 2: Reduction of direct maintenance costs
In this case, we’ll look at repair order processing and how AI and ML can be applied to those processes (figure 10)…
Use Case 2: Reduction of Direct Maintenance cost
Advanced Supplier Contract management framework Smart Unserviceable unit screening AI/ML Based Repair agency recommendation Zero Touch Repair order processing
Figure 10
There are four major areas, in which AI and ML can be applied: Advanced Supplier Contract management, Smart unserviceable unit screening, AI/ML based repair agency recommendation and zero touch repair order processing. I would like to focus on the repair order processing.
Automated repair processing
After screening of the unit, the entire process of the repair order is automated (figure 11).
Automated Repair Processing Create Customer Goods Receipt US RECEIPT
“…if the part can be serviced by multiple repair agencies, the AI algorithm will recommend the repair agency based on either historical data or on other parameters set up in the system (such as overhauls always at supplier A and regular repairs at supplier B).”
Automation of 8 Process Steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Unit Screening Supplier Identification (supported by AI & ML) Repair Order Processing Release for Shipping Issue Confirmation Pick Ticket Generation Auto Quote (FP Contracts) Auto Approval (Optional)
Approve RO
Repair Automation Rules
CAMO: Pending Tasks/Open Discrepancies Supplier: Repair Contracts, Capability Check, Exchange contracts, Customer delegation Warranty: Repair Contracts, Capability Check
Ship Parts for Repair
Figure 11
Once all parameters have been set up in the system, the receipt of an AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 37
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unserviceable part will trigger the automated repair order process; the system will pull up all the relevant AMS (Aircraft Maintenance Schedule) tasks and, possibly, ADs (Airworthiness Directives) and SBs (Service Bulletins) which need to be applied or implemented, and feed this information and other defect details into the repair order. Now, if the part can be serviced by multiple repair agencies, the AI algorithm will recommend the repair agency based on either historical data or on other parameters set up in the system (such as overhauls always at supplier A and regular repairs at supplier B). Based on the supplier contract, the quote and the approval process can then be automated or put on hold for getting an actual quote. If the unit is under warranty, the system will also identify that and then the repair order is set up for the respective repair agent who granted the warranty. This automated process with support of AI and ML could at least eliminate or reduce extraneous steps and human intervention, while providing consistency and swift processing of repair orders.
Use case 3: Improved fulfilment of customer service levels
In this case, AI and ML could help to manage the contract framework more efficiently (figure 12).
Use Case 3: Improved fulfilment of Customer Service levels
Advanced Customer Contract management framework Advanced stock allocation strategies
Advanced stock allocation
Let’s take a look at the advanced stock allocation strategies (figure 13).
Advanced Stock Allocation
Multi channel Customer interactions (Portal , Bots, EDI Exchange) Smart demand screening and Out-of-Scope Management
? ?
? ?
Figure 12
AI and ML could also help to develop and apply advanced stock allocation strategies. There are already solutions in place where customer interactions can be done through multiple channels such as chat bots or advanced EDIs (Electronic Data Interfaces). AI and ML could also support in the areas of demand screening and out-of-scope management: in other words, the system will detect automatically if a certain request is within the contract or outside of the contract and then manage the process accordingly.
Demand Category Stock Information (real time) Transit Times (ML) Flight Schedules (real time) LO/EO/PO
Demand
Loan/Exchange/Purchase Figure 13
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Nowadays, with many pooling suppliers around the world and most of the pool suppliers having multiple stock locations in Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, having the correct part in the right amount and in the correct location, becomes a challenge. The component pool customer or airline can have a demand anywhere in the world, but the challenge for pool suppliers, or the airline managing their own inventory, will be to understand and to decide from which stock location the part demand would ideally be satisfied? Having the part available in every location is not feasible and would be very costly and if the part is only available in one location, this question won’t arise anyway: however, it might be necessary to consider splitting the pool (and losing economies of scale) or reviewing where stocks of certain parts are spread around the world. The question is, how to allocate parts across multiple locations in order to fulfil part demands of multiple aircraft in adequate time? AI and ML could be the answer. In case of a raised part demand, the system would scan the demand category of the customer — is it a critical demand, is it a MEL (Minimum Equipment List) restricted demand, how much time is there available to fulfil this demand? The AI empowered system will then scan the stock information in real time for all relevant stock locations around the world; with the help of ML capabilities the system will have learned various transit times to move the part from A to B and we might even have EDIs in place to access real time information of available flight schedules. This way the system can propose the optimum solution to deliver the part from a certain stock location to where the part is needed. And, as icing on the cake, if the system comes to the conclusion that there is no stock available and/or the part could not be supplied within the required contract delivery time, risking a service level penalty, the
WHO CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN?
Having considered the three use cases, the next question that arises is who can actually do the things that were highlighted in the cases? Ramco Systems is at the forefront in the application of AI and ML powered MRO software. The company has a global presence with customers around the world including MROs, commercial airlines, aircraft operators, helicopter operators, OEMs and defense contractors. The solution offers a wide spread of applications and modules from engineering, CAMO, maintenance, supply chain management, safety compliance and quality, flight operations, employee records, MRO parts sale, manufacturing, and finance and accounting. A fully integrated ERP suite for any aviation or aerospace company and a modular system — it is not necessary to have the whole suite implemented but users can pick and choose from the range of solution modules and Apps to match and meet the needs of their operation and business model.
system can be programmed so that it will automatically raise a loan order, an exchange order or a purchase order to a supplier who will fulfil the demand on behalf of the pool provider. That concludes the article which, I hope, has added to readers knowledge of applying the latest technologies in inventory and asset management, what those technologies can achieve and where to find the technologies.
DANIEL STROMSKI
Daniel Stromski began his career as a Logistics Officer in the German Airforce before moving to Lufthansa Technik’s Aircraft Component Division in 2008. During his tenure he was seconded to Lufthansa Technik Shenzhen to set up additional component repair capabilities, developing this facility to a significant Component MRO within LHT’s network. In 2016, Daniel joined HAECO ITM Ltd., a joint-venture company between HAECO and Cathay Pacific Airways. As Executive General Manager he was leading the asset and inventory management business and driving the digital transformation of the organization. In January 2020, Daniel started his own consultancy business in the area of asset and inventory management and application of digital technologies. He holds a Diploma in Industrial Engineering and a Bachelor of Law.
DA AVIATION MANAGEMENT
DA Aviation Management and Business Consultancy is a consulting firm based in Australia and specialized in aviation inventory and asset management, supply chain and MRO. The firm supports MROs and small fleet operators and major commercial airlines. Capabilities and services include supply chain and MRO processes, examining the supply chain and MRO process with the goal to improve efficiency and reduce waste through the application of digital technology, artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities.
RAMCO AVIATION
Ramco Aviation Software is trusted by 24,000+ users to manage 4,000+ aircraft globally. Accessible on cloud and mobile, Ramco Aviation Software continues to innovate with ‘Anywhere Apps’, significantly reducing transaction time both during aircraft-on-ground (AOG) conditions and critical aircraft turnarounds. Ramco is changing the paradigm of enterprise software with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning based solutions, powered by cool new features such as digital task cards, offline capability, chatbots, email-based transactions, HUBs and cognitive solutions. With 80+ Aviation organizations onboard, Ramco is the solution of choice for top heli-operators, leading defense and multiple MROs around the world. INTERACTIVE GIVE US YOUR OPINION CLICK HERE TO POST YOUR COMMENT INTERACTIVE SUBSCRIBE HERE CLICK HERE TO READ ALL FUTURE EDITIONS
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The runway to recovery Graham Grose, Vice President and Industry Director, IFS explains why Future proofing will be key for commercial aviation progress in 2021
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T
he past 12 months have been an extremely testing time for those operating in the commercial aviation industry, but all eyes are focused on 2021 and beyond, and on the developments that are set to dominate the industry and help guide it towards as quick a recovery as possible. 2021 will be a crucial time for commercial operators and independent MROs alike, and the decisions they make during the recovery process could mean success or failure for some organizations. This article highlights four areas of change that will be paramount to drive recovery in the sector in 2021 and beyond. Commercial aviation has faced major challenges in 2020 due to the near shut-down of international travel in March 2020. Commercial operators and MROs have had to park almost entire fleets of aircraft and maintain them over a nine-month period to ensure they are flight ready, when the time comes. But as vaccines are rolled out, the future is looking more hopeful for the industry, and controlling the financial impact of the pandemic will be an aim for many commercial carriers and MROs in the recovery phase. Flexibility and future proofing will, therefore, be key themes for the industry outlook for 2021.
RETURNING TO SERVICE
Considering if and when to return fleets to service, agility and flexibility will be key to a successful process. Airlines had to park huge percentages of their fleets
“…as vaccines are rolled out, the future is looking more hopeful for the industry, and controlling the financial impact of the pandemic will be an aim for many commercial carriers and MROs in the recovery phase.” of aircraft in March and many have only returned service to a fraction of their pre-pandemic capacity since then — in April it was reported that almost two thirds of global fleets were parked. After aircraft have remained dormant for the majority of 2020, the next challenge airlines will face is if, and when, they should return the majority of the fleet to full service again. Some airlines will be carefully assessing the value in bringing older planes back to service and many airlines have even made the decision to retire aircraft early due to the increased maintenance costs of older aircraft. Some aircraft will take over 100 man-hours or 45 days to become flight ready once they are brought out of storage, so bringing aircraft back to service is not a decision that commercial operators will be taking lightly. INTERACTIVE Click here for full product details
Remote assistance for Aviation MRO Collaborate, diagnose and solve maintenance issues with remote technicians and experts in real-time. IFS remote assistance: read about it ifs.biz/remotemro
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Leveraging AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) learning capabilities to model and prepare for different scenarios will be vital to support accurate assessment and timely decision making, which will be addressed at greater depth later in the article. The decision will depend greatly on how long it takes for international travel to resume, international travel corridors and the distribution of a vaccine. Flexibility will be essential for airlines coming out of this. Demand will be harder to predict as attitudes to flying have changed — airlines must be prepared to mobilize aircraft quickly when restrictions are lifted. Tracking and executing on all the parts and work orders associated with an aircraft’s return to service will be crucial. The key will be flexible software that can respond quickly to changes in demand. As with the process of storing and maintaining fleets, the return to service will need meticulous planning — the success of airlines in 2021 will be closely tied to their ability to handle the return to service.
Preighters: passenger to freight to passenger
Passenger transport was almost brought to a standstill in March and many airlines are yet to return to their previous flying capacity as international travel continues to feel the effects of the pandemic. But some forward-looking airlines decided to pivot their focus during the height of the pandemic and make the transition from commercial to cargo operations — distributing PPE and other essential equipment across the globe. This has been known in the industry as the rise of the preighter aircraft. Modifying passenger aircraft for light freighting is no easy undertaking, and again the flexibility shown by some airlines has been remarkable to open this new revenue stream and keep commercial jets from being parked; Emirates, LATAM and Lufthansa among other airlines have all taken on the challenge. As the true impact the pandemic has had on the industry begins to be ascertained, I forecast that more and more airlines will transition their commercial planes into cargo to explore an avenue in commercial aviation that is still very lucrative — and some airlines are continuing to modify planes for cargo use despite coronavirus easing in some areas of the world. However, as with the parking of aircraft, if the preighter trend reverses, there will be a need to quickly re-convert those aircraft to meet passenger demand, and that will be achieved with software designed to track and manage every aircraft right down to the component level, whatever its purpose.
PREDICTING THE UNPREDICTABLE WITH AI AND ML
Delays are costly and with the financial impact of the pandemic weighing heavy on commercial carriers and MROs alike: mitigating this cost will be a goal for the industry. Customer trust is already at a low, so airlines and their MRO partners will want to help protect this as they return aircraft to service and welcome
passengers back. Data from IFS Maintenix users over the last five years shows that 45% of all parts removals were unexpected — the industry is in desperate need of more intelligent predictions for maintenance on AOG faults, remaining operating life and repetitive defects. And due to the shut-down, airlines will want to keep costly Aircraft on Ground (AOG) repairs to a minimum. IFS Maintenix data shows a machine learning approach to aircraft analytics can lead to a 30% increase in uptime. Those A&D organizations who had already invested in AI and machine learning reported the pandemic had less of an impact on their operations, as machine learning models can predict unplanned events or survival curves at aircraft or even component level. But getting a deeper understanding and predictions requires operational knowledge of historical maintenance cycles and impacting factors. This is where airlines or MROs need to make sure they can extract, store and analyze relevant data from their supporting software. This data allows artificial intelligence and machine learning to create a much more reliable picture of what really leads to failures and how Minimum Equipment List (MEL) can lead to AOGs. I believe that we will see a rise in commercial airlines and MROs turning to AI and ML technology to improve their predictive analytics and maintenance capabilities.
SUSTAINABILITY WILL GET SERIOUS
Sustainability is an ever more important issue within the commercial aviation industry as customers become even more aware of the environmental impact of flying. Many climate activists’ groups have expressed fears that due to the financial impact of the coronavirus crisis, corporations, including commercial airlines, will abandon sustainability and emission reduction commitments. But the financial impact the pandemic has had on the industry, as well as the complete shut-down of operations for many airlines, has brought more sustainable processes into focus: the complete restart of the aviation industry is predicted to be based on a much more sustainable model. The IATA has outlined that, despite COVID-19, it is continuing its program to slash CO2 emissions by half in the next three decades. Some of the industry’s leading OEMs, commercial airlines and MRO players are also seriously committed to reaching the aim of being Net Zero by 2050 and continue to invest in — and use — SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) while calling for government support for this. Rolls Royce is introducing a new service plan to make engines easier to maintain and therefore more sustainable: repair, don’t scrap. They’re using new technology, such as snake robots, to access parts of the engine that it has previously not been possible to repair due to their location in the engine. Research into electric aircraft, as well as the development of the Aviation
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their business processes. As the industry moves to recovery in 2021, investing in technology to streamline processes and improve production — as well as embracing sustainable developments and initiatives in the industry — will put airlines in a good position to hit the recovery trail and set themselves up for success in the years to come. This is not the end for air travel but the future will bring a different normal. Airlines and their supporting software need to be up to it.
GRAHAM GROSE
Graham Grose is responsible for supporting all IFS business development within the A&D industry, together with associated industry marketing and overall product direction. Graham has specialised in the supply of Logistics IS (Information Services) tools in a variety of senior appointments within Sema, BAeSEMA, BAe, BAE Systems and IFS since leaving the RAF in 1991, where he was a Supply Officer serving in a variety of operational and IS appointments. A supply chain specialist and business analyst, Graham is also a Fellow of the Institute of Management Accountants and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.
IFS Carbon Offsets trading platform, also demonstrate the industry’s commitment to becoming more
“Although the development areas for the coming year in the sector appear to be very different from each other, adaptability and flexibility remain at the heart of all of them. ”
sustainable. This will, I believe, gain pace as the industry recovers; and being able to extract the data which shows the environmental footprint of operations on a fleet-wide basis will be a necessity.
FUTURE PROOFING COMMERCIAL AVIATION
In summary, adaptability and flexibility will be required. Although the development areas for the coming year in the sector appear to be very different from each other, adaptability and flexibility remain at the heart of all of them. Commercial carriers and MROs need to adapt to the new market environment and pivot to the lucrative areas of business. This means focusing on future proofing and streamlining AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 43
With over 400 Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) or Maintenance Repair & Overhaul (MRO) companies using IFS solutions today, IFS delivers flexible, modular business solutions that manage the entire commercial aviation lifecycle of contracts, projects, MRO, assets and services. IFS offers functionality for contract and project management, risk management, budgeting and forecasting, engineering, material management, sub-contracting, document management, fabrication, service and maintenance management, as well as financials and human resources. INTERACTIVE GIVE US YOUR OPINION CLICK HERE TO POST YOUR COMMENT INTERACTIVE SUBSCRIBE HERE CLICK HERE TO READ ALL FUTURE EDITIONS
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IT systems adoption Part 1 Allan Bachan, VP, Managing Director, MRO Operations, ICF considers the rate of technology adoption through Covid-19 and how to optimize IT systems adoption AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 44
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CF is a growing global consultancy firm (figure 1), headquartered in Washington DC and that has doubled in size every five years over the past twenty years. The diverse staff from eighty nationalities is distributed across 67 offices globally and they speak seventy languages. The business’s revenue in 2019 was $1,2bn.
A Growing, Global Company Global professional, technology and marketing services firm
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Headquartered in Washington, D.C. with:
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Figure 1
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ICF’s capabilities reach across five key areas. These include Advisory, Program implementation, Analytics, Digital and Engagement. Highlighted in figure 2 are the areas and elements which we’ll touch on in this article. We’ll look at business processes, program design, analysis and benchmarking, assessment and evaluation, business intelligence, IT modernization, transformation and training or knowledge transfer.
Our capabilities Advisory
Program Implementation
Analytics
Digital
Engagement
▪ Program design
▪ Research
▪ UX and design
▪ Research and evaluation
▪ Program management
▪ Survey research and informatics
▪ CRM tools
▪ Market strategy
▪ Policy implementation
▪ Information and data management
▪ IT modernization
▪ Creative and brand
▪ Program analysis and benchmarking
▪ Business intelligence
▪ Systems integration
▪ Marketing services ▪ Communications
▪ Assessment and evaluation
▪ Data analysis
▪ Enterprise transformation
▪ Reputation issues management
▪ Training/technical assistance
▪ App and web development
▪ Risk assessment and mitigation
▪ 1-to-1 loyalty marketing
▪ Regulatory planning and compliance ▪ Economic and financial analysis
▪ Reporting
Our work is global, with a wide variety of engagements across our practices
■
I I
Figure 3
INTRODUCTION
▪ Strategic planning
▪ Business process operations and optimization
ICF applies its capabilities to the aviation community across seven practice areas including aerospace & MRO, airports, airlines, aircraft, sustainability, tourism and transactions. The business has existed since 1963; the aviation practice having in 2007 with the acquisition of SH&E and the further acquisition of -opened AeroStrategy in 2011. The consultancy has several partnerships and affiliations 1111with bodies like IATA, the World Travel and Tourism Council and the Airports Council International. ICF is also an ISTAT (International Society of Transport Aircraft Traders) member which supports the Aircraft practice. The consultancy’s work is global (figure 3) and includes commercial airlines, MROs, lessors, airports and government agencies. Fundamentally, ICF has been supporting the entire aviation eco-system on a variety of projects over many years.
▪ Customer analytics
▪ Cybersecurity
To introduce the topic, there has been a rapid pace of advancement with technology and business adoption of that technology (figure 4). However, just 40 percent of organizations are on the latest release of the business systems that
▪ Full-service marketing agency ▪ Advertising
“…just 40 percent of organizations are on the latest release of the business systems that they use; only 60 percent of what is installed of those systems is actually used and just 50 percent of all business processes and tasks are enabled with modern technology.”
Figure 2
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 45
WHITE PAPER: ICF
they use; only 60 percent of what is installed of those systems is actually used and just 50 percent of all business processes and tasks are enabled with modern technology. 2
Introduction
▪ The fast rate of innovation and advancements with business software currently outpaces adoption… ▪ It is estimated that less than *40% of organizations are on the latest releases of their core business support software systems ▪ The usage of what is installed and available is lower than *60% ▪ Technology enablement of business tasks and processes is at just *50%
Source: BDO
3
Source: McKinsey and Company
1. According to McKinsey, 55% of businesses across the globe have accelerated digital adoption by 7 years in just 7 months
Source: Engine B2B Supply Chain Research
2. BDO advises that the execution on digital strategies is a key advantage 3. An Engine B2B research study shows that Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is the #1 technology adoption in operations at 38%
Note: Before embarking on an improvement program, you must first gauge your current adoption maturity on existing technology
Figure 4
To improve this situation, our solution models at ICF are designed to measure how well business processes are enabled with modern technology; identify potential opportunities; map out how to close the gaps; and to build a continuous improvement framework and thereby institutionalize this as an ongoing behavior. Before we delve into the ICF models, let’s take a look at considerations for COVID-19 (figure 5). A McKinsey study showed that 55 percent of businesses around the world have accelerated digital adoption by seven years in just seven months of 2020. This is, of course, unprecedented and driven by coping mechanisms to COVID-19. BDO advises on how being nimble can help
▪ To make optimal use of your software tools… ▪ Study how well your business processes are enabled with technology ▪ Define gaps and opportunities from that study ▪ Set a strategy for improvements to realize identified gains ▪ Embed a culture of continuous improvement ▪ Institutionalize an ongoing sync of software and process change updates *ICF research
Figure 5
However, before embarking on any improvement program, you should know where your current maturity stands. That’s the key focus of this article.
ADOPTION STUDY
We’ll first look at the Adoption Study model. There are five steps that make up the Adoption Study model (figure 6). IT Adoption Study model 1
“…55 percent of businesses around the world have accelerated digital adoption by seven years in just seven months of 2020. This is, of course, unprecedented and driven by coping mechanisms to COVID-19.”
2 Business processes catalog
Supporting IT Systems
Functions
Applications and modules
Process maps Tasks and Decisions ✓ Critical path ✓ Value added ✓ High risk
Figure 6
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 46
3
Software ‘assets’ ✓ Programs ✓ Screens
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Settings Options Parameters Tables Workflows Reports
Adoption study 4 As-Is Blueprint
1
Configurable dependencies
COVID-19 considerations
organizations leapfrog their less nimble rivals. According to an Engine B2B study, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is of the highest interest when it comes to modernization moving forward. Automatization, automation and digitalization of business processes are therefore key priorities.
5
Internal measures and gaps • How many business tasks are enabled with software assets? • How well are the software enabled tasks fulfilled by technology assets? • How feasible is it to enable unenabled tasks with existing software? Industry measures and gaps • How available are external software assets for unenabled processes and tasks? • How well would these software assets complement existing technology? • How well adopted are the externally identified software tools?
WHITE PAPER: ICF
Know what you do today
First, there should be a business processes catalog, a list of the core responsibilities within the area under study. The list should be hierarchical in nature and should have all of the functions broken up with a defined set of processes for these functions which are best represented diagrammatically in process maps. Within these maps should be tasks and decisions which have to be undertaken by specified roles within the organization: tasks which fall into categories such as Critical Path, Value Added and High Risk. Another way of looking at this would be identifying the important few as against the trivial many since there will be hundreds of tasks, if not thousands, within a process set — once they have been documented. A quick example to illustrate this would be, if you’re looking at, say, the maintenance planning division within an airline, there would be functions such as Forecasting, Manpower Planning, Resources Scheduling and Work Packaging. Then, within each of those functions, there wil l be step-by-step process paths and how they are executed by the staff within that division. For example, with work packaging, one may have to prepare the task cards, pull off a due list, do a tally sheet, collate the cards, put them together dispatch them… all of which constitutes a process. It is important to note that these would usually be crossfunctional representations, which will involve people from other parts of the organization, including supply chain, production, engineering and other divisions.
Know what IT assets you have and what they are used for
The second thing to do is take an inventory of all of the IT systems that support this business area and functions. Frequently, that will be part of a larger enterprise system. These systems are usually presented as modules or a combination of applications. With an example like maintenance planning, there may be a planning module or it may reside within engineering or other parts of the application. These modules and applications may have the same names as business functions but, in some cases, they might not. Also, in several cases, business tasks may be done using screens from other modules. For example, engineering staff may manage parts master record information in the materials management module. So, get a list of all screens and programs that a user would typically use for the business task: all users should be included, administration as well as end users. Programs confined to the IT world or people who manage rules and access in the system should also be documented, not just end user transactions. Even the reports and the way that you would pull, say, overnight reports; those should also be included. Then identify all the configurable, system dependencies for each screen and program. This will include settings or options, parameters, workflows, tables and reports: these can be known by unique names depending on the system. Once steps 1 and 2 have been completed, you’ll be ready to do the Adoption study.
“…if you’re looking at, say, the maintenance planning division within an airline, there would be functions such as Forecasting, Manpower Planning, Resources Scheduling and Work Packaging.” Understand the relationships between functions and IT assets
To do so, you have to map every task and decision in each process and the related software ‘assets’ where an asset is a dependency from the technology used to perform the task. We call this the ‘as is’ or ‘solution’ Blueprint. There may be many ways to access system screens or programs: the shortest path is to start from the role with which you are dealing; then measure how many assets are used, how many tasks are enabled and how well enabled the tasks are within these assets. That’s the internal measure but the external view is also important. It’s a good idea to look at what is available within the industry for tasks that are not fulfilled well enough with technology tools. There may be more mature tools to automate some tasks or there may not and that’s okay even if there are not any available; not everything can be automated. What’s even more important is that, while there may be available technology, you have to make sure that it fits your overall IT landscape. We have seen organizations try to couple end-of-life applications with brand new ones and something always breaks.
Business processes catalog
There are four key steps in creating the business processes catalog. First, look at the organization’s hierarchy of business functions: for example, if you look at a typical MRO system, there are key functions including engineering, planning, production, quality, supply chain, finance and human resources. It’s important to view this exercise as collating functions and processes rather than departments. Therefore, some departments would have multiple functions or, in other cases, functions would cross departments. In many ways, all four steps in figure 7 can be carried out concurrently. For example, a function can become a process or a process can become a task, depending on the hierarchy that you are building. Some tasks, based on the level of importance, may also be broken out or elevated accordingly.
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WHITE PAPER: ICF
“…if you look at a typical MRO system, there are key functions including engineering, planning, production, quality, supply chain, finance and human resources. It’s important to view this exercise as collating functions and processes rather than departments.” 1
A. ▪ B. ▪ C. ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ D. ▪ ▪
Business processes catalog Define the organization as a hierarchy of business functions For example: Engineering; Planning; Production; Quality; Supply chain; Finance; HR List all processes within each business function For example: Finance = Budgeting + Accounting + Billing + Payroll + …. Create a detailed cross-functional map of each process ‘Who’; ‘does what’ task level and decision details. Represent actions versus events RASCI-VS definitions: Responsible; Accountable; Support; Consulted; Informed; Verified; Signatory Capture Supplier; Inputs; Process; Outputs; Customer: [SIPOC] Name owners, approvers and stakeholders for each (cross–functional) process Identify the critical, value add and high-risk paths within each process Based on compliance, quality or other organizational objectives Using all stakeholders’ and actors’ inputs
Figure 7
Creating detailed cross-functional maps for each process does require some work. If documentation does not already exist in the form of procedures manuals, then this has to be interviewed out of organization personnel in interactive workshops. It is important to include all stakeholders and, as we can see, the RASCI-VS (Responsible, Accountable, Support, Consulted, Informed — Verified, Signatory) index has to be captured. Another way, instead of interviewing this out, is observing how it actually works within the enterprise. Beyond the usual Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed, we also advise to have support, verified and signatory RASCI items. The Support role is really assigned to the technology objects where the system is used to fulfil the task or the system may be autonomous as a responsible role in fulfilling the task. The usual SIPOC (Supplier, Inputs, Process, Outputs, Customer) method of developing process maps is encouraged. By the time the processes have been documented, hundreds if not thousands of tasks will have been identified
therefore it is again important to focus on the important few as opposed to the trivial many, as we’ve already seen (above). Critical, Value Added and High-Risk paths within each process should also be identified. These can be around financial, regulator, quality, compliance or other measures. Relative to MRO IT projects, ICF brings a best practice catalog of four hundred or so prescriptive processes based on our long experience across multiple projects and multiple geographies as well as the specific business models of airlines and MROs.
Supporting IT systems
The next step is to take an inventory of all technology objects (figure 8) which are used for that business area. Include applications, integration and data objects. Ensure the capture of all applications including desktop and one-off tools, which may be in Excel or other MS Office tools. Also include any APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) and peripheral systems such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Finance or HR (Human Resources) systems. Data might also be in paper forms or other data repositories such as SharePoint: be sure to capture those as well. Maintain these as a hierarchical list identified to modules and applications. This makes it easier to align technology objects to business functions, processes and tasks. 2
A. ▪ ▪ ▪ B. ▪
Supporting IT systems
Take an inventory of all supporting IT systems and tools Applications: Include desktop and one-off tools (E.g. MS Access, MS Excel) Integration: Include APIs and peripheral systems (E.g. CRM; ERP; HR; Finance) Data: Include hard copy libraries, storage media and other data repositories Fragment supporting systems into core modules and applications To better facilitate alignment to the business processes catalog
– For example, [SAP] MM = Materials Management and FI= Financial Accounting
C. Identify all user configurable and dependent software objects ▪ Start with the selected system ‘page’ or ‘screen’. Then fully explore all configuration elements which influence the behavior of that page/screen ▪ Configuration elements may include Settings, Options, Programs, Parameters, Workflows, Tables, Reports, Attributes, etc. Names will vary by system. ▪ Note that all functionality may not be used, yet all configuration dependencies should be completely identified Figure 8
For every transaction, screen or page, within those systems there will be configuration options or settings which influence the behavior of the screens with which a user may interact. An example of that would be that, in my phone, the way that I read my mail and the settings can be different from the way in which you read yours as well as the way you would configure a banking App or
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WHITE PAPER: ICF
“Creating detailed cross-functional maps for each process does require some work. If documentation does not already exist in the form of procedures manuals, then this has to be interviewed out of organization personnel in interactive workshops.” any other type of application. All applications will have user-configurable options. These should be identified based on the parent objects, screen or program. Based on the actual system, the names of these settings and options will be different; however, in almost every case, it will be ‘settings’, ‘options’, ‘workflows’, ‘tables’ and ‘reports’. In part 2 we will continue with the adoption study, looking at the ‘as-is’ blueprint, measures and gaps, adoption improvement and EPC support.
ALLAN BACHAN
Allan is a Vice President at ICF with 32 years of industry experience as an Aviation M&E, MRO and Supply Chain solutions and systems domain expert. He is responsible for ICF’s MRO Operations and IT practice and he manages the Aircraft Commerce Consulting relationship with ICF. His experience includes managing application design, development, and full cycle implementation — from selection to go-live — for strategic clients in the MRO industry using different commercially available MRO IT products. In his career, Allan has fulfilled the following leadership roles: MRO IT practice and technical lead; MRO systems Product Principal; M&E and MRO Solutions Director and Manager of Technical Records, Maintenance Planning and Production Control.
ICF
ICF is a global consulting services company with more than 5,500 specialized experts, who are not typical consultants. They combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge engagement capabilities to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change and shape the future.
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CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
Realizing the gains from digital processes at Sabena Technics François Doré, Deputy Director General Strategy and Innovation, Sabena Technics explains how the independent MRO has benefitted from Digitization Performance Gains
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 50
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
I
would like to use this article to share with readers how Sabina Technics decided to implement Trax as a performance lever for the activities of the business. We’ll look at this in five main sections. The first two will be dedicated to an overview of Sabena Technics and the main challenges the business faces as an independent MRO. Then we’ll introduce readers to the digital transformation plan itself, before focusing on Trax project timelines and methodology. To conclude, we will look at the performance levers that Sabina Technics has managed to put in place as a result of this project. So, first, some information about the business that is the subject of the article.
The Sabena Technics group had its origins in 1968 as TAT, Touraine Air Transport, (figure 2) which, in 2000, made an acquisition of ROM industry. That was followed in 2005 with the acquisition of Sabena Technics in Brussels and the group adopted the name ‘Sabena Technics’. GROUP KEY DATES 1968
2005
Creation of Touraine Air Transport (TAT) by Michel Marchais
Acquisition of Sabena technics in Brussels
2014 Sabena technics Brussels is no longer part of the Group
2019
2020
Acquisition of New EAS which becomes Sabena technics PGF
Acquisition of AeroTech Pro
SABENA TECHNICS
Sabena Technics is a leading French independent MRO provider working in both civil and military operations (figure 1). The main areas of activity are airframe, CAMO, components, aircraft modification, painting, supply chain and training. With more than 3,000 employees, the business is valued at 520 million Euros and serves more than 500 customers around the world, performing 350 heavy checks as well as repairing 50,000 components each year.
SABENA TECHNICS GROUP
3000
520M€
(2020)
(2020)
Employees
turnover
+500
Clients worldwide
350
Heavy checks performed / year
+50 000
2007
2015
Sogerma services (1924) becomes Sabena technics
Opening of a painting center in Toulouse
2019 The Sagard, Bpifrance and TowerBrook funds acquire majority of Sabena technics’ capital
EXPERIENCE AT THE SERVICE OF PERFORMANCE
4
Sabena technics is a French leading independent provider of MRO and modification solutions for civil and military aircraft operators.
2000 TAT Industries acquires AOM Industries (1991)
The history of Sabena technics Group is marked by a dynamic industrial heritage spanning more than 90 years. Guided by its entrepreneurial spirit, daring and agility, the Group provides its customers with a efficient industrial tool and local solutions.
Figure 2
In 2007, the group bought Bordeaux based Sogerma Services then, in 2014, Sabena Technics Brussels left the group, but the group retained the name as Sabena Technics. A new painting center was opened in Toulouse in 2015 and, in 2019, Sabena Technics acquired New EAS which became Sabena Technics Perpignan. Also, in 2019, there was a change of shareholders when Sagard BPI France and Towerbrook took a majority shareholding in the business. Later, in 2020, there was a further acquisition, in this case of AeroTech Pro in the South of France. OUR MISSION Sabena Technics services are delivered on three main pillars (figure 3). OUR MISSION
Component repaired per year
Figure 1
:The main areas of activity are airframe, CAMO, components, aircraft modification, painting, supply chain and training. “ Figure 3
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 51
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
First, jobs are delivered with the highest level of safety for both aircraft and personnel working in the facilities; secondly, the best quality is assured in all Sabena Technics’ operations to ensure customer satisfaction and, finally, all teams are also focused on performance, critical in this pandemic period. Sabena Technics group is managed by Sabena Technics Odin (figure 4). There are several independent companies in the group with their own teams and facilities in Bordeaux, Dinar. Nime, Toulouse, Perpignan as well as Papeete, Dubai and Singapore.
OUR LOCATIONS
ORGANIZATION
OUR COMPANIES
OUR JOINT-VENTURES
Figure 4
There are also some dedicated affiliates in specific business sectors, such as Manaero Interim, and Sabena Technics training in Bordeaux as well as some joint ventures such as X-Air, Sabena Technics Mere, IGO Solutions and SCS. As a French MRO, Sabena Technics is mainly based in France in Dinar, Bordeaux, Perpignan and Paris. But there is also a global worldwide footprint (figure 5) in Monastir, Dubai, Singapore, Papeete, Noumea and Cayenne.
“Being an independent MRO introduces more complexity to operations. There are multiple customers to be dealt with, not only different airlines and aircraft builders but also military customers.”
Figure 5
CHALLENGES FOR AN INDEPENDENT MRO
Being an independent MRO introduces more complexity to operations. There are multiple customers to be dealt with, not only different airlines and aircraft builders but also military customers. Furthermore, the business handles a range of aircraft types from the Airbus and Boeing families as well as military aircraft. That creates major constraints in aircraft documentation management. There are also a wide range of specific processes that have to be catered for as part of the business’s activities and processes. For instance, in addition to Sabina Technics’ own task card, they have to manage the sign-off of customer task cards. Add to all that, that the business also manages aircraft modification with an integrated engineering office and it becomes clear that, in order to deal with these levels of complexity, the organization and process tools have to be very flexible. It was in this context that the business decided two years ago to launch a large program of digital transformation.
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CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
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In 2018, Sabena Technics launched its digital transformation program targeting three main objectives (figure 6). These were: • To increase customer satisfaction and develop market share. • To optimize performance in operations, which has become critical during this COVID period. • To offer the ‘best-in-class’ working environment for mechanics in order to attract the best talent.
Digital transformation targets in Sabena technics Increase customer satisfaction and develop market share Optimize performance in operations
•
Attract new talents by offering innovative environment
Sabena Technics launched in 2018 its digital transformation in a very practical approach
Figure 6
“To begin with, there was an effort to keep the Sabena Technics team aware about changes in the business. Then, the search for a partner meant looking closely at the main players and start-ups in different technologies such as mobility, big data, artificial intelligence, bots, and virtual reality” AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 53
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
This transformation plan was organized around five principles (figure 7).
In light of the approach and these objectives that had been determined, Sabena Technics decided to implement eMRO with e-mobility from Trax as key pillars in the airframe operation transformation (figure 8). The project to bring that about was called Connected Mechanics, to reflect the project’s aims of putting the mechanics in the centre of the process.
Our approach of digital transformation
Watch
01
Main players Start up Mobility Big data IA Bot VR/AR …
Pragmatism
02
Be ambitious but also pragmatic
Dynamic
03
Do now
Test
04
Appropriation
“test and learn” approach
e-Enabling and making them mobile
05
Encourage users appropriation
eMRO and eMobility: heart of Airframe activity digitisation
PUSH FEASIBLE TASK CARDS
PAPERLESS
Supply chain and Planning synchro
Figure 7
To begin with, there was an effort to keep the Sabena Technics team aware about changes in the business. Then, the search for a partner meant looking closely at the main players and start-ups in different technologies such as mobility, big data, artificial intelligence, bots, and virtual reality. The second principle was to try to be ambitious with targets for significant changes in the way the business works, but also, to be pragmatic in the deployment of any changes. In order to make the change happen, it was decided to act quickly without undertaking many proofs of concept approaches but there was a test and learn approach launched with the project. Finally, there was attention paid to encourage user handover through a dedicated change management team.
DIGITAL TASK CARDS
REAL TIME
Execute Task Card assigned on iPads
Information, Task Card assignment, progress
MOBILES RESOURCES
NON ROUTINE ON IPADS
Access to multiple aircraft documentation live
Document and speed up Non Routine process
Connected mechanics Figure 8
“The second main target of this project is to be fully customer oriented by including their local representatives into Sabena Technics’ process. To that end, each customer was offered a Customer Portal in order for them to access real-time data.”
It was decided to directly implement a full paperless check approach whatever the level and so digital task cards were implemented for all mechanics, to support which, more than 400 iPads were deployed. As well as task cards, the iPads enable mechanics to record and notify defects on the aircraft and that speeds up the non-routine process including with the customer as well as enabling the mechanics to access online documentation. There is also work underway to enable the pushing of feasible task cards to mechanics by synchronizing the supply chain and operation planning. Finally, real time is a key factor to improve performance.
Bringing customers into the process
The second main target of this project is to be fully customer oriented by including their local representatives into Sabena Technics’ process. To that end, each customer was offered a Customer Portal in order for them to access real-time data (figure 9).
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 54
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
Customer oriented CUSTOMER PORTAL
SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
Real time access to work order data
Arbitration about who supply parts
The project is not only about giving iPads to mechanics, the entire range of MRO processes are covered in order to build an end-to-end digital experience (figure 10).
Integrated end-to-end maintenance process FOLLOW UP
AIRCRAFT MODIFICATION PROCESS
INVOICING
Progress and planning sharing
Follow up of invoicing
CONTRACT AND INVOICING NON ROUTINE Real time validation
WORK ORDER DOCUMENTS
Integrated customer
Figure 9
They can, for instance, follow the progress of a check on one of their aircraft by sharing the planning and Sabena Technics’ task card process, but they can also access their own task card sign-off. Customers have full visibility on non-routines raised during the check and can arbitrate to ensure the part supply chain and validate the budget. Finally, customers will be delivered a full package with digital work order documents meaning that they are fully integrated into Sabena Technics’ processes.
CUSTOMER PORTAL
9
NON ROUTINE
8
TASK CARD EXECUTION
11
10
2 3 4
7 6
WORK ASSIGNMENT Figure 10
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 55
TECHNICAL DATABASE
1
WORK ORDER AUTHORING PLANNING AND WORKLOAD RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
5 INTEGRATED SUPPLY CHAIN
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
It all starts with the technical database for each aircraft type and customer. The process also covers the work order offering which is, in the case of Sabena Technics, the key success factor in order to optimize the operation’s performance. Planning is now the central element to monitor workload and resource planning and this planning is also synchronized with the supply chain. Synchronization alerts enable the planner to adjust the execution of the work in real time. As task cards are executed in iPads, the task assignment is now a real new key process to execute, but also it will contribute to improved performance by dispatching the right workload to each mechanic. Non-routine workflow is covered, from defect detection to customer validation, through the customer portal. As part of the project, Sabena Technics was also able to increase the Trax invoicing capabilities in order to cover the needs of multiple and diverse customers. Finally, the aircraft modification process was covered with a full integration with Sabena Technics’ own engineering tool.
The main ERP is SAP where Sabena Technics manages its own inventory and accounting. eMRO is used to cover engineering, inventory for customer parts, requisition for customer parts, production and TraxDoc. It was decided to activate AeroDox and Task Control, in the iPad, for execution of the task card, Defect management and aircraft documentation. Production Control enables the business to cover the planning and workload balance, the task card assignment, the instruction of the Non-Routine, supply, and task audit. Finally, the Customer Portal enables customers to undertake real-time follow-ups, non-routine validation, additional work validation, and customer task card control.
The tools that Sabena Technics’ selected and how they are used
Project kick off
Having determined the solutions that Sabena Technics decided to use — Trax eMRO and e-mobility — and what they aimed to achieve with them, here is an overview of the scope of the tools that were implemented. Starting with the choice of eMRO, the new version of the Trax tool, Sabena Technics also selected several modules from the e-mobility suite. First the Customer Portal, then the AeroDox for aircraft documentation, Production Control which is a key element to monitor production and execution, and finally the Task Control which is the main tool for the mechanics on the iPad. Let us now look at how Sabena Technics integrated Trax tools into their IT landscape (figure 11). IT landscape
SAP
Sabena Inventory management
§ Engineering § Inventory § Requisition
Figure 11
I’d now like to share with you some elements about the methodology and the planning that Sabena Technics has used during this project (figure 12). Planning and methodology First real full digital C-check on an A330
Nov
Nov
2018
2019
Target vision + Minimum viable product + Development of custom functions
… Figure 12
Accounting
§ Production § TraxDoc
Customer Portal § Execution TC § Default § Aircraft doc
THE PROJECT METHOD AND TIMELINE
§ Planning and workload § Instruction NR balance § Supply § TC assignment § TC audit
§ Real time follow § Additional work validation up § Customer TC control § NR validation
Full deployments WO#2
WO#3
March 2020
May 2020
WO#4
June 2020
WO#5
WO#6
WO#7
July
sept 2020
Oct 2020
2020
Dec 2020
New versions
…
In terms of planning and methodology it was decided that both Sabena Technics and the Trax team would adopt an agile approach. During a first 12-month period they managed to build a minimum viable product including custom development functions. After those 12 months it was possible to conduct a full digital C-check on an Airbus A330. Following this first pilot process, the project entered into a period where there were a series of test and learn events in six new work orders. That enabled the project teams to develop new versions of the tools for each new work order taking into account experience gained. At the end of 2020, on December 20, Sabena Technics had fully deployed the Trax tools and will now be able to conduct any new work orders with a full digital approach.
PERFORMANCE LEVERS
Having introduced the project itself, I would like to share with readers the feedback around performance levers that have been identified and what implementations had to be done in this project (figure 13).
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 56
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
Planning centric method to optimize performance Workload – Capacity balance
Performance
§ Optimize resource planning § Optimize individual workload
Supply chain and planning synchronization § Organize work in advance according to parts arrival § Assign task cards according to supply planning
Central and shared WO Planning § Task optimization § Manage workload
Task and resources planning is a key success factor to enhance performance in work order execution
Figure 13
The first access that it was decided to implement was to build a planning-centric method to optimize performance, this approach was built on three major levels. • The first one is the central and shared work order planning in which Sabena Technics can optimize task cards and manage workload. • Next comes the supply chain and planning synchronization. It enables the business to organize the work in advance according to the parts arrival. • We can then assign the task card can then be assigned according to supply planning. The final lever of performance is a workload capacity balance. Thanks to the planning it’s possible to optimize resources and optimize individual workload. Sabena Technics felt that tasks and resource planning is a key factor in order to enhance performance in the execution of work.
Planning and methodology
In the next two figures we will see how Sabena Technics decided to use Trax tools in order to manage the performance levers covered above. The first two, the planning at the task card level and the workload capacity balance, are managed through a new version of the flow tab that Sabena Technics developed with Trax team (figure 14).
Planning centric and workload balance Planning at taskcard level § Optimize planning to smooth workload § Adapt workforce to workload
Workload / capacity balance
“Thanks to the planning it’s possible to optimize resources and optimize individual workload. Sabena Technics felt that tasks and resource planning is a key factor in order to enhance performance in the execution of work.”
§ Optimize planning to smooth workload § Adapt workforce to workload
Overload
Workload ok
Figure 14
In the first part of the screen in the figure, it can be seen that planning is managed at task card level which is then populated into the main phase of the project. These phases are populated automatically when the template is applied.
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 57
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
view. When there is a red box, it means that there are parts availability alerts, and the task card cannot be executed. Based on these two views of the synchronization between planning and supply chain, any action can be taken in order to adjust and make it doable.
Reactivity
Reactivity was also identified as the second key performance factor and, in this case, four new performance levers were identified that the team wanted to activate in this project (figure 16).
Reactivity as a second key performance factor When the planning is populated and during the project, users can easily see on the second part of the screen the workload balance. In each cell, the figure on the left will have come from the shift team and represents the resources available. The figure on the right is the workload coming from the task card in planning. When the Cells are red, that means that there is an overload. When the cells are green the workload is okay, and the task card can be executed.
Real time management
Bring information to mechanics § Optimize information access
Non Routine process speed up § Anticipate supply
The third performance lever is supply chain synchronization (figure 15). Supply chain synchronization
§ Identify alerts in order to adjust planning or supply § Identify cards ready to assign
§ Make right choice at right moment
§ Develop autonomy
Supply Chain synchronization
Parts arrival management
Performance
§ Integrate customer § Secure planning
Accelerate WO preparation Parts not yet received but planning and arrival date are coherent Parts not yet received and arrival date unable to follow the planning Parts available
Parts availability alert
Figure 15
Sabena Technics can now manage parts arrivals through alerts in the Parts tab. The green alerts indicate that the parts are available, and the task card can be done. The yellow alert indicates that the parts have not yet been received in stock, but the arrival date is compatible with the planning date of the task card. The red alerts indicate that the parts and the planning are not compatible and that there is an action to perform. These indicators are also available in the flow
Digital enables real time management
§ Several method to prepare work
Figure 16
The first lever was to accelerate the work order preparation and authoring by applying and offering several methods to prepare work. The non-routine process was definitively accelerated by being able to identify and report defects very early in the process. It also enables the business to anticipate supply chain, to integrate customers into the decision process and, globally, it makes those involved with the process secure with the planning. With that, information can be easily brought to mechanics. It also enables Sabena Technics to develop autonomy and optimize information access. Globally the business has now managed to implement real-time management, which ensures that the right choices are made at the right times. These four performance levers have brought Sabena Technics to a new level in performance. To summarize, digital enables real-time management.
NON-ROUTINE MANAGEMENT
Non-routine management has been a definitive key success in this project. Digital has enabled Sabena Technics to significantly speed up the process (figure 17).
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 58
CASE STUDY: SABENA TECHNICS
Non Routine management Defect declaration with picture
Repair solution & quotation § A 3 step workflow : repair solution, quotation, final validation before sharing with customer on portal § As soon as the repair solution is defined, the supply chain teams is informed
Customer validation § Use of customer portal § Customer has a complete access to the defect and repair solution proposed § He validates the supply process
Customer Portal
customers to clearly understand the defect on their aircraft and then be properly informed to be able to validate the repair. To an increasing degree, Sabena Technics’ customers ask the business to sign off not only the Sabena Technics’ own task cards but also the customers’ task cards. These sign-offs are done digitally in the iPad and the customer can see the final results in real time in the Customer Portal.
CONCLUSION
By way of conclusion, it is safe to say that Trax tools are now an integral part of Sabena Technics digital transformation. Based on a full cooperation with the Trax teams, the business has been able to develop strategic processes for independent MRO’s. Sabena Technics is now in a position to fully obtain the return on investment from their new digital tools.
Figure 17
Defects are notified in the iPad with a photograph of the problem. Then, in Sabena Technics, defects are immediately analyzed in real time, by an expert. Based on the picture, they can easily identify the level of damage and define the repair solution, the man hours required to complete it, and the parts needed for the job. Non-routines are managed by the costing team and validated by the project manager while, in parallel with this workflow, the required parts are immediately made available for the supply chain team in order to prepare for or anticipate their supply. The final step is a customer validation made in that customer’s own Customer Portal where he can also monitor the list of defects and the execution of the non-routine repair.
THE CUSTOMER PORTAL
The Customer Portal is the best way to bring the customer onboard with work on their aircraft. They can follow the progress of the check in real time, through visual indicators. And, as explained above, they can access any non-routine and repair solutions that are proposed for their aircraft. The pictures enable
“Non-routines are managed by the costing team and validated by the project manager while, in parallel with this workflow, the required parts are immediately made available for the supply chain team in order to prepare for or anticipate their supply. ”
FRANÇOIS DORÉ
François Doré is an aeronautical engineer who started at an international consulting firm, working in business transformation before working in an aeronautical supplies logistics company, then one of the most famous worldwide luxury brands as their Global Supply Chain Manager where he was ultimately promoted to Managing Director of their bespoke business. He joined Sabena Technics at the end of 2017 and is now the Deputy General Director in charge of Innovation and Strategy.
SABENA TECHNICS
Sabena Technics is an independent MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) provider with its head office in Paris and offering services to civil and military aircraft operators across 15 sites worldwide. The group also provides customers with line maintenance operations at many other airports. This deployment is part of a key principle for the company, service proximity.
TRAX
TRAX eMRO and eMobility are positioned at the leading edge of industry developments with products that support digital signatures, paperless Workpacks and manuals, RFID-capable for logistics, Biometric security, off-line capability for mobile apps, web-based solutions and the ability for its users to work anywhere with easy access to real-time information. TRAX will continue to lead the industry through technological advances and a fruitful and longlasting relationship with its customers and partners. INTERACTIVE GIVE US YOUR OPINION CLICK HERE TO POST YOUR COMMENT INTERACTIVE SUBSCRIBE HERE CLICK HERE TO READ ALL FUTURE EDITIONS
AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 59
DIRECTORY
MRO Software Directory Key ‘at-a-glance’ information from the world’s leading MRO software providers. IT is a powerful force but, to leverage its greatest value, it must be harnessed and directed. It must also be able to handle huge and growing data streams that record every aspect in the lives of aircraft and the processes by which they fly. This challenge has attracted the best brains and most innovative enterprises to create IT solutions for one of the most demanding working environments, Aircraft MRO and M&E. Inevitably, there are many such developers and vendors offering solutions ranging from single function `Specialist Point Solutions’ to complete `End-to-End’ solutions covering the whole process. Only readers will know the specific requirements of their businesses but we have assembled a directory of the best MRO software providers and listed them alphabetically to make it easier for you to undertake a brief-ish (there are 35 providers and the number continues to grow) survey of the market, as a preliminary to starting on any specification and selection process. Or you might simply read it to keep up to date with what is available today.
2MoRO
ADSoftware
W: www.2moro.com T: +33 (0)559 013 005 E: sales@2moro.com
W: www.adsoftware.fr T: +33 (0)4.50.89.48.50 E: contact@adsoftware.fr
Locations: France (HQ), Canada and Malaysia
Location: France, Thailand, South Africa, Brazil
ADT: Applied Database Technology W: www.adbtech.com T: +1 (425) 466-5013 T: +1 (614) 377-9644 E: sales@adbtech.com
Location: Bellevue, Tampa USA; Istanbul, Turkey
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Aero One, Aero-Webb, BFly
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • AIRPACK
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Wings NG
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • MRO: Line, Base, Engine maintenance • Airworthiness and Fleet Management • Flight and Crew management • Material Management • ERP: Finance, Purchasing, Sales, HR
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • AIRTIME — Fleet management & CAMO • AIRSTOCK — Inventory control & Logistic • AIRDOC — Documentation management • AIRSTAT — Reliability and statistic reports • AIRWORK — Time Tracking Software
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Fleet Management • Maintenance Engineering • Material Management • Production Planning • Labor Collection, Billing
2MoRO is a software development company dedicated to the aviation market. Our teams are located in Europe, America and Asia. We work with partners and resellers worldwide and our software solutions are used in more than 20 countries. We propose 3 different software solutions in order to fit every type and size of Aviation, Aerospace and Defense companies. Our solutions have been chosen by aircraft and engine manufacturers such as Airbus Helicopters, Dassault Aviation or Safran Group but also by aircraft operators, airlines or independent MROs. We also have a R&D department and can help you in data migration. Aero One® and Aero-Webb® have been designed to complement your ERP solution regarding aviation and MRO specific needs. They are certified by SAP®, and Aero-Webb® can also be used as stand-alone. BFly®, our latest software, is a new way to create customized software for aviation and enables users to collaborate, design personalized screens, workflows and business processes.
ADSoftware has developed an integrated fleet management system and logistic package called AIRPACK. This 6 module system answers to the needs of aircraft and helicopters operators, as well as MRO and CAMO centres. It meets all requirements in terms of functionality, traceability, performance, aviation legislation and regulations. Today, ADSoftware counts more than 54 clients worldwide. The strength of ADSoftware is the simplicity of its products; they are Microsoft Windows® ready, Web-enabled, available in various languages and a complete training program can be done in just five days. The company also provides a 24/7 online technical support and extremely competitive pricing conditions.
APPLIED DATABASE TECHNOLOGY (ADT) is a professional services and software development firm that provides MRO software solutions for aircraft operators as well as aircraft repair and overhaul organizations. Our commitment to this business segment is proven with our software package, WINGS, designed specifically for aerospace companies. ADT has been in the software business since 1992 and has built an excellent customer reference base. Our first priority is always customer satisfaction; thus we have obtained 100% customer satisfaction since 1992. ADT has a proven record to develop reference accounts in the Aviation industry along with other high technology companies which are considered to be leaders in their fields.
At 2MoRO, we are proud to offer a very dedicated customer service, as reflected by our 95% retention rate. We work mainly on a fixed-price base and we are ISO 9001 certified for aviation software development, maintenance and support.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 60
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DIRECTORY
AIRCRAFT IT AeroSoft Systems
Aerostrat
AirInt Services
W: www.aerosoftsys.com T: +1 905.678.9564 E: sales@aerosoftsys.com
W: www.aerostratsoftware.com T: +1-888-558-2860 E: info@aerostratsoftware.com
W: www.airintservices.com T: +33 6 14 39 81 55 E: mlopez@airintservices.com
Location: Ontario, Canada; Miami, FL, USA; Austria
Location: Seattle, USA
Location: Bordeaux & Paris (France)
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • DigiMAINT, DigiDOC, WebPMI/DJM
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Aerros
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Cabin App, RFID App, Cargo App
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Maintenance and Engineering Management • Digital Document Content Management • Business Intelligence Reporting • Business 2 Business transaction interface • Interface to Financials / Flight Operations
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Heavy/Base Maintenance Planning • Capacity/Workload Planning • Maintenance Schedule Optimization • Maintenace Event Performance Tracking • Heavy/Base Production Schedules
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Cabin Maintenance • Data Management & Analytics • Digital Solutions & Mobility • Safety Equipment Inventory (RFID)
AeroSoft Systems Inc. is unique in MRO IT, born in 1997 out of aircraft OEM digital document systems and the evolution of ATA iSPEC2200 and SPEC2000 standards. AeroSoft has two distinct MRO IT products: DigiMAINT and WebPMI sharing a common set of optional modules for BI, B2B, Finance and Flight Operations, plus DigiDOC, a state of the art digital content management system. AeroSoft has the unique expertise to integrate DigiDOC with any competitive MRO IT system. Strategic partners include Hexaware Technologies Inc. who are jointly going to market internationally offering large IT capacity at competitive rates.
Aerostrat is based in Seattle, WA and offers one product called Aerros, a one-of-a-kind program that manages an airline’s or MRO’s aircraft maintenance schedule. Aerros enables users to optimize the maintenance program by managing various maintenance and operational constraints, which maximizes event yield, drives costs down, and enables the organization to plan proactively, not reactively. Aerros provides robust ‘what-if’ scenario capabilities that allow users to see the effect of different variables. This aids in making sound business decisions concerning the maintenance and fleet plan. Some of these variables are maintenance programs limits, min/target/max yield, aircraft hr/cy utilization, track/requirement compatibility, and maintenance allocations. To forecast an optimal maintenance plan within an operation, Aerros also provides a Capacity Planning feature. This feature allows users to input and view vendor capacity available and labor hour demand to better manage the labor force. Aerros also provides easy-to-navigate scenarios with drag and drop event movement and manipulation. Scenarios can be published so others (including vendors or operators) can view the plan. Aerros provides excellent system stability and reliability with standard IT practices. It is also integrationready and designed to work as an extension of a user’s existing information systems.
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AirInt Services is a French aviation software provider created in 2011 and specialized in developing digital maintenance solutions for Airlines & MROs. Our headquarters are located in Bordeaux in the South of France, and we do also have sales offices in Paris to easily connect with all our customers. We exclusively work in the aerospace industry because our background and our DNA is cabin maintenance. Indeed, we have accumulated decades of experience in: • Equipment removal, installation, modification and overhaul • Spare part logistics, purchase and supply
Operations
Webinars eJournals Software Conferences News Advisory Unit
• Shift for A & C checks in MROs, daily & weekly checks with airlines • EASA Form 1 issue in PART 145 workshop At AirInt Services, we strongly believe that, in a challenging environment where competitivity and performance are always more important, having the modern and adequate tools to perform your missions are key to success. This is why we are here. This is why we developed our softwares. And this is why we have several Airlines, MROs and OEMs trusting our solutions and daily using them to facilitate their maintenance activities.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 61
Want to be involved? Simply email scott.leslie@aircraftit.com for more information
www.aircraftIT.com
DIRECTORY
APSYS
ASQS (Advanced Safety and Quality Solutions)
ATP
Aviation InterTec Services
W: www.asqs.net T: +43 1 306 1234 E: sales@asqs.net
W: www.atp.com T: +1 415-330-9500 E: marketing@atp.com
W: www.aviationintertec.com T: +1 807-625-9260 E: info@aviationintertec.com
Location: France
Locations: ASQS GmbH, Vienna, Austria, ASQS Ltd., Bangkok, Thailand
Location: Brisbane, California; Toronto, Canada; Austin, Texas; and Bonita Springs, Florida
Locations: Canada, Malta
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • AMASIS, IBIS, Simfia and Simlog
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • IQSMS (Integrated Quality and Safety Management System) • Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) Service • The IQSMS Suite consists of a total of 10 modules, varying according to the operator. (Airlines, Business Jets, Helicopter, Airports, MROs...)
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • ChronicX • SpotLight • ATP Libraries • ATP Aviation Hub • Flightdocs
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • RAAS
W: www.apsys-airbus.com T: +33 (0) 5 61 30 99 00 E: gesine.varfis@apsys-airbus.com
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Consulting Services • Enterprise Risk Management • Digitalization and Analytics • Airline and MRO Excellence • Maintenance and Risk Management Solutions As an Airbus subsidiary APSYS serves customers worldwide in determining leading risk management standards in close cooperation with our customers. Deeply rooted in aerospace engineering, the company’s experts are involved throughout the entire lifecycle of an aircraft from design to in-service operations guaranteeing reliable and safe aircraft operations (Product Assurance & Safety). APSYS supports its customers in achieving highest security standards for their operational and Information Technology to reduce vulnerability, making sure that clients have state of the art tools and processes established to manage attacks and threats (Product Security). On behalf of customers, APSYS has defined and implemented processes and tools for controlling technical, human and operational risks. With more than 450 employees APSYS supports the aerospace industry, but also the defense, transportation and energy sectors.
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KEY BUSINESS SOFTWARE AREAS • Quality Management Module • Reporting Module • Risk Management Module • Document Distribution Module • Emergency Response Planning Module ASQS (Advanced Safety and Quality Solutions) is a global supplier of highly innovative QMS and SMS software for the aviation industry, supporting more than 200 large and small operators, including airlines, business jet and helicopter operators, groundhandling agents/FBOs, airports and maintenance organizations, in creating a safe and productive work environment. The company specializes in intuitive, integrated, web-based solutions with exceptional customer support. ASQS’s core product IQSMS allows clients to manage operational data 24/7 online and offline with a single integrated tool which significantly simplifies daily tasks. The easy handling of the software creates a positive reporting culture, enables comprehensive quality management and proactive risk management to maximize productivity, reduce operating costs, and optimize internal and external working procedures. IQSMS automates laborious processes like the submission of ECCAIRS or IDX compliant incident reports which, combined with a consolidated, up-to-date regulations database, ensures legal compliance with national and international requirements and standards.
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KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Maintenance Operations Solutions • Maintenance Tracking • Flight Operations • Reliability Tools • Aircraft Troubleshooting • Business Intelligence for Aircraft • Recurring Defect Analysis ATP is a global information services and software solutions company focused on making flying safer and more reliable. ATP Information Services is the general and business aviation industry’s source for aircraft technical publications and real-time regulatory information. ATP Software Solutions is the leading provider of maintenance tracking, flight operations, inventory management, repetitive defect analysis, and troubleshooting software. The company’s applications help reduce operating costs, improve aircraft reliability, and supports technical knowledge sharing and collaboration within the general and business aviation, military/defense, commercial aviation, and OEM industries. The company has deployed solutions for multiple Fortune 100 companies, supporting more than 75,000 aircraft maintenance professionals worldwide. As a global company, ATP has more than 7,500 customers in 137 countries, with nearly 50 years of experience in the information services and software industries.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 62
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Production Planning and Management • Inventory and Procurement • Inspection Document Management • Reliabiliity and Performance Analysis • Financial and Flight Operations Integration RAAS is an MRO and CAMO software system designed to meet the needs of mid-tier commercial fleet operators. Enabling modern, high-efficiency workflows in a powerful and straightforward package, RAAS is the best fit for midsize fleets and user groups. Scalable, intelligent and 100% browser-based, RAAS includes efficiency-creating features such as automated real time airframe time updating and exchange of aircraft next due items, electronic technical dispatch, MPD/MRB driven program management and check package creation, purchase order e-approval and e-signature, integration with finance/accounting for payables or inventory value management, and of course approved paperless and e-signature maintenance processes from the hangar floor to the cockpit. RAAS customers enjoy the benefits of a widely accessible and easy-to-use inventory management and maintenance support system that through continued use is able to reduce maintenance costs by increasing maintenance procedure efficiency, reducing held inventory, providing proof of quality for inspection escalations, and by directly reducing clerical manpower requirements. The quick deployment, ease of support, and low TCO inherent in cross-platform browserbased information systems coupled with high levels of integration, easy-to-use user interfaces, and many automated reporting and data analysis features make RAAS a leader in its field.
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DIRECTORY
The Boeing Company
CloudCARDS
Comply365
Conduce
W: www.boeing.com/supportandservices T: +1 206-655-2121 E: BoeingSupportandServices@Boeing.com
W: www.cloudcards.ie T: +353 (0) 61748767 E: sales@cloudcards.ie
W: www.conduce.net T: +44 333 888 4044 E: info@conduce.net
Location: Over 65 locations around the world
Location: Limerick, Ireland
W: www.comply365.com T: +1 (877) 366 2365 E: info@comply365.com
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Airplane Health Management • Business Consulting • Maintenance Performance Toolbox • Optimized Maintenance Program
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • CARDS (Civil Aviation Remote Delivery System) • AMS (Asset Management System)
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Technical Content Management • Vehicle Health Mana gement • Maintenance Optimization Consulting Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defense, space and security systems. Boeing Support and Services combines airplane design and manufacturing expertise with unique access to fleet-wide operational data to offer optimization solutions. With these offerings, Boeing addresses the evolving need for integration and optimization of data and information across the aviation ecosystem to empower smart decision-making. The portfolio includes services and solutions for flight operations, maintenance & engineering and procurement organizations to optimize the operational efficiency of airplanes and operations. Boeing has more than 250 customers for its optimization solutions. The portfolio draws on solutions from a family of Boeing companies: AerData, Inventory Locator Services and Jeppesen, serving operators of Boeing and non-Boeing airplanes.
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Aircraft Asset Management • Aircraft Delivery and Re-delivery Management • Aircraft Annual Inspection Management • Aircraft Project Management • Aircraft Technical Services CloudCARDS Ltd. an aircraft delivery and asset management software provider, formed in Ireland April 2013, has an experienced team of aviation experts working together to seamlessly deliver its exceptional software products to both Airlines and Leasing Companies around the globe. The long-term objective in CloudCARDS Ltd. is to dramatically reduce the cost of aircraft asset management and improve the oversight the owner and operator has on the asset. CARDS® — Civil Aircraft Remote Delivery System is a software platform designed to financially manage the asset and fully project manage the technical review, aircraft physical & records audit. AMS — Asset Management System is designed to manage the day-to-day management of the asset including utilization, maintenance reserves, alerts, forecasting, invoicing and reporting. All CloudCARDS Ltd. products are securely built using the latest cloud based technology. After all, your aircraft operate in the clouds, so why not manage them there too?
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Location: USA
Location: Nuneaton, Warwickshire
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • ProAuthor (XML-Based Authoring Solution) • Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) • Digital Briefing • Document & Communication Manager • Training Solution (LMS Learning Manager)
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • eTechLog8 • eCabinLog8 • eTraining8 • eCentral8
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • XML-Based Authoring Solution (ProAuthor) • Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) • Digital Briefing Flight Release • Document Mgmt. and Distribution Platform • Targeted Distribution w/ Compliance Tracking Comply365 delivers secure, cloud-based solutions, focusing on Authoring, EFB and Digital Briefing Solutions, as well as Targeted Distribution of Mobile Manuals.
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Electronic Tech Log • Cabin Log • Document Viewer Conduce specializes in producing mobile applications for the aviation industry, writing native Win8/10 and IOS tablet “Touch” solutions and integrating these with responsive modern connected websites. The current flagship product eTechLog8 enables an airline to eliminate the traditional paper based tech log/cabin log and deferred defect books and is currently in differing stages of contract, trial & acceptance with various airlines. Several NAA’s are also now involved with respect to monitoring these projects, enabling the necessary approval for the eventual roll out of paperless tech log systems with multiple EASA approved airline fleets.
The Authoring Solution, features ProAuthor: the aviation industry’s first and only XML-based solution for authoring, revising and distributing publications. Comply365’s proven Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) solution lets crews access mission-critical information throughout each phase of flight. Digital Briefing helps turn planes faster for more on-time departures with instant feedback to dispatchers when the flight crew accepts a release and signs Fit for Duty. Comply365’s full-featured Document Management and Targeted Distribution Platform boosts productivity by delivering any type of manual or document directly to any mobile device or stationary workstation.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 63
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DIRECTORY
CrossConsense
EmpowerMX
eTT Aviation
EXSYN Aviation Solutions
W: www.ettaviation.com T: +1 208-424-9424 E: info@ettaviation.com
W: www.exsyn.com T: 0031-20-760 8200 E: hello@exsyn.com
Location: Frankfurt Germany; Heusenstamm Germany
W: www.empowermx.com T: +1 866-498-3702 E: info@empowermx.com Location: Frisco TX, USA
Locations: Boise, ID, USA
Location: Amsterdam
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Aicraft Fleet View • ACSIS
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • FleetCycle® Execution Suite — MRO Manager (FCXM)
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • MISA: Complete Aviation Management Information System
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Avilytics, TITAN
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Support • Consulting • Business Intelligence solutions • App and dashboard development
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • FleetCycle® Execution Suite: Production Manager (FXPM), MRO Manager (FCXM) and Line Manager (FCXL) • Maintenance Program Manager (FCMPM), Planning Manager (FCPM), Reliability Manager (FCRM), Material Manager (FCMM), and Maintenance Intelligence (FCMI), Electronic LogBook (FCELB) • Coming Soon: FleetCycle® Executive Suite — Shop Manager (FCXS))
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Accounting • Maintenance • Inventory Management • Purchasing • Human Resources/Payroll
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Aviation Analytics solution • Aircraft Reliability Management solution • Predictive Maintenance solution • Robotic Process Automation • Data Migration • Consulting Service
The Management Information System for Aviation (MISA), is a fully integrated, and expertly supported product that provides extensive tools for an aviation company to manage all aspects of their business, including accounting, maintenance, inventory management, purchasing, flight operations, employee training, human resources, payroll, labor collection, government contracting, and flight school management.
EXSYN Aviation Solutions is specialized in the field of aircraft data, analytics & processing and provides user-friendly and innovative aviation IT solutions for aircraft reliability management and predictive maintenance. Also offered are data processing and managed services for data migration, interface design and software implementation management. They also build customized solutions and software tools if off-the-shelf products do not meet a customer’s needs.
It is a common practice for aviation companies to use multiple applications to manage their operations. Often, such applications have limited interfaces necessitating duplicate data entry — a recipe for inducing errors and decreasing efficiency. And even when interfaces exist, they can be difficult to manage and require resources to build, maintain, and support them.
Avilytics is EXSYN’s Predictive Maintenance, Aircraft Reliability, and Engineering & Maintenance KPI Solution, reducing AOG’s through informed decision making to prevent delays, cancellations and save costs.
W: www.crossconsense.com T: +49 69 4035 7600 E: contact@crossconsense.de
CrossConsense’s portfolio stretches from AMOS Support, BI-Management, Data Migration and Hosting to the products Aircraft Fleet View (progressive web app for up-to-date fleet status) and ACSIS (tool for predictive maintenance). AMOS Support: CrossConsense has a long tradition in providing support for AMOS with one single point of contact for 1st and 2nd level. CrossConsense realizes well-planned and perfectly organized data migration projects for airline customers; plus offers Reporting and Business Intelligence Analytics for AMOS customers. Aircraft Fleet View is a user-friendly Progressive Web App (PWA) developed by CrossConsense that gives you an always up-to-date view on your airline’s fleet status. It indicates AOGs, delays and other important information. It provides the right level of detail to be useful but not crowded with information. ACSIS is a powerful software tool developed to assist any airline, aircraft operator, MRO facility and OEM to avoid AOGs, delays and turnbacks, as well as improve aircraft utilization, and enhance safety. ACSIS integrates with any MRO / M&E Software solution to deliver better insights into aircraft health and potential future problems to be dealt with during scheduled maintenance.
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EmpowerMX is an aviation industry-recognized software development/consulting-services business. We are purely focused on empowering our customers with the ability to decrease the costs of making air travel safer by equipping their decision makers with reliable, real-time/globally available intelligence for minimizing maintenance turn times/ OpEx while maximizing airworthiness/profits. FCXM allows MROs, airlines, and lessors to effectively control the entire maintenance lifecycle or only the portions for which they are responsible. Airlines can jointly manage their outsourced and insourced activites like engineering reliability, QA and maintenance programs at the line, heavy and shop levels with an expected reduction in cycle times and increase in labor productivity on the magnitude of 16-30 percent. Third-party MROs can run their entire operation from bidding through contracting to invoicing.
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MISA provides the solution for these issues by standardizing, streamlining, and integrating business processes across all the various departments and functional areas within the company; and this integration improves the bottom line while providing employees a user-friendly and consistent application experience across the whole organization and access to real-time, comprehensive, and relevant information from a single system rather than from disparate sources. MISA boasts impressive customer loyalty as evidenced by a number of aviation companies who have used MISA as their ERP system for more than two decades.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 64
TITAN is a source independent data processing solution for data migration purposes during an MRO software implementation and for aircraft phase-in & phase-out. Because of its unique technological framework TITAN eliminates most human intervention during migration of aircraft airworthiness & maintenance data and allows repetitive usage to directly migrate fleets between MRO software systems.
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DIRECTORY
Flatirons Solutions
Gamit
IDMR Solutions
IFS
W: www.flatironssolutions.com T: +1.303.627.6535 E: info@flatironssolutions.com
W: www.gamit.co.uk T: +44 1279 818800 E: roam@gamit.co.uk
W: www.IDMR-Solutions.com T: +1-347-565-4367 E: sales@IDMR-Solutions.com
Locations: Europe, Asia, USA, Middle East
Location: London UK (HQ), Basel Switzerland, Beirut Lebanon
Location: New York/Tel Aviv
W: www.ifs.com T: + 613-576-2480 E: AndInfo@ifsworld.com
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED CORENA Suite
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • ROAM — Online digital airworthiness records archive and records complance manager. • RDOC — ROAM Document OCR & Classification engine, through the use of configurable algorythems RDOC can recorgnise your documents easily, accuratly and fast.
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • InForm
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • IFS Cloud, IFS Maintenix
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Technical Publication • Engineering Orders • Task Cards • Planning • Maintenance Programs
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Fleet and Asset Management • Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (incl line, heavy, complex assembly, component repair) • 3rd-party MRO bidding, quoting, invoicing, product lifecycle management, enterprise operational intelligence
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Content Management System (CMS) • Interactive Electronic Technical Publisher (IETP) • Maintenance & Engineering • Flight Operations • Tablet Solutions & Mobility Flatirons provides consulting, technology, and outsourcing for content lifecycle management (CLM). For more than 20 years, we have served global Fortune 1000 customers in aerospace, automotive, electronics, financial services, government, healthcare, and publishing. Our customer engagements help organizations efficiently deliver the right information, at the right time, to the right people by leveraging structured content and digital media — Turning Content into Knowledge®. The CORENA Suite by Flatirons is the leading content lifecycle management (CLM) solution developed specifically for organizations that rely on missioncritical data to design, manufacture, operate, or maintain complex assets over their product and service lifecycles as well as across multi-echelon business networks. For more than 25 years, the world’s leading airlines, aerospace manufacturers, OEMs, and defense organizations have relied on the CORENA product suite to create, manage, and deliver large volumes of technical information throughout its lifecycle. Today, CORENA customers rely on the CORENA suite to modernize their IT infrastructures, improve customer satisfaction, and maintain their competitive advantage.
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KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Airworthiness records archive • Status Builder • Document Indexing • Communication module • Outsourcing
IDMR is a global provider of easy to use and all encompassing Technical Documentation Management Solutions which have been designed exclusively for Fleet operators, MRO providers and OEM organizations. IDMR’s Technical Documentation Management Solutions have proven success in increasing operational performance and decreasing operational cost while ensuring airworthiness, safety and regulatory compliance.
Gamit was founded in 1990 to provide technical support for operators, MRO’s and leasing companies, including on spare parts, technical support, records auditing, on site representation, and technical consultancy. Through years of experience, Gamit developed ROAM, airworthiness records management solution and an online enterprise solution that is more than scanning a document into a PDF and storing on the company server. It uses advanced technologies to deliver an aviation specific document management solution. ROAM is highly scalable making it beneficial for an engineering team looking after 5 or 500 aircraft. One of the key benefits is allowing users to have full access to an entire library of records from birth, online. This means its users can simply navigate and identify key documents and prepare an aircraft for sale, lease or lease redelivery. The user can package up records quickly and easily, either themselves, or outsourcing the task to the ROAM support team.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 65
Locations: 60+ Worldwide
IFS is a globally recognized provider of software solutions for global aerospace & defense (A&D), including airlines and fleet operators, A&D manufacturers, defense in-service support and independent MROs. IFS’s solutions support project and program-centric manufacturing; a complete spectrum of maintenance management capabilities for sea, land and air assets, from heavy, complex, and component MRO, to line maintenance or at-platform/asset support; as well as all types of procurement models. IFS’s innovative enterprise solutions are designed for the regulated A&D industry and markets where manufacturing, MRO, project and service functionality are business- and operationally-critical whilst also supporting global, core enterprise capabilities for managing finance, inventory and human resources. With flexible, modular and enterprise breadth, IFS solutions empower A&D organizations to quickly adapt and manage change whilst delivering bottom-line value, increasing efficiencies and cost savings, and safeguarding compliance. IFS customers include BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, SAAB, GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, HAL, Emirates, LATAM, Qantas, China Airlines, Air France-KLM, and Southwest Airlines.
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DIRECTORY
Jetraxx
W: www.jetraxx.com T: +1 (214) 214 5180 E: info@jetraxx.com Location: Dallas, Texas
Lufthansa Industry Solutions
W: www.lufthansa-industry-solutions.com T: +49 40 5070 30000 E: marketing.sales@lhind.dlh.de
MRX Systems
QOCO Systems
W: www.mrxsys.com E: contact@mrxsys.com
W: www.qoco.aero T: +358 10 501 4001 E: hello@qoco.aero
Location: Luxembourg/Monaco
Location: Germany, Switzerland, USA
NAME OF PRODUCTS MARKETED Asset Management and MRO Management Number of Modules: 4
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • DocManage Product Suite, DocSurf Mobile, EFFOM, DocCreate
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Engine Asset Management • Digital Lease Return • Lease Return Project Management • Digital MRO • Document Management/Repository
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • IT Solutions and Process • Consulting for MRO • Electronic Flight Operation Manuals • Airline Job Card Content Management • Predictive Analytics and Maintenance • RFID
Maximize the value of your aviation assets by simplifying and automating asset management. For both MROs and Engine lessors, Jetraxx’s asset management solutions simplify compliance, standardize data, and streamline processes, with up-to-the-minute views into your entire portfolio anytime, anywhere. Record keeping for aviation assets has long been time-consuming, cumbersome, and inconsistent. Lease returns were stressful for everyone involved, with disagreements about documentation and responsibilities lengthening the process. Whether you are managing a single asset or a fleet, Jetraxx can simplify and streamline all aspects of records management — saving you both time and money. Jetraxx is your behind-the-scenes partner, providing technical records assistance and portal-based records management, customized with your brand’s look and feel. With customizable workflows and auto-generated data packs, Jetraxx’s cloud-based, proprietary records management system automates document acceptance, approval, and rejection to ensure data integrity and compliance with your process. MROs can benefit from Jextraxx’s proven digital work order management system, which eliminates burdensome paper handling, automates workflows, and provides real-time updates to clients. The streamlined system is convenient for clients and ensures clear communication from the outset.
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Lufthansa Industry Solutions is an IT service company for process consulting and system integration. This wholly-owned subsidiary of Lufthansa Group supports its customers with the digital transformation of their company. Its customer base includes both companies within Lufthansa Group as well as more than 150 companies in various other industries. The products EFOM and DocSurf Mobile were developed together with Lufthansa Airlines based on 15 years of common experience and excellence in electronic flight operations manuals and processes to fulfill both current and future requirements. EFOM — A manufacturer independent Content Management System. Functionally mature and based on 17 years of experience, EFOM makes it possible to fulfill FlightOps requirements, e.g. expandable for new publishing backends; flexible to integrate new documents; open for customized enhancements or to integrate business processes such as Compliance Management. DocSurf Mobile — A Library Viewer for MRO and FlightsOps documents is available as a native iOS app or Windows application. The revision service allows change lists to be checked and content to be compared with a previous version. Navigation is intuitive and includes a fast and easy search. A user independent management of favorites and notes is provided, keeping this information revision safe and available.
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Location: Finland
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Blue EYE, Blue MRO, Blue STOK
NAME OF PRODUCTS MARKETED MROTools.io, EngineData.io, OpsMetrics.io
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Quotation & Invoicing • Project Management & Reporting • Work Report Automatic Generation • eJobCard iPad App • Supply Chain Management
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Intelligent maintenance • Data management and integrations • Lean operations • Process consulting • SaaS solutions
The MRX Systems software solution is a fully-integrated digital platform enabling aviation professionals to access real-time data and take control over their fleet and their operations.
QOCO Systems Ltd helps the aviation industry to succeed in the changing world by creating new ways to work, to communicate, and to utilize data, having been a trusted partner of airlines, MROs, and aircraft OEMs for over ten years.
Thanks to more than 10 years of customer feedback and perpetual development, MRX Systems brings a complete, secure and scalable solution to challenges faced by operators, CAMOs and MROs. The system is divided into three modules, each of them designed to meet the specific operational needs of their users. Blue MRO — designed for MRO management, this module enables you to digitalize maintenance process from issuing quotations, assigning jobs to technicians, reporting repairs and findings until compiling all related paperwork into one exhaustive and automatically-generated full work report. Multi-User, 100% paperless, always up-to-date, and Cloud based, all data is accessible at any time worldwide enhancing operation and maintenance efficiency
QOCO Systems’ solutions provide significant improvements to the industry’s complex processes. They enable our customers to achieve more by doing less and to realize time-savings in labour-intensive tasks. They also bring visibility to customers’ operations to support decision-making based on real-time information. Solutions offered include the following SaaS solutions: MROTools.io for tool management in aircraft maintenance, EngineData.io for intelligent integrations between collaborating players in aviation, and OpsMetrics.io for fully transparent collaborative decision making. QOCO also provides a wide range of consulting services for customers’ unique needs in the areas of digitalization, process improvement, data analytics, and more. All this is realized by the business’s team of professionals with expertise in aviation and software development. Agility and customer-centricity is built into QOCO’s way of working, which allows them to quickly and cost-efficiently deliver solutions that fulfill the customer’s real needs.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 66
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DIRECTORY
NVable
Ramco Systems
ROTA.technology Inc.
Rusada
W: www.nvable.com T: +44 141 280 0050 E: contact@nvable.com
W: www.ramco.com/aviation-suite/ T: +91 44 2235 4510 E: contact@ramco.com
W: rota.technology T: +1 321 710 7682(ROTA) E: info@rota.technology
W: www.rusada.com T: 03333 440730 E: information@rusada.com
Location: 21 offices worldwide
Location: Melbourne, FL USA and global
Location: Switzerland, USA, UK, UAE, India, Singapore, Australia
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Ramco Aviation M&E Solution, Ramco Aviation MRO Solution, Ramco Anywhere Apps, Ramco flyMORE
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Consulting, MXF Software, PDS(Process Development System) and custom applications
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Envision
Location: Glasgow, UK
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • ConNVerge for Aviation KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Electronic Techlog • Electronic Forms (Assessments) • Document Management • Operational Analysis • Station Operational Compliance The concept behind our CoNVerge platform is simple. We believe that businesses should have the flexibility to easily innovate and add new applications to their toolbox, without being stifled by legacy technology or a single technology brand. CoNVerge is all about minimising risk, fuss and capital costs and maximising efficiency. Provided as a service, it combines a hosted environment and web portal with mobile applications and data interfaces to virtually any system. The platform is easily integrated into your existing business systems and brings together the best tools to handle data acquisition and data analysis — all on scalable infrastructure. Best of all, we even take the day-to-day management off your hands. Our CoNVerge platform is blazing a trail in the aviation sector. In a hi-tech industry, where the stakes are even higher, long-standing clients such as British Airways Cityflyer know they can rely on NVable and our custom-designed software to make things simple, safer, more secure and streamlined. We provide airlines with technology solutions that reduce effort, improve processes and produce useful information, with one simple goal — to change things for the better. Bring everything together and do IT better when you bring onboard CoNVerge and NVable.
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KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Maintenance & Engineering • Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul • Mobility Solutions Ramco Systems offers Aviation Maintenance solutions on premise and on cloud, with multi-tenant capability and nextgen mobility for Airlines, Heli-Operators, MROs and Charter operations. Its comprehensive scope spans the spectrum of organizational needs, including Finance, HCM, Manufacturing, Planning and Optimization, in one integrated platform. Ramco Aviation’s latest Next-Gen digital technologies include: Mobility Solutions: Ramco’s next-gen mobility solutions for maintenance operations are available through an app ecosystem wherein everybody involved can seamlessly execute critical operations on the go, from anywhere, anytime; The BOTS Revolution: Ramco intelligent CHATBOTS deliver parts data, manage AOGs, and perform daily admin tasks for a more personalized and immersive ERP experience; HyperConnected Ecosystem: B2B integrations with AeroXchange, Gains, Logistics providers and OEMs bringing Suppliers, Customers and Logistics providers together on ONE platform
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • MRO IT Software Implementations • MRO IT Software Upgrades • MRO IT Software Support/Managed Services • MX Long Range Planning • MRO IT Custom Software Development With MRO systems projects and support spanning both the military and commercial markets ROTA brings proven experience to all sides of aviation. Our team has been embedded for years in the business functions we support. In both military and commercial. Specializing in system implementations and upgrades ROTA brings deep knowledge of aviation business processes, integrated into custom built software, to provide not only all testing documentation but also leave customers with a full manual of SOPs moving forward. Aside from upgrades ROTA has completed a number of data projects from cleaning up aircraft configuration to system security overhauls. After these upgrades or projects, training and ongoing admin support can be provided for any MRO IT needs.
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Fleet Management • Base Maintenance • Line Maintenance • Flight Operations • Materials Management Rusada develops ENVISION - an industry leading MRO and Flight Operations solution. With over 100 customers worldwide and a combined fleet of 2,000 fixed wing and rotary aircraft, ENVISION is used by aircraft operators and MRO’s to successfully manage their operations. The latest version of ENVISION is web-based and deviceagnostic with an intuitive and user-friendly interface. Modules, which can be purchased individually or as part of an integrated solution, include: Fleet Management, Base Management, Line Maintenance, Component Maintenance, Materials Management, Financial Management, Resource Management, Quality & Safety Management and Flight Operations.
Ramco Series 5 reduces Turn Around Time (TAT) while increasing operational performance and compliance through user-friendly interfaces. Ramco has always been an innovator in maintenance IT — enabling clients to focus more on business-critical activities, while the solution processes transactions and decision support, based on intelligent rules. Powering 4000+ aircraft and 21,000+ end-users, Ramco is used by more than 75 operators world-wide.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 67
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DIRECTORY
Seabury Solutions
Swiss Aviation Software
TRAX
TrustFlight
W: www.seaburysolutions.com T: +353 61 749 010 E: mkt@seaburysolutions.com
W: www.swiss-as.com T: +41 61 582 72 94 E: marketing@swiss-as.com
W: www.trax.aero T: +1 305.662.7400 E: sales@trax.aero
Location: Ireland; Argentina
Location: Basel, Switzerland; Miami, FL, USA; Singapore
Location: Miami, FL, USA; West Sussex, UK; Tokyo, Japan; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
W: www.trustflight.io T: 44 (0) 330 229 0219 E: info@trustflight.io
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Alkym, EPAS, eAuthority
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • AMOS
NAME OF PRODUCTS MARKETED
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Technical Operations • CAMO • MRO • Performance Analytics • Regulator Applications
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Material Management • Engineering • Planning • Production • Maintenance Control
Seabury Solutions is a leading global aviation software development and consultancy company. It was established in 2002 and forms part of the Seabury Group. Seabury Solutions has built a reputation in that time as the vendor who delivers cost effective world class aviation management software. The integrated product range includes solutions for Airlines, MRO Organizations, Aviation Regulators. Enterprise Performance Analytics Systems (EPAS) includes models used for Maintenance Analytics, Contracts and Invoicing, Flight Profitability, Budget Planning, Fuel Planning, Market Analytics and Sales / Distribution Analytics.
Swiss AviationSoftware unites over 30 years of IT experience with profound MRO expertise and offers its customers the functionally unsurpassed and technologically state-of-theart maintenance system AMOS. AMOS is a comprehensive, fully-integrated software package that successfully manages the maintenance, engineering and logistics requirements of modern airlines and MRO providers by fulfilling demanding airworthiness standards. Today, more than 180 customers worldwide steer their maintenance activities with AMOS, which makes AMOS one of the industry-leading MRO software systems worldwide.
With our software products serving over 80 customers in 35 countries globally they are suitable for the largest to small / medium sized operations. Alkym Management and Control System for Aircraft Maintenance is a modular solution where each organization can select which tools meet their requirements. This proven solution brings the top functionality in market leading implementation time scales. Typically, the average time to GO LIVE is between 8 and 15 weeks. With 24 / 7 professional support services to make sure your teams are getting the best from our systems Seabury Solutions should be on every short listing to compare the value proposition against the market.
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• eMRO • eMobility KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Engineering & Planning • Production & Shop • Technical Records & Reliability • TRAXDoc Document Control • Supply Chain Management • E-enabled Aircraft Capabilities • Aircraft Mobility apps • Maintenance Mobility apps • Paperless Maintenance • Warehouse Mobility apps TRAX is the global leader in the aviation industry for MRO ERP software, with over 200 airlines and MROs using their products. TRAX has the most advanced maintenance software solutions available for airlines and MROs worldwide with fleets consisting of all types of aircraft. TRAX eMRO is a completely integrated product, in addition, the eMobility suite offers a range of iOS apps to provide mobile accessibility. Organizational efficiency gains can be substantial when using TRAX eMRO and eMobility, and ROI is quickly realized. TRAX maintains its advantage over the competition by developing software that works for customers through modern technology, world class support and strong customer relationships.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 68
Location: Leamington Spa, UK; Edinburgh, UK; Luton, UK; St Helier, Jersey
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Tech Log, Task Cards • Digital Logbook • CAMO (service) • Aircraft Registry (service) KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Aircraft log books • Aircraft maintenance task cards • Digital and paperless working • CAMO support • Aircraft Registry support From inception, TrustFlight has been ingrained in the aviation industry. Founded by two commercial pilots with a proven track record at the intersection of technology and business, the business has grown considerably and with stability, having recently celebrated the opening of a fourth office. Throughout, TrustFlight gained an incredible team with backgrounds spanning different areas of aviation and technology, ensuring a solid presence in the industry. Now offering a range of products and services within the sector, TrustFlight helps to remove costly paperwork and associated errors, preserve aircraft value, and increase efficiency and safety in aircraft operations. Five values shape TrustFlight’s culture, guide the business’s work and the way it grows. Integrity Transparent and open: offering trust to partners and assuming it from them. Responsibility Owning the work they do and taking responsibilty for it: striving to make it the best possible. Leadership Leading from within: providing support for the team to do incredible work and drive the industry forwards. Innovation Products are crafted for the future needs of the industry, going beyond what exists in the market. Excellence Every one of TrustFlight’s values contributes towards the excellence in their products.
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DIRECTORY
AIRCRAFT IT Ultramain
Vistair Systems
Yonder
W: www.ultramain.com T: +1.505.828.9000 E: sales@ultramain.com
W: www.vistair.com T: 01454 550663 E: info@vistair.com
W: www.yonder.info T: +41 43 215 27 94 E: contact@yonder.info
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Location: United Kingdom
Location: Zurich, Switzerland
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • ULTRAMAIN® v9™ M&E / MRO • ULTRAMAIN Mobile Mechanic™ • ULTRAMAIN Mobile Inventory™ • ULTRAMAIN ELB™ • ULTRAMAIN M&E / MRO: 31 modules including: Configuration Management; Line/Base Mx Planning; Line/ Base Mx Scheduling; GATe; Quality Assurance; Asset Management
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • DocuNet, CrewNet, SafetyNet, QualityNet, RiskNet
NAME OF PRODUCT MARKETED • Yonder Mind
KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Maintenance & Engineering • MRO • Military Maintenance • Maintenance Planning & Scheduling • Paperless Customer Care on Mobile Devices • Electronic Technical Logbook Ultramain Systems, Inc. develops M&E / MRO and ELB software for the aviation industry and is the only aviation software provider with customers running full, end-to-end paperless operations from the cockpit to the ground. ULTRAMAIN v9, featuring Mobile Mechanic and Mobile Inventory enables real-time paperless data collection for the full maintenance and inventory process. Combine ULTRAMAIN v9 with ULTRAMAIN ELB, the easy-to-use electronic logbook, and the entire maintenance process becomes paperless. Contact us to learn what you need to equip your organization with customer mobile devices and see why elite aviation customers around the world are choosing ULTRAMAIN to reduce costs and increase aircraft up time.
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KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Aviation Document Management Solution • Aviation Safety Management Software • Aviation Quality Management Solution • Crew Notices and Bulletins Software Vistair provides document, safety and quality management technology solutions to support the delivery of improved safety, compliance, and operational efficiency that results in significant commercial savings to airline organisations. Combining technology, development delivery, Vistair’s solutions provide both airlines and ground operations with an approach that helps demonstrate a clear link between increased reporting and a change in procedures and behaviours, to drive a safer organization Document Management: DocuNet™ is a powerful document management and distribution solution, capable of delivering a complete operational library of all mission-critical content across multiple platforms and fleets. It provides a process for airlines to control the intellectual content of manuals, handling processes relating to data, publication and delivery, enabling airlines to focus on core business operations. Safety/Quality Management: SafetyNet™ is an aviation reporting system and investigation solution that drives real change in the management of safety-related occurrences. It is currently deployed by a number of global airlines including Delta and also counts the military among its user base. Complementing this is RiskNet™ an advanced, change and aviation risk management solution that provides hazard identification. Integrating with both, QualityNet™ is a comprehensive aviation compliance software that enables Quality Managers to manage audit schedules, checklists and non-compliances through an intuitive interface. Yonder
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KEY BUSINESS/SOFTWARE AREAS • Content Management System • Workflow-based Content Distribution • Compliance Tracking • Content-based Learning Stay in control of your content and bring reliable, rolespecific information to frontline employees — with one fully customizable content management solution. Yonder Mind is an easy-to-use content management solution designed specifically for controlled information like operation manuals, guidelines, rules, or regulations. Our unique approach allows users to work with dynamic content instead of static documents. Dynamic content will display the right information at the right time, depending on the user profile and on the context of use. A powerful search function further improves end-user satisfaction. Yonder Mind brings operational documentation and manufacturer manuals together in one solution. Pilots work with the easy to use YM Offline App and enjoy role-specific revision updates instead of having to go through hundreds of revised pages. Editors create and enhance content in the YM Editor while revisions become manageable again thanks to the fully integrated YM Workflow. Company guides (e.g. Winter Ops Guide) can be created without having to worry about duplicates anymore since information is only contained once in Yonder Mind. And never miss a change in regulation again thanks to our IQSMS Connector. We have over 15 years of experience with electronic documentation in aviation that we can leverage to our customers’ benefit. Our team has a diverse background ranging from a former EFB administrator for a large international airline to a long-haul captain knowing, from his own experience, what crews need.
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AIRCRAFT IT MRO • MARCH-APRIL 2021 • 69
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