An Optimization Approach for Aircraft Sparing

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Abstract

Abstract
The objective of this paper is to establish an optimum recommended spare list of aircraft
components. The criteria of selecting a spare item for purchase are based on its ability to
improve the aircraft operational availability. Marginal analysis is used to sort the spares such
that optimum budget utilization is achieved. A mathematical model for aircraft operational
availability is derived through the analysis of a typical aircraft operation and maintenance
concept. A complex queuing network of aircraft operation and maintenance is simplified to
help in deriving the mathematical model for aircraft operational availability. This approach is
developed to support the decision making process during the provisioning of aircraft spares. A
typical example and its result analysis are given. Also, a complete user-friendly package is
developed and implemented using Visual Basic 6.

Keywords