Identification of delay factors in C-130 aircraft overhaul and finding solutions through data analysis

C-130 aircraft is one of the most reliable military cargo aircraft¹². Its reliability makes it more lucrative for military users all around the world. It forms the backbone for tactical and transportation operations. To keep the transport aircraft fly worthy, aviation industry follows a stringent scheduled inspection program. Amongst the various scheduled programs the most comprehensive and costly is the overhauling of aircraft. It is known as “Programmed Depot Maintenance” (PDM). Being the major inspection of aircraft, the down time of aircraft becomes more crucial in maintaining the serviceability of the fleet. The lengthy inspection package requires extensive working to manage the time schedule and produce the aircraft in time. The defects for four different C-130 aircraft for which the PDM inspection got delayed have been analyzed in this research: and the findings have been established from comparative analysis of the defects. The findings are considered reasonably important for such maintenance managers and C-130 aircraft operators. It may also be used for formulation of spares package and reducing the delays caused due to long lead-time for the required spares.