Implementation of Repair Capability for Airbus A32S External Lights

Abstract

This final thesis was conducted for Finnair Technical Services Ltd as a project to perform a capability study and implementation of a component repair shop for aircraft external lights. Way in the past, Finnair had a capability to perform external light repairs within the company, but later on that operation was outsourced. After several years of outsourcing, the company made a re-evaluation and decided to backsource the capability. This was due to end of a contract period with the overhauling company, as well as organizational changes at Finnair impacted by Covid-19 pandemic. Backsourcing was estimated to be more beneficial, considering cost efficiency of the process and workload assurance for Finnair employees. The theoretical part of this thesis introduces the concept of insourcing and outsourcing and compares the benefits and risks of these activities. The second theory section presents a spare part stock calculation method, that can be utilized for inventory optimization in aircraft maintenance operations. The thesis project itself was very practical and the main objective was to implement a well functioning repair shop for the aircraft external lights. That included research and procurement of the required spare parts, tools and materials, design and manufacturing of test equipment, organization of workshop space, compilation of documentation and training of personnel. As an outcome of this project, a functional repair shop for the external lights was implemented at Finnair premises and the company is no longer dependent on an outside maintenance provider considering these component repairs.