The flying season is here, which means you can touch the skies again with your aircraft or take passengers for a ride. While it makes sense to be excited to fly again, we strongly recommend getting your plane out of the hangar and spending time on essential inspections and maintenance.
Assuming your plane has been resting inside the hangar for months, the components can wear down, the tires may deflate, and the paint job can deteriorate. A thorough inspection will allow you to understand which aspects of your plane can be handled by you and which ones need professional repair.
For example, you may be able to paint your airplane by yourself, but you may need to call an aviation mechanic to repair the damaged fuselage. Here are some of the most important aircraft maintenance tips you should know about.
Clean the Plane Properly
It doesn’t make sense to clean your plane during winters when it’s snowing heavily. March and April are the best months to take your plane out of hibernation and clean it thoroughly. Remember that cleaning your airplane isn’t about enhancing its looks; you will encounter several issues – functional and cosmetic that may need to be addressed.
Here are a few areas to clean:
- The engine.
- The landing gear.
- Windows and windshields.
- Exterior lights.
Besides, make sure you clean the aircraft upholstery fabric as you will spend most of the time sitting down.
Check All the Systems
This is probably the most important part of the maintenance process as it will ensure everyone’s safety. Start by checking the engine and ensuring that it contains sufficient levels of aviation oil, then move on to the fuel system, landing gear, brakes, and tires. If you have any doubts or questions about these systems, it is best to consult a professional aircraft mechanic.
After that, move on to the plane’s interior and check all the electrical systems, emergency equipment, and gadgets. Also, make sure you test the inflight entertainment system and the air conditioning to ensure they are working properly.
Inspect the Plane’s Exterior
Take some time to inspect the fuselage, wings, and tail for cracks or damage. These areas are susceptible to wear and tear and can cause serious problems if not repaired in time. Also, check the plane’s paint job and look for any chips or scratches. If you find any, make sure you fix them as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Replace Worn Out Parts
This includes components like worn-out tires, cracked windshields, and damaged upholstery. It is also a good idea to carry spare parts with you for an emergency.
Check the Weather Conditions
If the forecast predicts heavy thunderstorms or strong winds, it is best to wait for the weather to clear up before starting any work on the aircraft.
Get a pre-flight Checkup
After you have completed all the necessary maintenance and inspections, doing a pre-flight checkup will ensure that your plane is ready for take-off. You also may also spot any problems that you missed in the previous steps.
A preflight checkup includes a visual inspection of the aircraft and all its systems. You should also test all the gadgets and equipment to ensure they are working properly.
Keep the Plane in a Hangar
This will protect the plane from bad weather and prevent it from being damaged. However, if you don’t have a hangar, you can use a tarp or cover to protect your plane from harsh weather elements.
Final Word
Maintaining your aircraft after several months of hibernation requires a structured approach. By following these tips, you can rest assured that your aircraft is ready for take-off without any glitches. Do you have any questions regarding your aircraft’s maintenance? Ask us in the comments!
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