Preventive vs Corrective Maintenance: Key Differences in Aircraft Maintenance
Preventive vs Corrective Maintenance: Key Differences Explained
Aircraft maintenance is broadly classified into preventive and corrective maintenance. Both are crucial for ensuring airworthiness, safety, and operational reliability.
Comparison Table: Preventive vs Corrective Maintenance
| Aspect | Preventive Maintenance | Corrective Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Prevent failures before they occur | Repair or replace failed components |
| Timing | Performed at scheduled intervals (time, flight hours, or cycles) | Performed after a fault or malfunction is detected |
| Approach | Proactive / planned | Reactive / unplanned |
| Examples | Replacing filters, lubricating moving parts, scheduled inspections | Fixing a faulty hydraulic pump, replacing failed avionics or sensors |
| Objective | Maintain continuous airworthiness and reliability | Restore airworthiness after failure |
| Impact on Operations | Minimal disruption if scheduled properly | Can cause flight delays or aircraft downtime |
Summary
In aviation, preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance complement each other. While preventive maintenance reduces the likelihood of failures, corrective maintenance ensures faults are fixed promptly when they occur. Together, they ensure aircraft remain safe, reliable, and compliant with regulatory standards.
 |
| Preventive maintenance prevents failures, while corrective maintenance repairs faults after they occur |
References
- FAA – Aviation Maintenance Handbook
- EASA Part-M & Part-145 Regulations
- Aircraft Maintenance Manuals (AMM)
- ICAO Annex 6 – Operation of Aircraft
Published by AHA Apex Wing – Aviation Knowledge Hub
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