Fastlane Dramatically Shrinks TFE731 MPI, CZI Turn Times

When it comes to turn times for TFE731 Major Periodic Inspections (MPI) and Core Zone Inspections (CZI), the industry isn’t keeping up with customer expectations. A recent study surveying 284 maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) customers showed an MPI takes three days longer than expected and a CZI takes nearly a week longer. The additional time results in extra operating costs for customers, making the inspections not only too long, but also costly.

To save operators time and money, StandardAero has dramatically reduced turn times for TFE731 CZI and MPI with its new Fastlane process. More than 50 percent faster than the industry average of 25 to 30 days, Fastlane compresses a CZI down to just 14 days. It reduces shop time for an MPI from 12 days to just five.

“StandardAero has reduced our TFE731 CZI and MPI turn times not just below the industry standard but beyond operator’s expectations,” said Peter VanDolzer, engine services manager at StandardAero’s Houston service center.

The speed of Fastlane enables a CZI to be combined with an airframe inspection to avoid costs such as extra engine removal and reinstallation, which can cost a Hawker 800XP operator $8,088 plus $625 in materials per engine.

From a combination of additional lease revenue earned, replacement rentals saved and the efficiencies of getting the service completed in a single visit, CZI customers have reported savings of up to $50,000 on their operating budgets.

Creating the CZI & MPI Fastlane

To achieve the fast turn times, StandardAero implemented an optimized workflow, invested in specialized equipment and critical parts, and trained technicians in the new inspection process.

“We redesigned the process to concentrate heavily on the front end. We focus on preplanning and procurement for known long-lead repair parts, having them inspected and dispositioned on day one,” explained VanDolzer.

Three shifts of experienced technicians work around the clock for two weeks on each engine. All three shifts have full service capabilities, including engine disassembly and assembly, inspection, test cell and balance lab. The Fastlane system assesses critical hardware exchange processes and incorporates exceptionally efficient parts procurement to ensure all the components, including critical long-lead items, needed for rapid turnaround are on hand.

Speed doesn’t mean compromising quality. For almost 40 years, dating back to its legacy as Garrett Aviation Services, StandardAero has performed more TFE731 heavy maintenance than any other company. This unique experience results in engine MRO best practices that maximize MRO factory performance and optimize engine reliability.

“We’re meeting these fast schedules with the same exceptional quality, precision and service as always. It does take quite a bit of preparation and planning. By partnering with our customers and bringing them into the process early, we can complete the CZI in just two weeks,” said VanDolzer.

For example, to be eligible for the fast 14-day TFE731 CZI, operators must have the aircraft log book reviewed and TSN/CSN completed one month in advance to allow time for pre-planning; schedule the event at least two weeks ahead; and arrive on time to their scheduled appointment.

Due to long lead times on required parts modifications, the Fastlane CZI does not apply to -20/-40/-60 engines. The turn time for these engines is 21 days with proper pre-planning. The TFE731 Fastlane is available at StandardAero’s facilities in Houston, Texas (IAH) and Augusta, Ga., (AGS).

To discuss Fastlane for your upcoming CZI or MPI contact Eric Thompson at eric.thompson@standardaero.com or 480.377.3153.