Aircraft maintenance ensures optimal performance, efficiency, and safety for all aircraft. For operators of Embraer Phenom jets, periodic inspections are not only a regulatory requirement but also key to preserving the aircraft’s safety, reliability, and longevity. In particular, the 10-year and 15-year inspections are significant milestones in a Phenom’s lifecycle. These inspections demand expert knowledge, precision, and attention to detail, qualities our Jet Access Maintenance teams consistently deliver.
The Importance of the 10-Year and 15-Year Inspections
The 10-year and 15-year inspections for the Phenom are comprehensive overhauls that go far beyond routine maintenance. These inspections are designed to ensure that all components function correctly, identify potential issues before they become major problems, and keep the aircraft compliant with airworthiness standards.
10-Year Inspection
The 10-year inspection is a significant service event for the Phenom aircraft. The airframe, engines, avionics, and other systems undergo a thorough evaluation during this inspection. Here are some key procedures involved:
- Airframe Inspection:
- Wings, Fuselage, and Tail: Detailed inspection for structural integrity, corrosion, and wear.
- Landing Gear: Complete disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, non-destructive testing (NDT), reassembly, functional testing, painting, and return to service.
- Engine Inspection:
- Engine and System Checks: Engines and other critical systems are thoroughly inspected and tested to ensure optimal performance. Depending on operating hours, the engines could have either hot section inspections or overhauls due simultaneously.
- Hot Section Inspection (HSI): Performed at 2,500 flight hours for the PW535E engines on the Phenom 300 and 1,750 flight hours for the PW617F-E engines on the Phenom 100.
- Overhaul: The Time Between Overhaul (TBO) is 5,000 flight hours for PW535E and 3,500 for PW617F-E.
- Additional Maintenance:
- Avionics and Systems: Inspection and potential upgrades of avionics systems.
- Interior and Exterior: Opportunity for refurbishment, including paint and interior upgrades.
Statistics on 10-Year Inspections:
- Over 150 Phenom 100 and 300 aircraft have successfully completed their 10-year inspections worldwide.
- Approximately 20% of these inspections included significant avionics upgrades, such as the Garmin G1000 NXi.
- The average duration for a 10-year inspection is around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the model and specific requirements.
15-Year Inspection
The 15-year inspection is even more involved, as the aircraft approaches midlife. This inspection typically includes all the elements of the 10-year inspection, with added emphasis on the aging of certain components. Tasks typically include:
- Airframe and Structural Inspections:
- Enhanced Structural Inspections: The airframe will undergo more detailed checks to account for additional wear and tear over 15 years.
- Corrosion Control: Detailed inspection for corrosion, especially in high-stress areas.
- Structural Integrity: Ensuring the airframe remains free from cracks and other structural issues.
- Engine Low Utilization Inspection (LUI):
- External and Internal Inspections: Borescope inspections of the high-pressure compressor, diffuser exit ducts, and fuel nozzles.
- Performance Calibration: Ensuring the engines are operating within specified parameters.
- System Checks:
- Hydraulic and Electrical Systems: Comprehensive testing and inspection of all critical systems, and overhauling these systems as needed.
- Avionics: Ensuring all avionics are functioning correctly and are up to date.
- Advanced Avionics Upgrades: Incorporating the latest technology to ensure the aircraft remains state-of-the-art.
Statistics on 15-Year Inspections:
- Many Phenom aircraft are now undergoing their first 15-year inspections, marking a significant milestone in their operational life.
- The cost for a 15-year inspection can be higher than the 10-year inspection due to the additional checks and potential component replacements.
- The average duration of a 15-year inspection can be longer than that of a 10-year inspection due to the additional checks and potential component replacements.
Impact on Long-Term and Resale Value
Consistently completing inspections like the 10-year and 15-year inspections, along with other recommended maintenance intervals, significantly enhances the long-term and resale value of your Embraer Phenom. Here’s how:
- Enhanced Safety and Reliability: Well-maintained aircraft are perceived as safer and more reliable, which is a crucial factor for potential buyers.
- Higher Resale Value: Aircraft with up-to-date inspections and maintenance records typically command higher resale prices. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for meticulously maintained aircraft.
- Reduced Downtime for Buyers: An aircraft that has recently undergone major inspections will require less immediate maintenance, making it more attractive to buyers who want to minimize downtime.
- Compliance with Regulations: Ensuring that all inspections are up to date means the aircraft complies with aviation regulations, which is a significant selling point.
Why Choose Jet Access Maintenance?
Expertise with Embraer Aircraft
As your Phenom reaches the 10-year or 15-year inspection milestones, you want to trust the experts to ensure its continued safety, performance, and longevity. At Jet Access, you gain access to a team of highly skilled professionals with the knowledge and experience to handle these critical inspections. We ensure that every inspection, repair, and maintenance procedure is performed to the highest standard.
With Embraer Authorized Service Centers at Music City Executive and Eagle Creek Airpark, Jet Access Maintenance is your go-to partner for Phenom inspections. If you own a Phenom, don’t wait for issues to arise. Schedule your next 10-year or 15-year inspection with us to keep your aircraft in prime condition and ensure a safe, smooth flight for years to come. Our team of experts is ready to handle your inspections with the utmost care and precision. Contact Jet Access today!
