HOW OFTEN MUST HELICOPTER MAINTENANCE BE DONE?

If you’re into aviation and you’re considering purchasing a helicopter, it’s important to understand that owning a helicopter is a big responsibility. One important component is helicopter maintenance, as there is a very specific and involved process. In this article, our team will discuss the ins and outs of helicopter maintenance to give you an idea of what you’ll be responsible for. If you have any questions or would like more information about aircraft maintenance, our team is on standby. 

Pre-flight inspections 

Safety is always a priority when dealing with helicopters, and you must conduct a pre-flight inspection before every flight you take. Pre-flight inspections include:

• A careful inspection of the cabin
• Inspecting the propellor
• Inspecting the fuel levels and the engine
• Ensuring all necessary paperwork is completed
• Checking the ignition switch is not on
• Inspecting the tires
• Removing any ice, frost, or snow during the winter months

Pre-flight inspections should be conducted by a certified aircraft mechanic who has extensive experience with helicopters. If you rent a hangar at your local FBO airport, they may have an on-site maintenance crew who can conduct pre and post-flight inspections for you. 

A, B, C & D Checks

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has designated the required maintenance checks for helicopters into categories A, B, C, and D. Here’s how each check works:

A checks: A checks take place after every 125 flight hours, and they’re performed overnight at the gate. 

B checks: B checks are carried out every six months in the aircraft hangar. 

C checks: C checks are a more extensive type of check, and they’re done every two years. They can take around two weeks to complete. 

D checks: D checks are done every six years. This type of check is extremely thorough and can take up to two months to finish. 

Preventative Maintenance 

A helicopter is a very valuable asset, so it makes sense to invest in regular preventative maintenance. Your maintenance schedule will depend on how frequently you fly your helicopter. For example, if you’re flying frequently in the summer months but you keep your helicopter stored in a hangar for most of the winter, you’ll need more preventative maintenance checks in the summer than you would in the winter. 

Typical preventative maintenance includes regular oil changes, replacing the tires, replacing the safety belts, cleaning the spark plugs, replenishing hydraulic fluid, replacing batteries, replacing safety wires, replacing air filters, and checking the oil levels in the engine. 

If you’d like more information about comprehensive helicopter maintenance, or if you have any other flight questions, please contact our team at Monmouth Jet Center today or visit our website at: https://monmouthjetcenter.com/

This blog was originally published at https://monmouthjetcenter.com/ins-and-outs-of-helicopter-maintenance/

HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT FBO AIRPORT FOR YOUR BUSINESS

 

Are you a private or charter plane company owner searching for the best Fixed Base Operator (FBO) airport for your business? Choosing the right FBO airport is essential because all of your clients will come and go through this airport, and you need the amenities to be top notch. Here are a few things you should look for when choosing a FBO airport for your business. 

High-Quality Customer Service

Great customer service is important in every industry, and you should choose a FBO airport that makes high-quality customer service its number one priority. Everyone will be positively affected by great customer service: the pilots, the ground crew, your clients, and yourself. You should feel like the staff at your FBO airport go above and beyond to give you an exceptional experience, every time. 

Location & Runway Class

Location is key, and we recommend choosing an FBO airport that gives you easy access to several major cities, and any major highways or public transportation centers. Your clients will appreciate the convenience and they’ll enjoy the flexibility of being able to visit numerous destinations when using a single airport. 

You’ll also want a FBO that has runways designated for non-commercial jets, because as a private or charter jet operator, your flights will be private and non-commercial. 

Aircraft Services 

Aircraft services is a term that encompasses everything from cleaning the interior of your aircraft to any repairs your aircraft needs. You’ll want a FBO airport that has on-the-ground maintenance crews who can service your aircraft like re-fueling, and performing regular maintenance. Having an on-site maintenance crew who handle all of your aircraft servicing is a must, and it will help keep your aircraft in top condition. 

Passenger Amenities

Your clients are the core of your business, so choosing an FBO airport that offers extensive passenger amenities just makes sense. Many upscale FBO airports offer a range of amenities, including free WiFi, a passenger lounge, cold and hot drinks, meals and snacks, and even showers for people who have traveled a long way. Whether your clients are waiting for their next flight or deplaning at your airport, their comfort should be your top priority. 

As you can see, there are several important elements to consider when choosing an FBO airport for your business. We highly recommend an airport that is conveniently located near your clients’ frequent destinations, an airport that has around-the-clock aircraft servicing from a team of experts, and an airport that has first-rate passenger amenities and customer service. 

For more information about using Monmouth Jet Center as your FBO airport, or if you have any questions, please contact our team today. We look forward to hosting you. https://monmouthjetcenter.com/

This blog was originally published at https://monmouthjetcenter.com/how-to-pick-the-right-fbo-airport/