Airbus Helicopters has improved to 98% the level of planned spares orders delivered on time worldwide. In addition, two new improved repair and overhaul services are now available, delivering secured lead times to customers.
These enhancements were unveiled today during the Helitech International 2014 exposition and conference in Amsterdam, where Airbus Helicopters is participating at the RAI conference center (Stand #J60, Hall 8).
Airbus Helicopters' extended Secured Standard Exchange policy responds to the needs of customers whose missions require maximum availability, offering them the possibility of immediately exchanging a part needing repair or overhaul with another serviceable part. The result is optimal operational availability and minimal maintenance downtime - enabling operators to keep their aircraft in the air. Ecureuil family helicopters are the first to benefit from the extended policy of Secured Standard Exchange both for dynamic components and equipment, before extension to other aircraft in the Airbus Helicopters range.
For its second initiative, Airbus Helicopters is introducing a Secured Turnaround Time (TAT) service, of 45 days for equipment repair and overhaul - easing customer maintenance operations, reducing downtime and providing better predictability. This service first focuses on equipment for Dauphin and Super Puma helicopter families, currently covering 400 part numbers, and ensures customers that a serviceable part will be available for them after 45 days, regardless of the normal repair cycle. The secured TAT will be further expanded over the course of the coming year to the rest of the commercial range and to a wider range of items, including dynamic components.
"With these steps, we are 'going the extra mile' by giving customers peace of mind and taking strong commitments to secure their operations," said Matthieu Louvot, Airbus Helicopters' Senior Vice President of Support and Services. "This is being achieved by continuously improving helicopter reliability and availability, as well as strong investments in the performance of our logistic and repair system."
As part of Airbus Helicopters' overall support and services improvements, the company is boosting its spares service level. More than 100 million euros have been invested to expand stocks around the world.