On September 9, 2016, Duncan Aviation’s Honeywell engine service authorization was extended, designating the company’s Lincoln, Nebraska, location as a Honeywell TFE731 Heavy or Overhaul Maintenance facility.
With this authorization, Duncan Aviation’s Turbine Engine Maintenance facility is able to inspect and repair the compressor zone on the Honeywell TFE731 engine during scheduled CZI (Compressor Zone Inspection) events, unscheduled CZR (Compressor Zone Repairs), and expanded Service Bulletin capabilities. Duncan Aviation has made a significant investment in a new test cell and control room. The test cell is currently under construction and scheduled to be fully operational by January 2018.
With the addition of the heavy authorization, James Prater, Manager of Turbine Engine Services, expects to hire approximately 10 new turbine engine technicians over the next three years. “These added capabilities allow us to better serve our customers, which may lead to increased segment presence, requiring us to add technicians in order to keep up with demand as our heavy repair business matures.”
The TFE731 Heavy Maintenance authorization has increased the activity of Duncan Aviation’s Engine RRT (Rapid Response Team) network as they troubleshoot, remove, and install the engines at customer’s facilities in support of the CZI shop.
It is anticipated the authorization will increase Duncan Aviation’s annual engine maintenance events by 50-75%. Nearly 50% of the engines sent to Lincoln, Nebraska, for inspection and repair are shipped in from aircraft located at airports around the world. Duncan Aviation’s network of engine RRTs will be vital in supporting the increased business.