LINCOLN, NEB. — In 2011, Duncan Aviation performed 16 out-of-sequence paint removals to accommodate early detection of surface corrosion on business aircraft prior to inspection, and demand for the service is increasing. Eight aircraft are already scheduled to receive out-of-sequence strip and paint events in 2012, with more commitments pending. Five events are currently in process.

Stripping an aircraft prior to maintenance is a proactive approach to corrosion detection that buys extra time for repairs. Duncan Aviation refers to this method of interrupting the paint cycle as an “out-of-sequence” strip and paint event.

“Business aircraft fleets are aging, and with age comes a higher risk of corrosion,” says Suzanne Hawes, Paint Completions Representative at Duncan Aviation’s Battle Creek, Michigan facility. “This program helps detect aircraft corrosion before a major inspection begins, which can save operators a month or more of downtime if major repairs are required.”

Duncan Aviation has long offered paint removal prior to inspection as a service option for its customers. Now as more business aircraft are approaching 12 years of age, Duncan Aviation’s maintenance teams are observing more instances of corrosion across many aircraft makes and models. If an operator is concerned about corrosion on their aircraft, they may want to consider stripping the aircraft prior to inspection.

“With an out-of-sequence event, we can address the corrosion and minimize the impact to the customer. It can really save downtime in the long run,“ says Hawes.

There will be limited out-of-sequence events in 2012. Out-of-sequence events can be performed for any aircraft, and should be scheduled four to six months in advance.