Abstract:
Aircraft maintenance was a highly regulated, safety-critical, complex industry that was
facing unprecedented challenges. Pressure was on aircraft manufacturers, from their
customers, to design aircraft with pushed-out maintenance schedules. Customers were
disappearing from the industry, and grounded aircraft around the world were translating
into substantial declines in business. The purpose of the study was to investigate the
moderating effect of technological advancements on the relationship between aircraft
conditions and aircraft maintenance of selected airlines in Nairobi County. The study
was guided by the following specific objectives: to determine the effects of aircraft type,
operational environment, and airline's maintenance policies on aircraft maintenance of
selected aviation companies in Kenya. The study used the resource-based theory, theory
of constraints, and control theory. The study adopted an explanatory research design.
The target population for the study was 135, comprising 40 engineers, 60
mechanics/technicians, 15 operations personnel, 10 ground handling staff, and 10
managers. This study used a census survey. The main data collection instrument was a
semi-structured questionnaire. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)
version 24 was used for data analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used
to analyse data. Descriptive statistics included frequency, percentages, means,
minimum, and maximum, and standard deviation. Inferential statistics included
correlation and regression models. Correlation showed the direction and strength of the
relationship between study variables. Regression analysis examined the relationship
between the dependent and independent variables that best predicted the value of the
said dependent variable. Analysed data were presented in the form of tables. The study
findings revealed that there was a positive linear effect of aircraft type and aircraft on
aircraft maintenance (β1=.244, p=0.030). Operation environment has a positive and
significant effect on aircraft maintenance (β2=.298, p=0.045). Airline's maintenance
policies have a positive and significant effect on aircraft maintenance (β3=.289,
p=0.025). Technological advancements had a negative and significant moderating
effect on the relationship between aircraft type and aircraft maintenance (β=-.187;
p<0.05). Technological advancements has a negative and significant moderating effect
on the relationship between operation environment and aircraft maintenance (β=-1.711;
p<0.05). Technological advancements has a positive and significant moderating effect
on the relationship between airline’s maintenance policies and aircraft maintenance
(β=.673; p<0.05). The study concluded that aircraft type and operational environment
significantly affect maintenance requirements, emphasizing the need for customized
maintenance strategies. Airline maintenance policies are clear and easy to understand,
with a majority of respondents finding them clear and up-to-date. The study
recommends that the training programs for personnel. Continuous review of policies to
remain relevant, clear, and easily understandable by maintenance personnel, thereby
contributing to safer and more efficient practices. Collaborative efforts between aircraft
manufacturers, maintenance organizations, and regulatory bodies are crucial to ensure
a seamless adoption that improves efficiency and safety without compromising quality.