Aircraft conditions, technological advancements and Aircraft Maintenance of selected Airlines in Nairobi County

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.