Where does India Stand in Aircraft Engine Manufacturing

Machine learning algorithms in aircraft manufacturing
Aircraft manufacturers are using machine-learning techniques such as artificial intelligence (AI) to improve aircraft safety and improve manufacturing productivity. Machine learning algorithms collect data from machine-to-machine and machine-to-human interfaces and use data analytics to drive effective decision making. These technologies optimize manufacturing operations and lower costs.

One of the leading manufacturers uses machine learning and data analytics to identify faults in engines, which increases the components’ lives and reduces maintenance costs. The company has successfully built machine-learning algorithms to design aircraft and automate factory operations.

IoT (Internet of Things) technology used in maintenance
Aircraft maintenance and repair companies are widely using IoT technology for predictive maintenance of aircraft parts and equipment. IoT technology is used to send critical data from engines, wing flaps, bleed values and landing gear to technicians for preventive maintenance. This data aids technicians to create maintenance schedules, procure parts and schedule relevant workers to fix equipment.

3D printing for aircraft parts
Additive manufacturing is continuously evolving and manufacturers are now using 3D printing technology to produce parts for aircraft and aircraft engines. 3D printing creates a three-dimensional physical object using a digital design. 3D-printed parts are 25% lighter, simpler and offer more design features than conventional parts. This enables manufacturers to create high performance aircraft engines and parts.

One of the major setbacks for the industry right now is the Covid-19 pandemic and the effects caused by it.

Industry to focus on improving the supply chains
“The crisis confronting the aviation industry is not only unprecedented but also that no one who is working in the industry has any clue on how to put the industry back on track. It’s not a question of only restrictions, visas not being allowed, travel not being allowed, airlines not being allowed. Even after all these are allowed, there will be apprehension.

The first is the economic aspect. Will people travel, either for leisure or on business? The answer is clearly no. It will take a long time for this to happen,” says Jitender Bhargava, a former airline executive director, an aviation industry expert and consultant.

The demand for aircraft and restrictions on the movement of people and goods due to the pandemic has led to a breakdown of many essential A&D (Aerospace and Defense) supply chains. This has resulted in an impact on smaller suppliers, especially those with heavy exposure to commercial aerospace and the aftermarket business. As most A&D suppliers are highly specialized with unique expertise and complex equipment, it would be difficult to adapt to the different production needs in response to varying demand.

Moreover, the A&D supply base is not consistent, and the crisis will likely continue to affect suppliers in different ways, depending on whether they focus on commercial aerospace, defense, or the aftermarket. The challenge is highlighted as many suppliers serve both commercial aerospace and defense, and any irregularities from the commercial side could leave defense OEMs (Original equipment manufacturer) vulnerable with regard to sourcing critical parts for their programs and platforms.

Suppliers that depend primarily on the commercial aftermarket are expected to experience lower volume for several years due to reduced flying hours, an excess of used serviceable material, and inventory destocking. The industry’s focus is likely to shift toward transforming supply chains into more resilient and dynamic networks, which could be done using strategies such as onshoring, vertical integration, and increased cyber defenses.

To further strengthen supply chains, OEMs and suppliers should leverage digital tools, including automating internal processes and streamlining workflows, implementing smart management systems, and using data analytics. Also, collaboration with regional players to build capabilities and shift manufacturing capacity when needed could make the A&D supply chain more robust and help the industry manage business disruptions.

Many A&D companies are also using an ecosystem approach to strengthen their supply chains. In a recent survey, 72% of industry executives said they are investing in supply chain ecosystems to leverage external alliance partners.

Experts say that though the technology innovations are positives for the aircraft manufacturing industry, the pandemic situation and its effects are to be seen as an important effect and it will take a certain period of time to bring the industry back to the original state.