Cleared for Green: The Rise of Eco-Friendly Innovations in Aviation Maintenance
One of the major pressing global issues is climate change. Over the years, the drastic change in the average global temperature and weather patterns have caused disastrous effects on the planet and human life. The contribution of the aerospace and aviation industry to global carbon emissions is often considered low, compared to other forms of transportation, with about 2.5% of CO2 emissions and 4% of global warming. Nonetheless, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), alongside various aircraft manufacturers, in line with the UN Paris Agreement on climate change in 2016, has taken multiple measures to address climate change and move towards net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
With new developments coming up in the industry, it is important to take a close look into the impact of these technologies and how they have been influencing climate change to achieve zero emissions. Aviation maintenance has been one of the aspects of the industry that has been greatly impacted by these sustainable initiatives.
1. 3D-Printing of Aircraft Parts
This has gained popularity in recent years and it is gradually becoming one of the leading sustainable aviation practices. Otherwise known as Additive Manufacturing, it involves the computerized design and printing of aircraft parts and this has reduced the carbon footprint of the manufacturing processes, which is the backbone of aircraft maintenance operations in aviation.
Compared to traditional manufacturing methods, 3-D printed aircraft parts have lower manufacturing costs, shorter production times, and can achieve highly complex designs with maximum accuracy and precision.
2. Green Maintenance Practices
Most paint removers, cleaning, and de-icing agents used during maintenance have toxic chemicals and often end up in water bodies. This causes water pollution and can be very toxic to water life. These major environmental concerns have led to the development of eco-friendly detergents and solvents that are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment.
The 3R policy of "Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle" is being strongly promoted to improve sustainability in aviation. Waste-to-energy technologies are being explored to reduce long-term waste and convert it to useful energy.
3. Recycling Aircraft Components
The recovery and recycling of manufacturing materials such as aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber from retired aircraft has reduced the demand for these materials for manufacturing new components. Recycling these materials minimizes waste, reduces the production of greenhouse gases, and promotes more sustainable production practices.
4. Digital Records
Most airlines and maintenance organizations are shifting from paper records to digital. This involves storing aircraft maintenance data on storage clouds and the electronic transmission of data instead of paperwork. Digital logbooks reduce paper usage in aviation maintenance operations, positively impacting climate change.
5. Environmental Impact Training Programs
New sustainable aviation training programs are being incorporated into aviation maintenance courses for aviation professionals. The programs cover environmental management in airports, waste management, energy conservation, and supply chain sustainability.
Conclusion
Sustainability in aviation maintenance is not an option - it is a necessity. New sustainable aviation practices like additive manufacturing, recycling, digitalization, and sustainability training are being gradually introduced to reverse the effects of climate change.
These initiatives not only reduce aviation's carbon footprint and promote environmental sustainability but also improve operational efficiency in the industry.
About the Author
Annie is a Mechanical Engineering graduate with experience in quality assurance, nondestructive testing (NDT), and aircraft maintenance. She is a Mentee at World Hydrogen Leaders, an Education Fellow with the U.S. Government's Carrington Fellowship, and a Committee Member for the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). As Founder of the Young Aerospace Professionals Initiative, Annie leads mentorship programs and advocates for women in STEM while creating aviation content for Aviation Business Consultants International.
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