Delta Becomes First U.S. Airline to Use Drones for Maintenance Inspections
Delta Air Lines has become the first U.S. commercial airline to receive FAA approval to use camera-based drones for aircraft maintenance inspections. These small, unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) are now incorporated into Delta TechOps’ maintenance processes and will initially be used for visual inspections following lightning strikes. The FAA’s acceptance has added drone inspections to Delta’s Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) for its entire mainline fleet.
The drones are semi-autonomous, capturing images of the aircraft’s airframe without manual pilot input. Delta TechOps technicians then evaluate these images to assess airworthiness before the aircraft is cleared for service, much like traditional inspections.
This innovative approach enhances safety by reducing the need for technicians to inspect aircraft from heights, while also speeding up the inspection process by up to 82%. The faster inspection times will allow Delta to return aircraft to service more quickly, reducing delays and cancellations for passengers.
By integrating drone technology, Delta continues to lead the industry in safety and efficiency, ensuring quicker and safer maintenance checks across its fleet.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, news.delta.com