Why do airlines try to repair planes at gates?
Once in a while, I get stuck at a gate waiting for a plane to be repaired. It makes me wonder - why do airlines even try to repair at the gate? It takes an unknown amount of time, they never provide a real ETA, and the airline usually doesn’t even admit the problem (or uses vague terms like an advisory or additional maintenance, as if customers are stupid).
Further, it would seem easier, faster, and better service to just swap out the plane.
Best Answer
When the airline chooses to delay a flight to "repair" a plane at the gate, it is usually because:
- The problem is relatively common and minor, and...
- The solution is either already known, or there is a good expectation of a common and timely solution
Delays from that point are usually just in terms of
- Confirming the problem and solution
- Getting the right people to the plane
- Getting the right parts to the plane
- Performing the fix
- Testing the fix
- Paperwork
In other words, most of the "problems" and "repairs" at gate are relatively "routine". If there was a big, unexpected problem without a clear solution, then the airline might think of canceling the flight or swapping out the plane, and getting the problematic plane to a hanger where the problem can really be investigated.
Also remember that most modern planes have very extensive sensors and diagnostic software that can not only tell you there is a problem, but where the problem is and what is causing it, and what needs to be replaced. This makes diagnostics and repair a much more straightforward and predictable process in terms of time to fix.
Pictures about "Why do airlines try to repair planes at gates?"
Why do planes return to the gate?
If the plane has been on the ground away from the gate for more than 3 hours, there is a regulation like that. A flight attendant on a flight yesterday said that the passengers bill of rights allows a passenger to demand that the plane return to the gate to let them off so long as the plane has not taken off yet.Do airlines pay for gates?
Gates are usually not charged to airlines separately. Gate fee is usually part of the landing fee package. Landing fees are an important part of the airport revenue, with passenger fees.What are people who repair plane called?
Aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs) are responsible for performing repairs, and preventative and routine maintenance on all types of aircraft and helicopters. FAA certified aircraft mechanics, also called Airframe and Powerplant mechanics, or A&P mechanics, are in high demand.How often do planes get repaired?
Commercial airplanes require frequent maintenance to offer a safe flying experience. They typically undergo a basic maintenance inspection once every two days, followed by a more thorough heavy maintenance inspection once every few years.COVID-19: With Travel Halted, What Happens To The Planes? | Grounded | CNA Documentary
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: MELANIO SALOME JR. PECH, AMAN, Pixabay, Ksenia Chernaya