Technology to support inspection training in the general aviation industry: Specification and design

Training has been identified as a principal intervention strategy to improve the quality and reliability of aircraft inspection and reducing errors. This paper explores the use of advanced technology for inspection training and reducing inspector errors within the general aviation industry. The research extended earlier work on computer-based inspection training, for the commercial aviation system into an inspection training system for the general aviation (GA) industry. In this article we describe the results of the research pursued over three years with the following specific objectives: (1) conduct task analyses of existing inspection operations at geographically dispersed GA locations, (2) develop and organize content to support inspection training, (3) deliver a prototype training system and (4) disseminate the findings of the research to the GA community and aviation research community. Specifically designed for training aircraft maintenance technicians in inspection skills, the computer-based inspection training tool entitled GAITS – General Aviation Inspection Training System uses a multi-media presentational approach with interaction opportunities between the user and the computer. It is anticipated that the use of this tool will systematize and standardize the inspection training process in the general aviation industry.