MOC VTOL.2240 (e) In-Service Monitoring

(a)     For the purpose of VTOL.2240(e) parts having an important bearing on safety in operations are parts the failure of which has hazardous or catastrophic effects for the aircraft.

(b)     The provisions for In-Service Monitoring established in compliance with VTOL.2240(e) should include the necessary means to verify the health and operating conditions to help ensure the continued durability, integrity and functionality of the part. Actions arising from a finding could in the future change the certification approach for similar components or lead to continued airworthiness action.

(c)      The applicant should define an In-Service Monitoring programme which should verify the continuity of the effectiveness of design and maintenance provisions, as well other procedures, implemented to comply with VTOL.2240(a) and (b), VTOL.2250(a) and (c) and VTOL.2625 through the life of the type design.

(d)     The following means can be used to support the In-Service Monitoring programme:

(1)     Analysis of occurrence reports.

(2)     Analysis of unscheduled removal rates.

(3)     Results of scheduled maintenance.

(4)     Strip Reports / Analysis at overhaul.

(5)     Post-TC development and maturity tests.

(6)     Additional inspection (non-destructive and/or destructive) and testing on selected high time or rejected components.

(7)     Feedback from lead customers.

(8)     Audits of subcontractors and suppliers of parts.

(9)     Statistical process control data of manufacturing processes that are essential to ensure the integrity and/or functionality of the part.

(10)    Review of concessions.

(11)    Changes in utilization and operating environment.

(12)    Operator / applicant working group activities.

(13)    Health monitoring data.

(14)    Usage monitoring data.

(e)     The assessments required by the In-Service Monitoring programme should be performed at suitable periods through the complete life of the subject component types, considering the types of operation, environment and ageing effects expected. In addition, the applicant should consider scheduling early evaluation opportunities to confirm the suitability of the inspection and/or other procedures developed under VTOL.2240. Consideration should be given to adding new samples and revising the programme when changes to the types of operation or environment occur.

(f)      A plan defining the tasks and schedule of the In-Service Monitoring programme should be agreed during certification.

(g)     Regular reports stating the findings of the In-Service Monitoring programme during service should be furnished to the Agency, assessing all findings made.