How to handle unscheduled maintenance (defects)

Overview

Unscheduled maintenance typically follows this flow:

Defect identified → Logged → Work order created → Work performed → Defect resolved

This ensures issues are handled in a structured and traceable way.

Step 1: Identify the defect

A defect can be identified during:

• Inspections

• Daily operations

• Pilot or technician reports

Any issue affecting the aircraft should be recorded immediately.

Step 2: Log the defect

Once identified, log the defect in MaintSpace:

1. Go to Maintenance Planning → Defects
2. Click “New Defect”
3. Select the aircraft
4. Describe the issue clearly
5. Set priority if needed

This ensures the issue is visible and tracked.

Step 3: Assess and prioritize

After logging the defect:

• Determine severity and urgency

• Decide if the aircraft can continue operating

• Plan corrective action

Clear prioritization helps you respond appropriately.

Step 4: Create a work order

To resolve the defect:

• Create a work order linked to the defect

• Define the required actions

• Assign responsibility

This ensures the defect is actively addressed.

Step 5: Prepare parts and tools

Before starting the repair:

• Check Inventory for required parts

• Reserve parts or order missing items

• Ensure tools are available

Preparation reduces downtime.

Step 6: Perform the repair

Execute the work in Production:

• Open the work order

• Perform the required maintenance

• Log time and actions

• Record findings

All work should be documented as it happens.

Step 7: Close the defect

Once the issue is resolved:

• Confirm the defect has been fixed

• Update the defect status

• Close the related work order

This ensures the issue is fully resolved and documented.