Reliability plays a crucial role in maintenance support, often forming a key requirement for any maintenance organization’s approval. It refers to the likelihood that a component or system will perform its intended function effectively over a specified time or within a defined environment without failure. Data regarding the service time of removed aircraft components is collected and shared with the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Both parties are expected to analyze this data to identify issues related to component life and inspection. This analysis can highlight potential changes needed within a specific maintenance organization or across all relevant organizations, including OEM input. An essential benchmark in reliability is Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF), which is typically slightly less than the expected duration as ‘wear-out’ or ‘design life’ approaches. This is due to the occurrence of ‘infant mortality’ shortly after component installation, illustrated by the Bathtub Curve.
