New docks for Air NZ can reduce maintenance time

Press Release 18 May 2006

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New docks for Air New Zealand can reduce maintenance time

Air New Zealand Engineering Services (ANZES) is installing a new aircraft maintenance docking system at its Christchurch facility that can reduce aircraft maintenance time. The innovative docks designed by engineers and project managers Beca Carter Hollings & Ferner Ltd (Beca) can service 12 different types of aircraft types – eight from Boeing and four from Airbus.

The first two sections of the system were transported to the site early this morning.

ANZES Narrow Body Aircraft Maintenance Manager, Sam Lachman, says the docking system will make a real difference to operations at the base. “This mobile docking system is unique. It makes aircraft so much easier to work on and is very flexible,” he adds.

“The system is world class and will enable us to service a wide range of aircraft from Boeing 737-200 through to 900 and Airbus 318 to 321. Other maintenance docking systems can be very aircraft specific and limited in their application.”

The $4.5 million docking system is mobile, can be adjusted vertically and lengthwise, can be used inside or outside the hangar, and can accommodate different aircraft types, with four different wings and five different engines.

Beca provided structural, mechanical, electrical, project management, and contract management services. “We researched the operational requirements for models, including the shape of aircraft, door-openings and other projections,” says Graeme Wells, Beca's project manager. “The team studied the operational envelope of aircraft, with inputs from Air New Zealand. Our experience on similar projects in Auckland was helpful.”

This system provides flexibility to operate moving parts of the aircraft, including spatial clearances to allow their removal, providing for ventilation of the fuel cells, and provision of maintenance services such as lighting, power, compressed air and data. “Further, floor contact area was reduced to improve accessibility,” Graeme informs.

ENDS

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