CHC has signed an agreement with ITP Aero to implement DigitAI Aero across its fleet of engines, a service that provides a data solution capable of processing over three million data points per flight hour for the S-92, one million for the AW139 and over six million for the AW189.
“The integration of DigitAI Aero into our operations marks a transformative step forward for our fleet management and maintenance processes,” said Miguel Carrasco, SVP of Technical Operations at CHC Helicopter. “We are not only enhancing our predictive maintenance strategies but also ensuring the highest levels of safety and reliability for our customers. Using AI to predict when a helicopter might be grounded due to engine unscheduled maintenance needs weeks in advance significantly improves our operational planning and customer service.”
The engines will also be diagnosed daily to identify potential problems early, using a suite of tools specifically developed for the S-92 and AW139. Consequently, helicopter AOG (Aircraft on ground) could be foreseen months in advance.
Barry van der Ark, Director of Strategic Sourcing, Categories and Licensing at CHC Helicopter, added: “After our consultation with ‘AI’ companies, working with our Engineering, Reliability and Technical Airworthiness teams, we are proud to lead this innovation in the helicopter industry, demonstrating our commitment to excellence and safety with our long-term partner ITP Aero.”
“CHC Helicopter were the first to use HUMS over 25 years ago and is now the first helicopter operator to embrace our DigitAI Aero service,” commented Daniel Barredo, DigitAI Aero Services Manager. “Over the past seven years of dedicated collaboration, we have processed significant volumes of data and analysed more than 214,473 complete flights within the S-92 fleet. We have proactively addressed over 100 engine events, resulting in a dramatic decrease in AOG calls. This partnership exemplifies the effective collaboration between two pioneering companies.”
Photo: CHC
