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As a passenger, you might not always see firsthand how aircraft are maintained. However, behind every safe flight lies strict maintenance procedures, advanced technology, and expert teams working to ensure the aircraft is in top condition.

JAKARTA, March 31, 2025 – When passengers board an aircraft and prepare for takeoff, their minds are often on departure times, seat comfort, or in-flight services. But one crucial factor greatly determines the safety and smoothness of air travel: aircraft maintenance. Aircraft are subject to strict and mandatory maintenance standards that must be met before, during, and after flights.

1. Aircraft Maintenance is Scheduled, Not Random

Aircraft are not only checked when something goes wrong. Each aircraft follows a maintenance schedule based on flight hours, number of landings (flight cycles), and operational time. This maintenance is done regularly and divided into several types:

• Line Maintenance – Quick inspections at the airport before or after a flight, including checks on fuel, hydraulic systems, brakes, wheels, and avionics (flight instruments).
• Base Maintenance – Conducted at facilities like Batam Aero Technic (BAT) for in-depth inspections, parts replacements, or structural repairs.

2. Pre-Flight Inspections: Mandatory and Non-Negotiable

Every aircraft must undergo multiple layers of inspection before takeoff, including: ✅ Pre-Flight Check – Aircraft condition is inspected by technicians before departure. ✅ Walk Around Check – The pilot or technician visually inspects the aircraft exterior to ensure there are no leaks or visible damage. ✅ Cockpit Check – The pilot verifies all navigation, communication, and aircraft control systems before flying. If there is even the slightest technical issue detected, the aircraft will not be allowed to depart until it is fully resolved.

3. Technicians Are On Standby at Every Airport

Before departure and after landing, there is always a team of technicians ready to perform checks. They examine tire pressure, engine condition, braking systems, and fuel levels to ensure the aircraft is prepared for the next flight. If any part needs replacing, the technicians will address it immediately to keep the aircraft in optimal condition.

4. Periodic Maintenance: Thorough and Complex “Checks”

In addition to daily inspections, aircraft also undergo deeper, periodic maintenance checks, such as: ✅ Daily Check – Performed every day, covering visual inspections and main systems checks. ✅ A-Check – Conducted every 2–3 months, includes checking hydraulic systems, cabin pressure, and avionics. ✅ C-Check – Every 1.5 to 2 years, involves disassembling parts of the aircraft for a more in-depth inspection. ✅ D-Check – Major inspection every 6–10 years, requiring almost the entire aircraft to be dismantled.

Why Can Aircraft Fly So Often Without Issues?

Commercial aircraft such as the Airbus 320, Boeing 737-800NG, and ATR 72 are designed for frequent flights and long operational life. However, the secret lies not only in their advanced design but also in the routine maintenance that ensures every system functions optimally. For example: ✈ Aircraft tires are inspected after every landing and replaced after several hundred landings. ✈ Engines undergo regular inspections to maintain performance. ✈ Wings and structural components are examined using advanced techniques like non-destructive testing (NDT) to detect even the smallest cracks invisible to the naked eye.

What Happens If There’s a Technical Issue?

If any technical issue is detected during inspections, the aircraft will not be cleared for takeoff until the problem is fully resolved. Lion Air Group has mitigation procedures, including: ✅ Reassigning passengers to another available aircraft. ✅ Providing emergency maintenance support at the airport through the technical team. ✅ Delaying the flight if necessary to ensure the aircraft’s safety.

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