DAS Aviation has developed a new engineering solution, developed with Aerospace Quality Research & Development (AQRD Engineering), for Phenom 300 operators seeking to address potential inlet fastener concerns identified during inspection. Designed as an engineered modification option, the solution changes the inner barrel fasteners as part of a comprehensive repair intended to address fastener-related inlet issues and improve overall inlet reliability.

The modification is intended for aircraft in which this condition is identified during inspection or for operators interested in a proactive solution to address inlet fastener concerns. In total, the process involves the replacement of approximately 700 rivets, providing a more durable long-term solution than simply replacing loose or missing fasteners.

In some cases, disassembly has shown that hidden damage to the mounting and support flanges can contribute to recurring fastener issues. For that reason, the DAS Aviation and AQRD Engineering solution goes beyond basic rivet replacement. The process includes a full teardown to allow a 100 per cent inspection of the mounting flanges and surrounding structure, helping identify hidden failures that can contribute to blind rivets working loose. This full inspection and rework process is a key reason the modification is structured as a seven-to-10-day event.

The modification applies to part number 505-43420-403 and all superseded part numbers. DAS Aviation has already completed this modification on numerous inlets, with a typical turnaround time of seven to 10 days. Because that schedule corresponds closely with the downtime already associated with inspection, operators can often incorporate the modification with minimal additional disruption to aircraft availability. DAS Aviation also offers loaners and spares to support operators and help keep aircraft flying while repairs or upgrades are underway if needed.

“DAS Aviation is a solutions company. When operators need an efficient path forward, we are here to develop a plan that keeps them flying,” comments Dan Podojil, senior vice president of DAS Aviation. “We are proud to support customers who are addressing this issue during routine inspections, as well as those taking proactive steps to address inlet fastener concerns. At the end of the day, our focus is on what the customer needs. That means delivering innovative solutions that are accomplished safely, efficiently and with minimal downtime.”

This solution provides operators with an option to address inlet fastener conditions that may lead to costly maintenance events. By combining engineering, repair capability and operator support services, DAS Aviation is offering customers a dependable option focused on safety, reliability and aircraft availability.

DAS Aviation is a FAA Part 145 Repair Station specialising in airframe structural repairs, sheet metal fabrication, component overhaul and repair, landing gear overhaul and repair, composite structures and engineering solutions. With locations in Texas, Ohio, and Colorado featuring over 200,000 square feet of repair shop space and a facility in Illinois with more than 75,000 square feet of inventory, DAS Aviation is equipped to serve business jet, commercial airline and military clients. The company also provides comprehensive parts support, mobile repairs and recovery services.