HAECO Group has recently used new remote inspection technology to complete on-wing modification of nacelles, in collaboration with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The modification was conducted by base maintenance’s 24/7 on-wing Structure Support (OSS) team at HAECO Hong Kong’s maintenance hangar.

The restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic have increased the need for remote technology and thereby accelerated the pace of digital innovation. The OSS team introduced remote digital inspection to enable live collaboration between the Hong Kong-based HAECO maintenance team and the OEM technical support teams based in Singapore and the United States.

HAECO’s remote inspection system includes voice-controlled goggles - a hands-free device equipped with a camera and screen, approved for use in hazardous environments. These are paired with a communication interface that can be accessed from any computer or mobile device. This software allows each party connected to the system to “see through the mechanic’s eyes” in real-time, to ensure their work meets expected safety and quality standards. With their hands-free smart glasses, mechanics and inspectors can also follow digital workflows in the field, take inspection pictures, share files, and capture field data. Remote inspections also allow technical questions to be clarified in real-time with the experts from the OEM or customer support teams, thus significantly enhancing efficiency and aiding on-time delivery. Live-streaming of the work processes also provides increased transparency for customers.

The OSS team has since used remote inspection technology in various other aircraft maintenance applications. Notwithstanding the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, HAECO continues to innovate, with the goal of meeting and exceeding the expectations of OEMs and customers alike in delivering high quality, on-time services.