When is data migration relevant for airlines?

Within EXSYN we write a lot about data migration and get involved with many airlines worldwide to migrate some of their most sensitive and secure data. However, when does the topic of data migration become relevant for an airline? In this article we will shed some light on situations where airlines are confronted with data migration and why it is of such importance:

1. Implementation of a new Maintenance & Engineering Software

The software go by many different names; MRO software, M&E software, Computerized Maintenance Management System or CAMO system are just some examples. Albeit many different names their purpose is always universal: Manage the Airworthiness Data of the airlines fleet and ensure maintenance is performed in time and on the most efficient way possible. Thru ought the life stages of an airline new M&E software are implemented. Possible causes are:

• Current systems in use are hardly interfaces causing inefficiencies

• Current system is running on outdated technology

• Supplier of current systems ceases to exist

• Current system is not able anymore to effectively manage the growing fleet

Either of those cases will mostly trigger the procurement of a new MRO Software. Subsequently the airworthiness and maintenance data of the airline needs to be migrated into the new system. Not doing this properly can have significant impact on airworthiness of aircraft, maintenance costs and even airline reputation.

Read also: What to expect from a Data Migration Project

2. Induction of a new aircraft in the fleet

Whenever a new aircraft is inducted in the fleet of an airline a significant amount of data comes with the aircraft to prove its airworthiness status.  This data needs to be made available into the airline Maintenance & Engineering software used in order to manage the Continued Airworthiness of the aircraft. Depending on this aircraft being new from the OEM or coming from a previous operator, the data provided can have different levels of complexity.

3. Fleet renewal

Choosing to operate a new aircraft type within an airline is thrilling phase for every airline. Mostly it involves replacing a legacy fleet or enabling airline expansion.

In either case, the new fleet’s airworthiness will need to be managed in the Maintenance & Engineering software of the airline. Hence all required data pertaining to fleet and aircraft need to be made available by means of migrating this data. Think of:

• Part numbers from the IPC

• Airline Maintenance Program based on the OEM MPD

• Airworthiness Directives

• Service Bulletins

• Modifications

• Minimum Equipment List

• Structural Damage drawings

All of these situations bring the challenge to an airline of migrating data into one or multiple systems within its organization. Performing this activity by manual labour is often time and resource consuming and highly prone to human error. Hence data migration techniques and processes become relevant to each airline at different stages of their existence.

Read also:Key success factor for successful data migration 

How EXSYN can help

EXSYN's team of aircraft data and aviation experts utilize a proven data migration framework and methodology. It has been applied to millions of terabytes of master data and includes:

• EXSYN’s data migration tool TITAN to reduce project costs and duration

• EXSYN’s data warehouse to accelerate your migration

• Data mapping and load workshops to develop the best strategy for your situation

• EXSYN’s data migration dashboard to monitor the progress and quality of your data migration

• Migration of both structured and unstructured data

• ISO 27001 data security certified migration approach

Feel free to get in touch with us, we would be happy to discuss your situation.