Inspection Process
We understand that inspections may fall outside your capabilities or that you simply don’t have the manpower to handle them in-house. That’s why S & T Aircraft is proud to offer comprehensive inspection services for your parts and components. Our process ensures each item receives a thorough evaluation to keep safety and quality front and center.
Our inspection services share the same high standards as our overhaul work but follow a distinct process. Inspections are performed at our certified repair station, and once complete, components can be shipped directly back to you — no matter where you’re located. As with all incoming shipments, we begin with a preliminary inspection to check for shipping damage. If any issues are found, we notify you immediately so you can take appropriate action with your shipping carrier.
Before we begin, we review your specific inspection requirements and determine the most effective inspection method to meet them. Since there are various techniques available, this step ensures precision and efficiency throughout the process.
We then gather the necessary tools, confirming all calibration is current and traceable to NIST standards. Additionally, we cross-check our equipment against on-site master standards to guarantee the highest level of accuracy. With everything in place, we carry out the inspection to your specifications, including any required Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).
If any part fails inspection, we will promptly inform you of the findings. All components—whether passed or failed—are then securely packaged and returned to you.
Accident Investigation Assistance
At S & T Aircraft, our dedication to aviation safety isn’t just a standard—it’s a core value woven into everything we do. That’s why we proudly offer investigative support to major aviation authorities including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and regulatory bodies across the globe. Our reputation for precision, integrity, and technical excellence has made us a trusted partner in uncovering the facts behind aviation incidents.
While our investigative services are primarily designed to assist government agencies, we also extend this expertise to our valued customers. Whether you need an unbiased review of work performed by another MRO or have concerns regarding the airworthiness of a component, S & T Aircraft provides the objective, expert evaluation you can depend on. When safety is in question, we believe in shining a light on the facts—clearly, thoroughly, and without compromise.
The investigation process begins the moment we’re contacted. We take the time to collaborate with the requesting authority to gather critical information, including aircraft details, meteorological conditions, wreckage characteristics, and impact dynamics. This comprehensive approach enables us to craft a strategic plan tailored to the investigation’s specific needs, ensuring every avenue is explored with precision and care.
Once the investigative plan is approved, we coordinate the secure transfer of components to our facility, often accompanied by an oversight representative to ensure full transparency. Our procedures may involve a range of techniques including non-destructive testing, component testing, disassembly, forensic inspection, and data analysis. Every step is carefully documented with high-resolution photographs, calibrated measurements, and detailed reports of all discrepancies or findings.
At the conclusion of the investigation, we assemble all findings into a thorough final report. This includes a data-supported analysis of the most likely cause of the incident, professional insight drawn from decades of experience, and actionable recommendations to prevent recurrence. We also provide any additional technical documentation or supporting materials requested by the investigating body.
In every case, our goal remains the same: to support the safe advancement of aviation by delivering uncompromising accuracy, insight, and integrity in every investigation we undertake.
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