General Visual Inspection: Airframe and Power Plant Systems

AIRFRAME AND POWER PLANT SYSTEMS
AIRCRAFT Power Plant & Airframe / Avionics

MAINTENANCE Line and Base Maintenance
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GENERAL VISUAL INSPECTION
FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

Initial Training 2017 PAG. 1 ALL
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THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL HAS BEEN PREPARATED

BY ABC CAPACITACIÓN Y ADIESTRAMIENTO WITH INFORMATION
EXTRACTED FROM AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE MANUAL IN ORDER TO
PROVIDE TECHNICAL TRAINING.
AT MOMENT OF ELABORATION ITS CONSIDERED UPDATED, ALL

TECHNICAL DATA, LIMITS AND TOLERANCES USED ON THIS MANUAL AND
SHOULD BE USED ONLY FOR TRAINING PURPOSES
THE INFORMATION FOR FIELD JOBS MUST BE OBTAINED FROM

CURRENT MANUALS.
LA INFORMACIÓN CONTENIDA EN ESTE MANUAL HA SIDO ELABORADA

POR EL ABC CAPACITACIÓN Y ADIESTRAMIENTO, CON INFORMACIÓN
EXTRAÍDA DE LOS MANUALES DE MANTENIMIENTO DE LA AERONAVE
CON FINES DE INSTRUCCIÓN.
AL MOMENTO DE LA ELABORACIÓN DE ESTA INFORMACIÓN SE

CONSIDERA ACTUALIZADA, CON LOS DATOS TÉCNICOS, TOLERANCIAS,
LIMITES UTILIZADAS EN ESTE MANUAL QUE DEBE DE SER USADO SOLO
CON FINES DE ENTRENAMIENTO
LA INFORMACIÓN PARA LOS TRABAJOS EN LA AERONAVE DEBERÁ DE

SER OBTENIDO DE LOS MANUALES ACTUALIZADOS DE LA AERONAVE.

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Table of Contents:
ATA TOPIC PAGE

00 – 00 General Visual Background 05
00 – 00 Introduction 07
00 – 00 General Description 08
00 – 00 Definition of Visual Inspection 10
00 – 00 Purpose of Visual Inspection 12
00 – 00 Simple Visual Inspection Aids 14
00 – 00 Visual Inspection Procedures 18
00 – 00 Characteristics of Visual Inspection 21
00 – 00 Human Factors in Inspection 26
00 – 00 Visual Inspection Original Equipment Manufacture 30
00 – 00 A320 Family 31
00 – 00 Superjet RRJ-95B 32
00 – 00 AMM Definition of Terms 33
00 – 00 Aircraft Status for Maintenance 33
00 – 00 Conclusion 34
00 – 00 Electrical Wiring Interconnect Systems (EWIS) - General Visual Inspection (GVI) 35

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LEFT IN BLANK INTENTIONALLY

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GENERAL VISUAL BACKGROUND

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Maintenance
Technician  Review of the Inspection tasks will assist you in
(Personnel) performing the task of a maintenance technician
and Inspection Authorization to the requirements of
the Federal Aviation Regulations.
and
 Recurrent training is the key to your success and
Inspection the key to maintaining a safe aircraft.
Authorization  Lets take a look at those tasks that we are required
Inspection Task to do as a maintenance technician.
(Repair Station)
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS TO CARRY OUT

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INTRODUCTION
Inspections are the most important task that we perform. It is also

important that we build a working relationship with the owner and
operator aircraft so we can complete the requirements of the
inspection to determine that all the airworthiness requirements are
met.
It is just as important that the owner/operator understand their

responsibility in maintaining the aircraft. Take the opportunity to
explain the requirements of the regulations and assist the
owner/operator in making sure that all the requirements of the
regulation are met.
Many times, there is a misunderstanding that the owner/operator

has an option not to fix discrepancies found during the inspection.
The regulation does not allow items to be deferred except in
accordance with inoperative equipment procedures. Therefore,
once you have determined it to be a discrepancy, a corrective
action must be taken. Set it straight before you start the inspection.

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION SIGNIFICANCE
Visual inspection is the oldest and most common form of NDI for Visual Inspection comprises the majority of the inspection
aircraft. Approximately 80 percent of all NDI procedures are activities for aircraft structures, power plants and systems. Like all
accomplished by the direct visual methods. This inspection inspection methods, visual inspection is not perfect, whether
procedure may be greatly enhanced by the use of appropriate performed by human, by automated devices or by hybrid human/
combinations of magnifying instruments, borescopes, light sources, automation systems. While some inspection Probability of
video scanners, and other devices. Visual inspection provides a Detection (PoD) data is available for visual inspection most
means of detecting and examining a wide variety of component recommendations for visual inspection improvement are based
and material surface discontinuities, such as cracks, corrosion, on unquantified anecdotes or even opinion data.
contamination, surface finish, weld joints, solder connections, and
adhesive dis-bonds. Visual inspection is widely used for detecting This document uses data from various non-aviation inspection
and examining aircraft surface cracks, which are particularly tasks to help quantify some of the factors affecting visual
important because of their relationship to structural failures. Visual inspection performance. The human factors analysis brings
inspection is frequently used to provide verification when defects detailed data on human characteristics to the solution of
are found initially using other NDI techniques. The use of optical inspection reliability problems. As a result of this research, a
aids for visual inspection is beneficial and recommended. Optical series of best practices are available for implementation. These
aids magnify defects that cannot be seen by the unaided eye and can be used in improved training schemes, procedures, design of
also permit visual inspection in inaccessible areas. equipment and the inspection environment so as to reduce the
overall incidence of inspection error in visual inspection tasks for
RELATION OF VISUAL INSPECTION TO NONDESTRUCTIVE critical components.
INSPECTION (NDI)
Visual inspection is an essential part or de airplane maintenance.

The visual inspection component of NDI requires trained and
experienced personnel, using calibrated procedures and
appropriate calibration standards with effective, well maintained
equipment in a well-managed maintenance environment

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VISUAL INSPECTION – GENERAL DESCRIPTION

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DEFINITION OF VISUAL INSPECTION
There are a number of definitions of visual inspection in the aircraft “visual testing is the primary method used in aircraft
maintenance domain. For example, in its AC-43-204, the FAA uses maintenance and such tests can reveal a variety of
the following definition: discontinuities. Generally, these tests cover a broad area of
the aircraft structure. More detailed (small area) tests are
“Visual inspection is defined as the process of using the conducted using optically aided visual methods. Such tests
unaided eye, alone or in conjunction with various aids, as the include the use of magnifiers and borescopes.”
sensing mechanism from which judgments may be made
about the condition of a unit to be inspected.” However, there is more to visual inspection than just visual
information processing. Imaging devices are playing and
The ASNT’s Non-Destructive Testing Handbook, Volume 8 increasing part in the inspection process, (e.g., ultrasonic C-
(McIntire and Moore, 1993) has a number of partial definitions in scans, eddy current imaging, real time X ray). Analysis of such
different chapters. Under Section 1, Part 1, Description of Visual displays is not considered visual inspection and cover under
and Optical Tests (page 2), it defines: Nondestructive Inspection process.
“Visual and optical tests are those that use probing energy In resume, Visual Inspection can be defined as:
from the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Changes in the light’s properties after contact with the test “Visual Inspection is defined as the process of using the
object may be detected by human or machine vision. eye, alone or in conjunction with various aids, as the
Detection may be enhanced or made possible by mirrors, sensing mechanism from which judgments may be made
borescopes or other vision-enhancing accessories.” about the condition of a unit to be inspected.”
More specifically for aircraft inspection, on page 292 in Section 10,

Part 2, for optically-aided visual testing of aircraft structure, visual
inspection is defined by what it can do rather than what it is:

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DEFINITION OF VISUAL INSPECTION

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PURPOSE OF VISUAL INSPECTION
Visual inspection is used to:
 Provide an overall assessment of the condition of a

structure, component, or system.
 Provide early detection of defects before they reach critical
size.
 Detect errors in the manufacturing process.
 Obtain more information about the condition of a component
showing evidence of a defect.
In many situations, no reliable alternative exists to visual

inspection.
Visual procedures are mandated by the Aeronautical Authority

(responsible for the issue of Type Certified) for structural
inspections to support Supplementary Structural Inspection
Documents (SSIDs), Service Bulletins (SBs), and Airworthiness
Directives (ADs).

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PURPOSE OF VISUAL INSPECTION

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SIMPLE VISUAL INSPECTION AIDS
It should be emphasized that the eye-mirror-flashlight is a critical (If rechargeable, how many hours of continuous use and how
visual inspection process. Aircraft structure and components that long is required for recharging?) If possible, it would be best to
must be routinely inspected are frequently located beneath skin, take it apart and inspect for quality of construction and to actually
cables, tubing, control rods, pumps, actuators, etc. Visual use the flashlight like it would be used in the field. Inspection
inspection aids such as a powerful flashlight, a mirror with a ball flashlights are available in several different bulb brightness levels:
joint, and a 2 to 10 power magnifying glass are essential in the
inspection process. 1) Standard incandescent (for long-battery life).
2) Krypton (for 70 percent more light than standard bulbs).
Flashlights. Flashlights used for aircraft inspection should be 3) Halogen (for up to 100 percent more light than standard
suitable for industrial use and, where applicable, safety approved bulbs).
by the Underwriters Laboratory or equivalent agency as suitable for 4) Xenon (for over 100 percent more light than standard
use in hazardous atmospheres such as aircraft fuel tanks. Military bulbs).
Specification MIL-F-3747E, flashlights: plastic case, tubular
(regular, explosion-proof, explosion-proof heat resistant, traffic Inspection Mirrors. An inspection mirror is used to view an area
directing, and inspection-light), provides requirements for that is not in the normal line of sight. The mirror should be of the
flashlights suitable for use in aircraft inspection. However, at the appropriate size to easily view the component, with the reflecting
present time, the flashlights covered by this specification use surface free of dirt, cracks, worn coating, etc., and a swivel joint
standard incandescent lamps and there are no standardized tight enough to maintain its setting.
performance tests for flashlights with the brighter bulbs: Krypton,
Halogen, and Xenon. Each flashlight manufacturer currently Simple Magnifiers. A single converging lens, the simplest form
develops its tests and provides information on its products in its of a microscope, is often referred to as a simple magnifier.
advertising literature. Therefore, when selecting a flashlight for use Magnification of a single lens is determined by the equation M =
in visual inspection, it is sometimes difficult to directly compare 10/f. In this equation, “M” is the magnification, “f” is the focal
products. The following characteristics should be considered when length of the lens in inches, and “10” is a constant that represents
selecting a flashlight: foot-candle rating; explosive atmosphere the average minimum distance at which objects can be distinctly
rating; beam spread (adjustable, spot, or flood); efficiency (battery seen by the unaided eye. Using the equation, a lens with a focal
usage rate); brightness after extended use; and rechargeable or length of 5 inches has a magnification of 2, or is said to be a two-
standard batteries. power lens.
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VISUAL INSPECTION AIDS

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Borescopes. These instruments are long, tubular, precision optical Optical Designs. Typical designs for the optical connection
instruments with built-in illumination, designed to allow remote between the borescope viewing end and the distal tip are:
visual inspection of internal surfaces or otherwise inaccessible
areas. The tube, which can be rigid or flexible with a wide variety of 1) A rigid tube with a series of relay lenses;
lengths and diameters, provides the necessary optical connection 2) A flexible or rigid tube with a bundle of optical fibers; and
between the viewing end and an objective lens at the distant, or 3) A flexible or rigid tube with wiring that carries the image
distal tip of the borescope. Rigid and flexible borescopes are signal from a Charge Couple Device (CCD) imaging
available in different designs for a variety of standard applications sensor at the distal tip.
and manufacturers also provide custom designs for specialized
applications. These designs can have either fixed or adjustable focusing of the
objective lens at the distal tip. The distal tip may also have prisms
Borescopes Uses. Borescopes are used in aircraft and engine and mirrors that define the direction and field of view. A fiber optic
maintenance programs to reduce or eliminate the need for costly light guide with white light is generally used in the illumination
tear-downs. Aircraft turbine engines have access ports that are system, but ultraviolet light can also be used to inspect surfaces
specifically designed for bores-copes. Borescopes are also used treated with liquid fluorescent penetrant or to inspect for
extensively in a variety of aviation maintenance programs to contaminants that fluoresce. Some borescopes with long working
determine the airworthiness of difficult-to reach components. lengths use light-emitting diodes at the distal tip for illumination.
Borescopes typically are used to inspect interiors of hydraulic
cylinders and valves for pitting, scoring, porosity, and tool marks;
inspect for cracked cylinders in aircraft reciprocating engines;
inspect turbojet engine turbine blades and combustion cans; verify
the proper placement and fit of seals, bonds, gaskets, and sub-
assemblies in difficult to reach areas; and assess Foreign Object
Damage (FOD) in aircraft, airframe, and powerplants. Borescopes
may also be used to locate and retrieve foreign objects in engines
and airframes.

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TYPICAL BORESCOPE DESIGNS

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VISUAL INSPECTION PROCEDURES
Corrosion can be an extremely critical defect. Therefore, NDI e. Noise. Noise levels while conducting a visual inspection are
personnel should be familiar with the appearance of common types important. Excessive noise reduces concentration, creates
of corrosion and have training and experience on corrosion tension, and prevents effective communication. All these factors
detection on aircraft structure and engine materials. (Reference: will increase the likelihood of errors.
AC 43-4A, Corrosion Control for Aircraft, for additional information
on corrosion. f. Inspection Area Access. Ease of access to the inspection
area has been found to be of major importance in obtaining
a. Preliminary Inspection. Perform a preliminary inspection of the reliable visual inspection results. Access consists of the act of
overall general area for cleanliness, presence of foreign objects, getting into an inspection position (primary access) and doing the
deformed or missing fasteners, security of parts, corrosion, and visual inspection (secondary access). Poor access can affect the
damage. If the configuration or location of the part conceals the inspector’s interpretation of discontinuities, decision making,
area to be inspected, use visual aids such as a mirror or motivation, and attitude.
borescope.
g. Precleaning. Clean the areas or surface of the parts to be
b. Corrosion Treatment. Treat any corrosion found during inspected. Remove any contaminates that might hinder the
preliminary inspection after completing a visual inspection of any discovery of existing surface indications. Do not remove the
selected part or area. protective finish from the part or area prior to inspection. Removal
of the finish may be required at a later time if other NDI
NOTE: Eddy current, radiography, or ultrasonic inspection can techniques are required to verify any visual indications of flaws
determine the loss of metal to corrosion. that are found.
c. Lighting. Provide adequate lighting to illuminate the selected

part or area.
d. Personal Comfort. Personal comfort (temperature, wind, rain,

etc.) of the inspector can be a factor in visual inspection reliability.

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h. Inspection. Carefully inspect the area for discontinuities, using i. Recordkeeping. Document all discrepancies by written report,
optical aids as required. An inspector normally should have photograph, and/or video recording for appropriate evaluation.
available suitable measuring devices, a flashlight, and a mirror. The full value of visual inspection can be realized only if records
are kept of the discrepancies found on parts inspected. The size
1) Surface cracks. When searching for surface cracks with a and shape of the discontinuity and its location on the part should
flashlight, direct the light beam at a 5 to 45-degree angle to be recorded along with other pertinent information, such as
the inspection surface, towards the face. (See figure shown rework performed or disposition. The inclusion on a report of
below) Do not direct the light beam at such an angle that the some visible record of the discontinuity makes the report more
reflected light beam shines directly into the eyes. Keep the complete.
eyes above the reflected light beam during the inspection.
Determine the extent of any cracks found by directing the
light beam at right angles to the crack and tracing its length.
Use a 10-power magnifying glass to confirm the existence of
a suspected crack. If this is not adequate, use other NDI
techniques, such as penetrant, magnetic particle, or eddy
current to verify cracks.
2) Other surface discontinuities. Inspect for other surface

discontinuities, such as: discoloration from overheating;
buckled, bulging, or dented skin; cracked, chafed, split, or
dented tubing; chafed electrical wiring; delaminations of
composites; and damaged protective finishes.

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USING A FLASHLIGHT TO INSPECT FOR CRACKS

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CHARACTERISTICS OF VISUAL INSPECTION
As used in aviation, visual inspection goes beyond “visual,” i.e. Visual inspection also has the ability to find defects in assembled
beyond the electro-magnetic spectrum of visible wavelengths. In a structures as well as components. With remote sensing, e.g.
sense, it is the default inspection technique: if an inspection is not borescopes and mirrors, this insitu characteristic can be
one of the specific NDI techniques (eddy current, X-ray, extended considerably. Visual inspection is the oldest inspection
thermography, etc.) then it is usually classified as visual inspection. technique, in use from the pioneer days of aviation, and it can be
Thus, other senses can be used in addition to the visual sense. argued that all other NDI techniques are enhancements of visual
For example, visual inspection of fasteners typically includes the inspection. Radiographic and D-sight inspection are obvious
action of feeling for fastener/structure relative movement. This extensions of visual inspection, as they give an image that is a
involves active attempts, using the fingers, to move the fastener. one-to-one veridical representation of the original structure, in a
In human factors, this would be classified as tactile or more way not different in principle to the enhancement provided by a
generally haptic inspection. mirror or a magnifying lens. Thus, understanding visual
inspection is in many ways the key to understanding other
A different example is checking control cables for fraying by sliding inspection techniques. The previous reports in this series were
a rag along the cable to see whether it snags. Other examples obvious examples: FPI and borescope inspection. Almost all the
include the sense of smell (fluid leakage, overheated control other NDI techniques (with the exception of some eddy-current
pivots), noise (in bearings or door hinges) and feel of backlash (in and ultrasonic systems, and tap tests for composites) have an
engine blades, also in hinges and bearings). The point is that element of visual inspection. Often the sensing systems have
“visual” inspection is only partially defined by the visual sense, their signals processed in such a way as to provide a one-to-one
even though vision is its main focus. mapping of the output onto the structure being examined. In this
way, they provide a most natural representation of the structure
Visual inspection is of the greatest importance to aviation reliability, and help prevent errors associated with inspector disorientation.
for airframes, power plants and systems. It can indeed detect a Examples would be thermography and radiographic images.
variety of defects, from cracks and corrosion to loosen fasteners, Indeed Section 11, Part 1, of McIntyre and Moore (1993) lists
ill-fitting doors, wear and stretching in control runs and missing specifically the visual testing aspects of leak testing, liquid
components. It is ubiquitous throughout aircraft inspection, so that penetrant, radiography, electromagnetic, magnetic particle, and
few inspectors will perform a specialized NDI task without at least a ultrasonic testing to show the pervasiveness of visual inspection.
“general visual inspection” of the area specified.

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If visual inspection is important and ubiquitous, it is also flexible.

First, visual inspection can often be orders of magnitude more
rapid than NDI techniques. If all inspections were via specialist
NDI techniques, aircraft would spend little time earning revenue.
The ingenuity of NDI personnel and applied physicists has often
been used to speed inspection, e.g. in inaccessible areas thus
avoiding disassembly, but these innovations are for carefully pre-
specified defects in pre-specified locations. The defining
characteristic of visual inspection is its ability to detect a wide
range of defect types and severities across a wide range of
structures.
Clearly, NDI techniques extend the range of human perception of

defects, even to hidden structures, but they are slower and more
focused. For example, an eddy current examination of a
component is designed to find a particular subset of indications
(e.g. cracks) at particular pre-defined locations and orientations.
Thus, for radius cracks, it is highly reliable and sensitive, but it may
not detect cracks around fastener holes without a change to the
probe or procedure. We can contrast the flexibility of visual
inspection, i.e. range of defect types, severities, locations,
orientations, with the specificity of other NDI techniques. Visual
inspection is intended to detect literally any deviation from a correct
structure, but it may only do so for a fairly large severity of
indication. NDI techniques focus on a small subset of defect
characteristics, but are usually more sensitive (and perhaps more
reliable) for this limited subset.

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One final aspect of flexibility for visual inspection is its ability to be

implemented at many different levels. Visual inspection can range
in level from the pilot’s walk-around before departure to the
detailed examination of one section of floor structure for concealed
cracks using a mirror and magnifier. The FAA’s AC-43-204 defines
four levels of visual inspection as follows:
Level 1. Walkaround The walkaround inspection is a general check conducted from ground level to detect discrepancies and to
determine general condition and security.
Level 2. General A general inspection is made of an exterior with selected hatches and openings open or an interior, when
called for, to detect damage, failure, or irregularity.
Level 3. Detailed A detailed visual inspection is an intensive visual examination of a specific area, system, or assembly to
detect damage failure or irregularity. Available inspection aids should be used. Surface preparation and
elaborate access procedures may be required.
Level 4. Special Detailed A special detailed inspection is an intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or assembly to detect
damage, failure, or irregularity. It is likely to make use of specialized techniques and equipment. Intricate
disassembly and cleaning may be required.

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VISUAL INSPECTION LEVELS

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However, other organizations and individuals have somewhat Wenner (2000) notes that one manufacturer of regional transport
different labels and definitions. The ATA’s Specification 100 aircraft categorizes inspection levels as:
defines a General Visual Inspection as:
 Light service
“a check which is a thorough examination of a zone, system,  Light visual
subsystem, component or part, to a level defined by the  Heavy visual
manufacturer, to detect structural failure, deterioration or  Special
damage and to determine the need for corrective
maintenance.” …. adding to the potential confusion. The point to be made is that
level of inspection adds flexibility of inspection intensity, but at the
This aspect of leaving the definition to the manufacturer introduces price of conflicting and subjective definitions. This issue will be
another level of (possibly subjective) judgment into the decision. discussed later in light of research by Wenner (2000) on how
For example, one manufacturer of large transport aircraft defines a practicing inspectors interpret some of these levels.
General Visual Inspection as:
In summary, visual inspection, while perhaps rather loosely
“A visual check of exposed areas of wing lower surface, lower defined, is ubiquitous, forms an essential part of many more
fuselage, door and door cutouts and landing gear bays.” specialized NDI techniques, and is flexible as regards the number
and types of indication it can find and the level at which it is
This same manufacturer defines Surveillance Inspection as: implemented. In order to apply human factors principles to
improving visual inspection reliability, we need to consider the
“A visual examination of defined internal or external structural technical backgrounds of both inspection reliability and human
areas.” factors.
Human factors have been a source of concern to the NDI

community as seen in, for example, the NDE Capabilities Data
Book (1997). This is a systematic application of human factors
principles to the one NDI technique most used throughout the
inspection and maintenance process.

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HUMAN FACTORS IN INSPECTION
NOTE: There have been a number of recent book chapters Humans can operate at several different levels in each function
covering this area, which will be referenced here rather than using depending upon the requirements. Thus, in Search, the operator
the original research sources. functions as a low-level detector of indications, but also as a high-
level cognitive component when choosing and modifying a search
Human factors studies of industrial inspection go back to the pattern. It is this ability that makes humans uniquely useful as
1950’s when psychologists attempted to understand and improve self-reprogramming devices, but equally it leads to more error
this notoriously error-prone activity. From this activity came possibilities. As a framework for examining inspection functions
literature of increasing depth focusing an analysis and modeling of at different levels the skills/rules/knowledge classification of
inspection performance, which complemented the quality control Rasmussen (1983) will be used. Within this system, decisions
literature by showing how defect detection could be improved. are made at the lowest possible level, with progression to higher
Two early books brought much of this accumulated knowledge to levels only being invoked when no decision is possible at the
practitioners: Harris and Chaney (1969) and Drury and Fox (1975). lower level.
Much of the practical focus at that time was on enhanced
inspection techniques or job aids, while the scientific focus was on For most of the functions, operation at all levels is possible.
application of psychological constructs, such as vigilance and Access to an item for inspection is an almost purely mechanical
signal detection theory, to modeling of the inspection task. function, so that only skill-based behavior is appropriate. The
response function is also typically skill-based, unless complex
As a way of providing a relevant context, we use the generic diagnosis of the defect is required beyond mere detection and
functions which comprise all inspection tasks whether manual, reporting. Such complex diagnosis is often shared with others,
automated or hybrid. Table 1 shows these functions, with the e.g. engineers or managers, if the decision involves expensive
specific application to visual inspection. We can go further by procedures such as changing components or delaying flight
taking each function and listing its correct outcome, from which we departure.
can logically derive the possible errors (Table 2).

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FUNCTION VISUAL INSPECTION DESCRIPTION

1. Initiate  All processes up to accessing the component.
 Get and read work card.
 Assemble and calibrate required equipment.
2. Access  Locate and access inspection area.

 Be able to see the area to be inspected at a close enough level to ensure reliable detection.
3. Search  Move field of view across component to ensure adequate coverage.

 Carefully scan field of view using a good strategy.
 Stop search if an indication is found.
4. Decision  Identify indication type.

 Compare indication to standards for that indication type.
5. Response  If indication confirmed, then record location and details.

 Complete paperwork procedures.
 Remove equipment and other job aids from work area and return to storage.
 If indication not confirmed, continue search (3).
TABLE 1. GENERIC FUNCTION DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATION TO VISUAL INSPECTION

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FUNCTION CORRECT OUTCOME LOGICAL ERRORS

1. Initiate Inspection equipment functional, correctly calibrated and 1.1 Incorrect equipment
capable. 1.2 Non-working equipment
1.3 Incorrect calibration
1.4 Incorrect or inadequate system knowledge
2. Access Item presented to inspection system 2.1 Wrong item presented

2.2 Item mis-presented
2.3 Item damaged by presentation
3. Search Indications of all possible non-conformities detected, located 3.1 Indication missed
3.2 False indication detected
3.3 Indication mis-located
3.4. Indication forgotten before decision
4. Decision All indications located by Search correctly measured and 4.1 Indication incorrectly measured/confirmed
classified, correct outcome decision reached 4.2 Indication incorrectly classified
4.3 Wrong outcome decision
4.4 Indication not processed
5. Response Action specified by outcome decision taken correctly 5.1 Non-conforming action taken on conforming item
5.2 Conforming action taken on non-conforming item
5.3 Action incomplete
TABLE 2. GENERIC FUNCTIONS AND ERRORS FOR VISUAL INSPECTION

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VISUAL INSPECTION
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURE

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A320 FAMILY
There are three types of Inspections:
Detailed Inspection (DI): Special Detailed Inspection (SDI)
An intensive examination of a specific item, installation or An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or
assembly to detect damage, failure or irregularity. assembly to detect damage, failure or irregularity. The
examination is likely to make extensive use of specialized
Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of Inspection Techniques and/or equipment. Intricate cleaning and
good lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. substantial access or disassembly procedure may be required.
Inspection aids such as mirrors, magnifying lenses etc., may be

necessary. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures
may be required.
General Visual Inspection (GVI):
A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation or

assembly to detect obvious damage, failure or irregularity. This
level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless
otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual
access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of
inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions
such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight or drop-light and may
require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands,
ladders or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area
being checked.

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SUPERJET RRJ-95B
This subject contains the tasks:
General Visual Inspection Special Detailed Inspection
Visual estimation of the zone of internal or external portion of Comprehensive inspection of the particular element(s), unit or
structure, unit or assembly for detection of the visual damage, assembly for detection of the damage, failure or deviations. The
failure or deviation. his level of inspection is performed at the inspection stipulates intensive use of the special methods and
close distance, unless otherwise specified. It is required to use monitoring procedures and/or equipment. Complex procedures of
mirror to provide access to all surfaces of the area under surface cleaning and provision of access, or disassembling
inspection. This inspection is performed under usual lighting procedures can be required.
conditions, such as daylight, hangar lighting, flash-light, or window
light, and can require removal or opening of the access panels and Check (visual inspection, level check, compression check,
doors. The access platforms, ladders or platforms can be required pressure check etc.)
for close access to the inspected area.
Detailed Inspection
Comprehensive visual inspection of the particular element, system,

unit or assembly for detection of the damage, failure or deviations.
Available lighting is usually accompanied with direct satisfactory
light source with intensity acceptable for the Inspector. Use
auxiliary monitoring devices, such as mirrors, manual lens etc.
Procedure for cleaning of the access surface can be required.

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AMM DEFINITION OF TERMS AIRCRAFT STATUS FOR MAINTENANCE
Currently the AMM provide critical information to the operators, The aircraft must comply with the following configuration prior
remember always should be OBEY this information. to maintenance:
The following terms are used in the AMM:  The aircraft is on the ground resting on landing gear
(wheel chocks are installed under the wheels; safety pins
WARNING: CALLS ATTENTION TO USE OF METHODS, of landing gear extended position are installed);
PROCEDURES OR LIMITS WHICH MUST BE FOLLOWED  The engine is shut down, the thrust reverser doors are
PRECISELY TO AVOID ACCIDENTS. closed and locked;
 The flaps, slats, flight and ground spoilers are in retracted
CAUTION: CALLS ATTENTION TO METHODS AND position;
PROCEDURES WHICH MUST BE FOLLOWED TO AVOID  The aircraft electrical network is de-energized;
DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.  The hydraulic systems are depressurized;
 All circuit breakers are in closed position;
NOTE: Calls attention to the methods which make the job  Access to the flight compartment and passenger cabin is
easier or provide supplementary or explanatory information. available;
 All controls are in NORM, AUTO or OFF.
In case it is required to change the aircraft configuration during

maintenance, this configuration is included in “Job Set-Up”
section of the task description.

ATA 00 General

CONCLUSION:
General Visual (Surveillance) Inspection (GVI)
A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure or irregularity. This level
of inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to enhance visual
access to all exposed surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as
daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight or drop-light and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders or
platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked.

ATA 00 General

ELECTRICAL WIRING INTERCONNECT

SYSTEMS (EWIS)
GENERAL VISUAL INSPECTION (GVI)

ATA 00 General

EWIS MAINTENANCE PRACTICES
A new phrase has been developed to promote, the correct attitude A Detailed Inspection (DET): In respect of EWIS on occasion an
to managing the EWIS environment, EWIS maintenance intensive examination of wiring or other installation may be
practices should contain a "protect, clean as you go" required it is a specific requirement focused on an item,
housekeeping philosophy. This requires, to be taken to protect wire installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure or irregularity.
bundles and connectors during work, and to ensure that all swarf, Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source
shavings, debris and other contamination are cleaned up after of good lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection
work is completed. aids such as mirrors, magnifying lenses or other means may be
necessary. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures
To consider the Term GVI when associated with Electrical Wiring may be required.
Interconnect Systems General Visual Inspection (GVI): A visual
examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or assembly AMC 20-22 makes It very clear as to the requirements which are
to detect obvious damage, failure or irregularity. This level of to be complied with to ensure the organization remains in
inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise conformity with EASA regulatory requirements. Ultimately in
specified. A mirror may be necessary to enhance visual access to accordance with the terms of the approval issued to Operators
all exposed surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection and MRO’s It is the Operators and Maintenance Organization
is made under normally available lighting conditions such as Responsibility to comply with the requirements of Electrical
daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight or droplight and may require Wiring Interconnect Systems working practices and procedures
removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders or EWIS as specified in AMC 20-22.
platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being
checked. NOTE. - AC 43-206 Part 01 and 02 provide a easer guide to
understand the concepts of: damage, cleaning, dirt, and provide
A Stand-alone General Visual Inspection (GVI): A GVI which is the working practices.
not performed as part of a zonal inspection. Even in cases where
the interval coincides with the zonal inspection, the stand-alone
GVI shall remain an independent step within the work card. The
Stand Alone GVI becomes an essential element of the EWIS
Inspection process for aircraft which are not managed in
accordance with the requirements of MSG3.
ATA 00 General

EWIS – MAINTENANCE PRACTICES


General Visual Inspection: Airframe and Power Plant Systems

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AIRFRAME AND POWER PLANT SYSTEMS

AIRCRAFT Power Plant & Airframe / Avionics

GENERAL VISUAL INSPECTION

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL HAS BEEN PREPARATED

AT MOMENT OF ELABORATION ITS CONSIDERED UPDATED, ALL

THE INFORMATION FOR FIELD JOBS MUST BE OBTAINED FROM

LA INFORMACIÓN CONTENIDA EN ESTE MANUAL HA SIDO ELABORADA

AL MOMENTO DE LA ELABORACIÓN DE ESTA INFORMACIÓN SE

LA INFORMACIÓN PARA LOS TRABAJOS EN LA AERONAVE DEBERÁ DE

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

ATA TOPIC PAGE

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

LEFT IN BLANK INTENTIONALLY

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

GENERAL VISUAL BACKGROUND

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS TO CARRY OUT

Inspections are the most important task that we perform. It is also

It is just as important that the owner/operator understand their

Many times, there is a misunderstanding that the owner/operator

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

GENERAL DESCRIPTION SIGNIFICANCE

Visual inspection is an essential part or de airplane maintenance.

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

VISUAL INSPECTION – GENERAL DESCRIPTION

DEFINITION OF VISUAL INSPECTION

More specifically for aircraft inspection, on page 292 in Section 10,

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

DEFINITION OF VISUAL INSPECTION

PURPOSE OF VISUAL INSPECTION

Visual inspection is used to:

 Provide an overall assessment of the condition of a

In many situations, no reliable alternative exists to visual

Visual procedures are mandated by the Aeronautical Authority

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

PURPOSE OF VISUAL INSPECTION

SIMPLE VISUAL INSPECTION AIDS

VISUAL INSPECTION AIDS

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

TYPICAL BORESCOPE DESIGNS

VISUAL INSPECTION PROCEDURES

c. Lighting. Provide adequate lighting to illuminate the selected

d. Personal Comfort. Personal comfort (temperature, wind, rain,

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

2) Other surface discontinuities. Inspect for other surface

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

USING A FLASHLIGHT TO INSPECT FOR CRACKS

CHARACTERISTICS OF VISUAL INSPECTION

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

If visual inspection is important and ubiquitous, it is also flexible.

Clearly, NDI techniques extend the range of human perception of

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

One final aspect of flexibility for visual inspection is its ability to be

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

VISUAL INSPECTION LEVELS

Human factors have been a source of concern to the NDI

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

HUMAN FACTORS IN INSPECTION

FOR TRAINING PURPOSE ONLY Effectivity:

FUNCTION VISUAL INSPECTION DESCRIPTION

2. Access  Locate and access inspection area.