Aircraft parts cannibalization
Aircraft parts cannibalization is a maintenance process in which a component is removed from a serviceable aircraft or piece of equipment and installed on another to replace a defective component.
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IBM describes cannibalization as a relatively common practice requiring rigorous management and control to maintain regulatory and safety compliance. It also identifies efficiency as a priority because the process is typically used under operational pressure and tight deadlines.
VerifiedIBM's workflow includes a work order against the donor aircraft or equipment to generate demand for a replacement component from inventory, while the receiver is dispatched into service after its work is completed.
VerifiedCannibalization can be authorized when no replacement component is available from inventory and obtaining one would take longer than the operational schedule allows.
VerifiedIn IBM's documented process, the aircraft or equipment supplying the component is called the donor, and the unserviceable aircraft or equipment receiving it is called the receiver. The component is removed from the designated donor and inspected before installation on the receiver.
VerifiedIn IBM's documented workflow, inventory reservations made against the receiver aircraft or equipment must be canceled or transferred to the donor after the component transfer.
VerifiedIBM's documentation contrasts cannibalization with regular maintenance, in which a replacement component is issued from inventory, installed, and followed by completion of the work and release of the aircraft or equipment into service.
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