Analysis of a proposal to consolidate aircraft intermediate maintenance capabilities

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the potential for consolidating duplicate maintenance capabilities of Navy Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Departments (AIMDs) located in the same geographical area. The expected benefits and drawbacks of consolidation are examined. The benefits discussed include manpower reduction, support equipment reduction, inventory reduction, and increased productivity. The drawbacks discussed include increased transportation costs, facilities modification costs, impacts on customer service, additional maintenance management and administrative responsibilities, and reduced military resiliency. The thesis discusses options regarding the organizational and service levels consolidated, candidates for consolidation, locations of consolidated repair capabilities, and management of consolidated items. The thesis also analyzes the commonality in manning, automatic test equipment, and specific component repair capabilities of the two AIMDs located in San Diego, California: Naval Air Station North Island AIMD and Naval Air Station Miramar AIMD.