The aviation industry has always been a leader in innovation.
New technologies often mean safer and more efficient operations, and augmented reality (AR) is no exception. With AR, technicians and mechanics can access real-time information, 3D visualizations, and more while performing maintenance tasks.
In this ArborXR guide, we do a deep dive into AR’s use in aviation maintenance and its growing impact on the aviation industry.
What Is Augmented Reality in Aviation Maintenance?
Let’s start with a simpler question—what is augmented reality (AR)?
AR technology uses cameras, specialized processors, motion-tracking devices, and screens (AR headsets, phones, or tablets) to overlay digital information on top of real-world objects. In other words, it lets you interact with physical and digital information simultaneously.
In aviation maintenance, these digital overlays can help technicians:
- Identify parts, serial numbers, and model numbers
- Follow troubleshooting or repair procedures
- Gather data and access manuals
- Communicate with remote experts for guidance and support
Key Applications of AR in Aviation Maintenance
Maintenance Training
Traditionally, aviation maintenance training relies on hefty manuals, lectures, and hands-on practice with real aircraft. These methods are effective, but they’re also very time-consuming and resource-intensive.
With AR, you can create training content that spans a wide range of faults and scenarios. Trainees can use AR devices to see these guides digitally overlaid on the aircraft, providing step-by-step instructions.
In many cases, physical aircraft aren’t required either. You can create 3D aircraft models in the AR environment and simulate scenarios that would be difficult or costly to recreate with physical aircraft.
The United States Air Force is one of the organizations using AR in this way. They use Manifest's AR instruction software for maintenance training and have seen a 53% reduction in errors and an overall improvement in trainee performance.
Aircraft Maintenance Inspection
AR can help you streamline two major aspects of maintenance inspections:
- The inspection process
- Inspection documentation
With AR, your technicians can access procedural manuals directly through wearable devices like AR glasses.
This means no more flipping through pages. Instead, they can view the content hands-free as they carry out inspections. Plus, some AR devices (like Microsoft’s HoloLens 2) let you share your camera feed with experts in remote locations for instant guidance.
On the documentation front, AR headsets let technicians capture images and input data directly into the system without pausing their work. Some devices even support voice commands for hands-free documentation.
Airbus is a great example of an aviation company that uses AR for both inspection processes and documentation.
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
AR can help you optimize troubleshooting and diagnostics in several ways.
For starters, some AR systems can tap into the aircraft's sensor network. Then, they project real-time diagnostic data directly onto the specific component being inspected. This means technicians can instantly see vital statistics like temperature readings, pressure levels, and even error codes.
Other AR systems can even do more heavy lifting for you. They can highlight malfunctioning parts, pinpoint potential causes of the issue, and even suggest troubleshooting steps. All of these eliminate guesswork from your troubleshooting process.
Benefits of Using AR in Maintenance
Reduced Maintenance Time
In aviation, time is money. You need your planes back in the air quickly, so spending too much time on maintenance isn't an option.
AR speeds up the maintenance process. With AR, your technicians can instantly identify issues and focus their efforts precisely where needed. Plus, they won't have to flip through manuals—they can see everything they need right on their devices, which makes the entire process even faster.
Cost-Effective Training
As mentioned, expert technicians don't need to be physically present for AR maintenance training sessions if you have the right content. This cuts down significantly on labor costs. Plus, you can reuse your training content for thousands of trainees, saving even more money in the long run.
Enhanced Safety
AR brings safety benefits in multiple ways—for your trainees, technicians, and passengers.
First, trainees can practice maintenance procedures in a safe AR environment using 3D aircraft models. There is no need to risk anything on real planes. With the "extra eye" AR provides, technicians will also face fewer unexpected scenarios. They’ll be able to spot potential hazards like exposed wires or overheating parts more easily.
Finally, with AR-powered maintenance, you can ensure that every aspect of maintenance is thoroughly checked, making your aircraft safer for passengers.
Deploy AR for Aviation Maintenance at Scale With ArborXR
Scalability is one of the major headaches you’ll have to deal with when deploying AR for aviation maintenance.
Managing one or two headsets manually is easy—installing content and powering them on or off will only take you a few minutes, no problem. But when you're dealing with dozens or hundreds of devices, this quickly turns into a logistical nightmare.
That’s where XR device management tools like ArborXR come in handy.
With our platform, you'll have full control over your entire XR ecosystem—from location tracking and user experience settings to content sourcing and deployment. You can also lock down your trainees’ devices to specific content with Kiosk mode, helping them stay focused.
Whenever you need to update content or devices, the process is quick, painless, and fully remote—no more time is lost to manually plugging devices in and updating them individually.Ready to enjoy a smoother AR workflow? Try ArborXR with a 30-day free trial today.