Enhancing Field Issue Resolution Workflow for Compressor Components

Abstract

Field investigations of compressor components are essential to maintaining aircraft engine reliability and fleet availability, but investigation closure times are often extended due to incomplete intake data and sequential engineering coordination. This study evaluates compressor component investigation workflows within a centralized aerospace engineering support organization and develops process improvements using Agile engineering management principles. A baseline review of four representative investigation cases, supported by stakeholder interviews and workflow mapping, identified primary delay drivers and coordination challenges. Improvement initiatives were implemented through two Agile sprints focusing on intake data standardization and workflow execution efficiency. The improvements were integrated into a future-state workflow model incorporating mandatory intake checklists, parallel multidisciplinary engineering assessments, early quality and safety engagement, and centralized investigation tracking. The proposed workflow is expected to reduce investigation closure time by approximately 25 to 35% while improving communication efficiency and technical consistency. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of Agile methodologies in improving multidisciplinary aerospace investigation workflows. Key Terms ⎯ Agile engineering management; Aerospace field investigations; Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO); Process standardization.