Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO) is a part of EASA’s Implementing Rules EU 1321/2014, Continuing Airworthiness. A CAMO manages, and is responsible for all continuing airworthiness activities such as the development and compliance of the maintenance program, reliability program, Airworthiness Directive compliance, Service Bulletin evaluation and embodiment, test flights, coordinating defect rectification and the safekeeping of accurate aircraft records. Like any aviation organization, a CAMO must fulfill all requirements and is audited by authorities.
While some airlines have their own CAMO, many airlines have moved towards subcontracting CAMO to other independent organizations. For many players in the aviation industry, this has been proven to be the way to go. Subcontracting CAMO brings about a string of positive effects, including:
1. Cheaper Operations
Source: www.kiplinger.com
By subcontracting CAMO, operators can save at least 50% on overhead costs. This may sound like a far-fetched figure, but considering the following, it is highly possible:
As with all forms of outsourcing, operators can reduce the number of staff hired, and hence, the cost of labour. Direct Maintenance Costs (DMC) can also be decreased. Another major saving is in software licensing costs. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software licenses (SAP, AMOS, etc.) can cost operators up to several millions, and more often than not, the fleet size requires only a small percentage of the software to be utilized. By subcontracting, operators do not need to purchase the license but rather, can utilize what the contracted organization has. This is more economically productive because various operators can utilize the same software, through an independent organization servicing several operators.
For smaller airliners (or operators that are starting up), subcontracting CAMO can be especially beneficial as it allows operators to gain access to experienced manpower and knowledge.
2. Reduces Human Resources (HR) Problems
Source: www.hrhelpillinois.org
Reducing the number of employees inevitably decreases issues regarding Human Resources. As a result, efficiency can be boosted as employee wellbeing is improved.
3. Increases Reliability and Safety
Source: www.asms-pro.com
Due to high licensing fees, some airlines have been known to analyze data using simple spreadsheet programs rather than with actual ERP software. Not only does this increase the opportunity for error, miscalculations can also cause aviation safety issues – this should not be the case in a strictly regulated industry where safety is crucial.
By outsourcing CAMO to a team of highly skilled experts, human error can be reduced, while increasing safety and efficiency.
4. Operators Can Focus On What They Do Best
Source: www.imore.com
Every airline’s main goal is to transport passengers to their destinations efficiently and safely. By outsourcing CAMO, airlines can focus on their main purpose, and let the subcontracted organization handle the rest.
A CAMO that services multiple operators can provide services at a much lower rate. In other words, airliners will be able pool their resources to reduce costs and maximize efficiency.
Dviation is set to provide CAMO services as an independent organization, making them one of the first few in the nation to do so. The services will be available to airlines, as well as private aircraft operators, aerial survey operators and flight training schools. Visit www.dviation.com or email [email protected] for more info!