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Hi Everyone,

I'm looking for some simple software to record and monitor the maintenance status of several aircraft. Rather than peices of paper everywhere, I would like to use a simple database type programme that does the job.

Any ideas?

Cheers

Darryn

I don't think any exists. but you can do it in MS excel

I use Excel and it does a great job.

As you improve you maintenance knowledge, you'll come to realize that some things are based on time, some are based on hours, and a few things are based on both.

I use conditional formatting (red, yellow, or green, depending on value) to keep everything under control.

Start simple. Build it up as you go.

My sheets remind me of my BFR, VOR checks, AOPA renewal, etc-- as well as oil changes, recurring ADs, annuals, and so on.

Steve,
Could you post a sample of how you have your maintaince set up? And what do you mean by the colors? Fonts?

Bill

I'm not too eager to post my spreadsheets.
They contain a lot of financial information that I'd
rather not have the world looking at.

As for the colors, I am taking about what Excel calls "cells".

Normally, each cell has no color (looks white).

So for example, I change my oil every 50 hours.
If the hours to go is greater than 10, the cell color is green. Greater than 0 and less than 10-- yellow.
Less than 0; it's red.

The color schemes vary. Example-- BFR & medical reminders.

Greater than 90 days away; green
Greater than 0; less than 90; yellow
Less than 0; red

Once you get the hang of it, you can track anything.

Filter changes
ELT batteries
AD compliance
Insurance
Tie-down
Magazine subscriptions
VOR checks
Chart expirations

My A&E is the maintenance chief for a fair sized flight school that operates several single engine planes and a few twins. They use an Excel system much like Steve describes. I looked at the source on the spread sheets and it is really quite simple. I think that the Excel approach may be your best bet.

I will try to publish a stripped out version of my system.

It's not magic-- for sure.

But I gotta admit-- it looks like it.

Excel works great, but for a true relational database don't overlook MS Access.

True, but there's nothing about maintenance data that's
relational or even rational.

Agreed... just thought I'd mention another option for an inquiring mind to consider!