Repaint of a 25 Year Old Cessna 560XL at Lelystad Airport

Managing a Repaint Project with Multiple Technical Repairs

Coordinated Delivery Under Time Pressure

When aircraft presentation and availability are both critical, repaint projects demand more than just paint quality. They require precise planning, constant coordination, and the ability to solve unexpected findings without losing control of the schedule.

In early November, a business jet required a repaint. As this was the operator’s only aircraft, returning it to service as quickly as possible was essential. The project started on November 3 and concluded with release to service on Monday evening December 1.

Findings Beyond the Paint Scope

Although no corrosion was found, several technical issues emerged during the paint process. These included damage to an aileron, a damaged rudder trailing edge, a faulty angle of attack vane, and a cracked wiper fairing. The latter proved particularly challenging as a replacement part was no longer available through standard channels.

Each finding required assessment, approval, and repair without disrupting the overall paint schedule.

Daily Coordination and Partner Network

Paint projects leave little margin for delay. JetSupport remained in daily contact with the paint facility to align planning and adjust tasks as findings emerged. Internal preparation ensured that repairs could be executed during the planned paint input.

Multiple specialised partners were involved to resolve the findings correctly.

This level of coordination allowed all repairs to be completed in parallel with the paint process rather than sequentially.

Flexibility in Execution

To maintain control over timing, the aircraft weighing was performed using jack pads instead of external weighing services. This provided flexibility to complete the weighing exactly when the project plan allowed, avoiding unnecessary waiting time.

The project also reinforced an important operational lesson. Parts that appear common are not always procurable. Early evaluation of repair options can be critical to keeping projects on schedule.

Result and Operator Impact

The aircraft was released to service on schedule with a fresh exterior and all technical findings fully resolved. For the operator the result was more than a new look. Their clients now step on board an aircraft that presents like new, without extended downtime or compromised quality.

This repaint project demonstrates JetSupport’s ability to manage complex maintenance events involving multiple stakeholders, technical findings, and tight timelines. Clear planning, daily communication, and ownership of the full scope ensured a successful outcome where availability mattered most.

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