Unit of competency details

This unit of competency is part of the Mechanical Certificate IV (Aircraft Maintenance Stream) training pathway. It may also be part of a Structures Maintenance Certificate IV training pathway. This unit covers the competencies required for the removal and installation of both structural and non-structural components of non-pressurised fixed and rotary wing aircraft. This unit is used in workplaces that operate under the airworthiness regulatory systems of the ADF and CASA.

Where a CASA licensing outcome is sought this unit forms part of the CASA requirement for the granting of the chosen Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licence under CASR Part 66, in accordance with the licensing provisions in Section 3, Assessment Guidelines.

This unit requires application of hand skills and maintenance publications to remove and install structural and non-structural components from non-pressurised aircraft.

Applications include both fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

MEA302C

Remove and install aircraft hydro-mechanical and landing gear system components

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

1. Remove components

1.1. Structure is supported and prepared in accordance with the applicable maintenance manual to ensure personnel safety and freedom from damage to aircraft or component during component  removal

1.2. Component removal is carried out in accordance with the applicable maintenance manual

1.3. Required maintenance documentation is completed and processed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures

1.4. Where applicable, removed components are tagged and prepared for transport in accordance with specified procedures

2. Install components

2.1. Structural and/or non-structural components to be installed are checked to confirm correct part numbers, serviceability and modification status

2.2. Component installation is carried out in accordance with the applicable maintenance manual

2.3. Support/safety equipment is removed at an appropriate time to ensure personnel safety and freedom from structural damage

2.4. Required maintenance documentation is completed and processed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures

Required skills 

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

• applying relevant OHS practices, including the use of MSDS and PPE
• using relevant maintenance documentation and aircraft manuals to:

• remove and install structural and non-structural components
• remove and install aircraft interior fittings
• remove and install doors, door seals, windows and transparent panels
• checking and adjusting all doors and access panels including locking mechanisms
• remove and install emergency equipment

Required knowledge 

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

• structural and non-structural component methods of construction and attachment, faying surface treatment and fuel tank sealing
• non-pressurised fuselage aircraft doors, related seals and window and transparent panel construction, attachment methods and sealing
• aircraft interior fittings (trim, linings, seats, floor panels, and so on) construction and attachment methods
• the location and attachment or stowage methods for emergency equipment
• relevant OHS practices
• how to obtain MSDS
• use of PPE
• relevant maintenance manuals
• relevant regulatory requirements and standard procedures

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to use maintenance manuals and applicable tools to remove and install removable structural and non-structural components from non-pressurised aircraft while observing all relevant safety precautions.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

The underlying skills inherent in this unit should be transferable into other units that require similar techniques. It is essential that shoring, trestling and lifting requirements and safety precautions applicable to the structure being maintained are fully observed, understood and complied with.

Evidence of transferability of skills and knowledge related to removal and installation is essential. This may be demonstrated through application across a representative range of the areas listed in the Range Statement. An understanding of component handling, attachment methods, adjustment and sealing as it relates to the work must be demonstrated before undertaking any action. The work plan should take account of applicable safety and quality requirements in accordance with the industry and regulatory standards.

A person cannot be assessed as competent until it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the workplace assessor that the relevant elements of the unit of competency are being achieved under routine supervision on at least one item from each Group 1 to 6, as listed in the Range Statement. This shall be established via the records in the Log of Industrial Experience and Achievement or, where appropriate, an equivalent Industry Evidence Guide.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Competency should be assessed in the work environment or simulated work environment using tools and equipment specified in maintenance manuals. It is also expected that general-purpose tools, test and ground support equipment found in most routine situations would be used where appropriate.

Method of assessment 

Guidance information for assessment 

Individuals being assessed who have already attained MEA363B Inspect, repair and maintain structures and related components of non-pressurised small aircraft, will have met most of the requirements for this unit. Log of Industrial Experience and Achievement records relating to MEA363B Inspect, repair and maintain structures and related components of non-pressurised small aircraft, may be accepted as also meeting the evidence requirements for this unit in the applicable areas.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Note 

Range statements listed below are numbered to facilitate specification of the assessment requirements included in the Evidence Guide

Removable components of structure 

Removable components of structure are those that are installed using bolts and/or screws. Where component removal and installation requires the removal and installation of rivets the applicable unit is either:

• MEA311D Inspect and repair/modify aircraft structures,
• MEA339C Inspect, repair and maintain aircraft structures, or
• MEA423A Aircraft structure major disassembly and reassembly

Components may include:

1. Removable components of wings, tail booms, pylons, empennage, skids, fairings and nacelles

2. Removable components or sections of non-pressurised fuselages

3. Non-pressurised fuselage entry, cargo, access doors and associated seals (including checking and adjustment of all doors and access panels and associated locking mechanisms)

4. Non-pressurised fuselage windows and transparent panels

5. Where applicable, trim panels, linings, seats, cabin equipment and consoles, floor panels and coverings

6. Applicable emergency equipment (including passenger escape systems, life jackets, rafts, location transmitters, beacons, crew and passenger seat restraints)

Sealant removal and application 

The removal and application of faying (contact or overlapping) surface and fuel tank sealants is included, where applicable

Application 

Application of this unit may relate to:

• scheduled or unscheduled maintenance activities
• individual or team-related activities

Procedures and requirements 

Refer to industry standard procedures specified by manufacturers, regulatory authorities or the enterprise