Comparative Economic Analysis of Aircraft Maintenance Expenses and Operational Revenue: A Present Value Approach for Fleet Profitability

Abstract

In the current era of intensifying global competition within the aviation industry, the strategic management of aircraft maintenance
expenditures has emerged as a critical determinant of commercial success. Beyond ensuring airworthiness, efficient maintenance protocols directly influence an airline’s operational readiness, allowing for maximized aircraft utilization. When executed with precision and timeliness, these technical interventions significantly stabilize the profit‑and‑loss equilibrium of the carrier. Furthermore, while the primary objective of maintenance is the provision of rigorous safety and security standards, it also serves as a potent instrument for institutional marketing and service reliability. This study presents a longitudinal investigation into the maintenance expenditures of commercial passenger aircraft over a ten‑year horizon within an aviation economics framework. By integrating maintenance costs with comprehensive operational overheads, the research establishes a robust framework for assessing fleet‑based profitability. A central contribution of this work is the development of a diagnostic model that facilitates comparative profit‑loss analyses across specific aircraft types. By delineating cost metrics such as “cost per flight hour” and “cost per available seat”, the study provides air carriers with the empirical tools necessary for informed fleet procurement. Ultimately, this methodology empowers stakeholders to evaluate historical data against future value projections (present value), thereby optimizing investment decisions
and enhancing long‑term corporate viability.