TURN-TIME STUDY PROCESS
A turn-time study typically includes a review of the following areas, with the airline determining which activities may require special attention:
- Coordination and scheduling of labor.
- Line maintenance.
- Organizational structure.
- Outstation (as required).
- Quality assurance and control.
- Ramp safety.
- Ramp/terminal operations.
- Technical policies and procedures.
- Training.
- GSE.
- Ramp policies and procedures.
- Sequence of events.
A study begins with a visit by a Boeing team to an airline site and outstation to analyze detailed records on all aspects of the ramp operations (see fig. 1). Using analytical methods and standards, the team then identifies inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement in the following areas:
- Cabin grooming.
- Cargo loading and unloading.
- Fueling.
- Galley servicing.
- Meal and beverage provisioning.
- Passenger boarding and deplaning.
- Potable water replenishment.
- Preflight check.
Figure 1
The team also conducts detailed interviews with all levels of management and other ramp and terminal operations personnel. Topics addressed include organization and job descriptions; employed policies and procedures; maintenance and overhaul capabilities; and GSE, safety, and performance measurement methods.