On Saturday, January 25, 2014 8:40:31 AM UTC-5, Mr. Luddite wrote:


The main thing that turned me off to commercial flying was some
knowledge I gained of the industry while working. For example, the
engines in jets and prop driven aircraft are routinely rebuilt after so
many hours. It used to be that the engine manufacturer (GE, Pratt &
Whitney, etc.) did the rebuilding and testing. Not so much anymore.
Airlines farm out the rebuilding to third party companies who, although
governed by FAA and manufacturer's specs and requirements, get the
contracts by submitting the lowest bid.

I got to tour Delta's jet base at Atlanta's Hartsfield airport 20+ years ago. Amazing place. They rebuilt their own airplanes, including the engines.. They had two bunkers where they test ran them after rebuilding. Also had everything else required, even an upholstery shop. Went into a hangar on side of the building where they had seven (!) large jets in various stages of rebuilding in one large room. Oh, and a paint booth, too. Walked through an L-1011 that was stripped of its interior, the wiring and plumbing was amazing.

Don't know if they still do all that stuff themselves. Delta was a first class company back then. Not so sure they are the same now.