No Pilot likes a surprise, and we don't like giving them.
While some maintenance surprises are inevitable, some shops seem to think it is okay to present you a bill for multi-thousands of dollars without involving you.
We don't do that here.
A Waypoint Aviation Maintenance Annual is done in 3 parts:
1. Initial Inspection, Oil Change, and Squawk List
We will perform a comprehensive inspection of your aircraft condition, using factory service manuals and checklists.
We will change your motor oil and inspect the oil filter for contaminants.
We will generate a log entry which specifies the Annual Inspection was completed, and a squawk list was furnished to the owner.
2. Squawk List and authorization
Most owners opt for their aircraft's squawks to be addressed at the time of inspection, and we can do that for you. What we won't do is service your aircraft with an "open checkbook" mentality. Squawks will be presented to you in the following format:
"Airworthiness" Squawk - This is an item that must be addressed before your next flight. We will indicate why.
"Recommended" Squawk - This is an item that is serviceable but exhibiting signs of wear and imminent need for replacement. A typical example would be brake pads which are worn, but will probably need replacing in the next 30 hours. Also, we may recommend certain repairs/replacements when the wear will progress to more expensive parts if left unchanged. These are always at the discretion of the aircraft owner.
"Optional" Squawk - This is an item which is not an airworthiness item, but one which we noticed. Examples are usually worn or torn trim and cosmetic items, non-airworthiness items which can be placarded "inop" (ADF reciver for example), or other items which do not ever need fixing. These are always at the owner's discretion.
All squawks will include a reasonable estimate of parts and labor cost, and any alternative, STC, or other parts sources to consider.
3. Squawk repairs
Once the owner has indicated the items which he would like us to repair, we proceed immediately. If the owner opts for us to repair all "Airworthiness" squawks, then he will be supplied with a new log entry specifying that an Annual Inspection was completed, and the aircraft is airworthy.
...that's it!
We find that including the owner in the process aids in understanding, and provides things to "keep an eye on" for the next year of operation, and really makes the whole process go much more smoothly for everyone. If you agree, and wish to give us a try, feel free to call us anytime to schedule your aircraft visit today!