What are the responsibilities of aircraft systems integrators?

2 System design

Another key responsibility of aircraft systems integrators is to design the system in accordance with the system architecture and the customer and regulatory requirements. The system design involves selecting, configuring, and integrating the subsystems and components, such as avionics, propulsion, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, flight control, navigation, communication, and environmental control systems. The system design also involves defining the interfaces, protocols, data flows, and control logic among the subsystems and components. Aircraft systems integrators need to have a strong technical background and expertise in various engineering disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, software, and aerospace engineering.

3 System testing

A crucial responsibility of aircraft systems integrators is to test the system to verify and validate its functionality, performance, reliability, and safety. The system testing involves conducting various types of tests, such as bench tests, ground tests, flight tests, and certification tests, using appropriate tools, methods, and procedures. The system testing also involves analyzing the test results, identifying and resolving any issues or defects, and documenting and reporting the test findings and recommendations. Aircraft systems integrators need to have a rigorous and analytical mindset and skills in data collection, processing, and interpretation.

4 System optimization

A vital responsibility of aircraft systems integrators is to optimize the system to improve its efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability. The system optimization involves applying various techniques, such as modeling, simulation, analysis, and experimentation, to evaluate the system performance under different conditions and scenarios, and to identify and implement any possible enhancements or modifications. The system optimization also involves considering the impacts of the system on the environment, the economy, and the society, and adopting any measures to reduce or mitigate them. Aircraft systems integrators need to have a creative and innovative thinking and skills in problem-solving and decision-making.

5 System maintenance

An essential responsibility of aircraft systems integrators is to maintain the system to ensure its availability, functionality, and safety throughout its lifecycle. The system maintenance involves performing various tasks, such as inspection, diagnosis, repair, replacement, upgrade, and calibration of the subsystems and components. The system maintenance also involves monitoring the system performance and health, collecting and analyzing the system data, and providing feedback and support to the customers and operators. Aircraft systems integrators need to have a reliable and customer-oriented attitude and skills in communication and collaboration.

6 System management

A significant responsibility of aircraft systems integrators is to manage the system integration project and ensure its successful completion within the budget, schedule, and quality parameters. The system management involves planning, organizing, coordinating, and controlling the system integration activities, resources, and deliverables. The system management also involves communicating and collaborating with the internal and external stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, regulators, and team members, and managing their expectations, requirements, and feedback. Aircraft systems integrators need to have a solid and professional project management and leadership skills and knowledge.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?