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

International Journal of Transportation Research and Technology, cilt.3, sa.1, ss.58-70, 2026 (Hakemli Dergi)

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.