Corona; how do aircraft get layed up

[JeroenD]

Due to the Corona virus a staggering amount of aircraft has already been parked on the ground. It is a situation that is likely to last many months. I have read some insights about mothballing planes, but I am more interested in what it takes to retire an aircraft for say 3-6 months. Which is likely to be the case now.

I own several classic cars and due to extensive periods being stationed abroad I have had to lay up my cars for anything up to 12 months. I daresay a modern jetliner requires some more attention prior to and during the lay off period.

What are the procedures for laying up a modern aircraft for some months? Is fuel removed (on cars most would actually fill the tank to the brim!). Are there regular checks performed, how do they keep the batteries healthy. Do the engines and or other systems get run once in a while?

What checks and maintenance routines need doing before returning it to operational status?

thanks for any insights.

Jeroen

[DaveReidUK]

Taking aircraft out of service for a prolonged period and then putting them back into service is a long-established practice.

Here's a checklist, albeit written for bizjets, but the principles for airliners are pretty similar: Mothballing Your Airplane

[SanHor]

If you have Facebook. Transavia released a behind the scenes from the maintenance point of view for storing the 737’s.

Might be also on Youtube, but maybe without subtitles.

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