5C002E - Aircraft Systems and Structural Repair Practices 01 Sep 2026 - 31 Aug 2032 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: 5C002E
Module Title: Aircraft Systems and Structural Repair Practices
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Engineering
Faculty Sub Group: Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
Module Leader:
Module Team: Bethan Llewellyn
First Intended Intake: SEP 2026 Final Year of Intake: 2031
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 40 Credit Level: 5
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100163 - electrical and electronic engineering
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 0
Valid From 01 Sep 2026
Valid To 31 Aug 2032

Module Aims

To develop learners’ applied understanding and professional competence in aircraft maintenance practices by enabling them to interpret, evaluate, and implement approved maintenance procedures, documentation systems, inspection methods, and workshop processes in accordance with Industry requirements. The module aims to foster analytical judgement, technical accuracy, and regulatory compliance in the planning, performance, and verification of maintenance activities, preparing learners to operate safely and effectively within modern aviation maintenance environments. 

Content Summary

Aircraft maintenance requires strict adherence to safety precautions across both the aircraft environment and the workshop. Learners develop competence in safe working practices, hazard identification, and the correct use of protective equipment, ensuring compliance with regulatory and organisational requirements. This foundation supports effective workshop practices, including tool control, equipment care, and the disciplined organisation of maintenance areas. 

The module introduces the selection, operation and calibration of avionic test equipment, enabling learners to apply diagnostic techniques to electrical and electronic systems. Supporting this, students engage with engineering drawings, diagrams and standards, developing the ability to interpret technical information and apply engineering fit and clearance principles during maintenance tasks. 

A wide range of practical skills are developed, including the handling and installation of electrical cables and connectors, and the execution of riveting and structural repairs. Learners work with pipes, hoses and fittings, and gain experience in the maintenance of springs, bearings, gears and transmissions. Rigging procedures and the adjustment of flight control cables are explored to ensure correct system operation and airworthiness. 

Structural fabrication and repair techniques are covered through aluminium sheet?metal work, welding, brazing and soldering. The module also introduces advanced composite bonding and repair, reflecting modern aircraft construction methods and the specialised skills required to maintain composite structures. 

Operational topics include aircraft weight and balance, aircraft and component storage, and the safe handling and movement of aircraft on the ground. Learners practise disassembly, inspection, repair and assembly techniques, and examine the correct response to abnormal events. Maintenance procedures and check structures are studied to ensure tasks are completed accurately, consistently and in accordance with approved data. 

Finally, the module addresses torque loading principles and the influence of environmental and weather conditions on maintenance activities. These considerations ensure learners understand how external factors affect aircraft systems, materials and maintenance decision?making. 

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Practical classes and workshops 134
Independent Study 146
Directed Study 60
Problem/Challenge-based Learning 60
Total Hours Selected 400

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Learners will be able to interpret and apply approved aircraft maintenance data, procedures and workshop practices to carry out inspection, repair and assembly tasks safely, accurately and in accordance with regulatory requirements. They will demonstrate the ability to evaluate maintenance information, select appropriate tools and equipment, and justify decisions made during practical maintenance activities.
LO2 Learners will be able to analyse and perform maintenance on aircraft structures, mechanical systems, electrical installations and avionic components, including the correct use of test equipment, joining methods, rigging procedures and composite repair techniques. They will demonstrate the capability to assess component condition, determine appropriate corrective actions, and verify maintenance outcomes against engineering standards.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Portfolio Simulated Aircraft Engineering - Individual practical test jobs based on aircraft aluminium structural repairs. Written report based on the practical tests. Lab test- time constrained. Written aircraft task card on assigned task. 180 1500 70 No 40
Synchronous Onsite Assessment  Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Onsite)  Test 90 N/A 30 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Portfolio ✔ ✔
Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Onsite)  ✔ ✔

Reading List

1 United States. Department of Transportation and United States. Federal Aviation Administration (2013) Aviation maintenance technician handbook - airframe. [United States]: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. 

2 Kroes, M.J. (2013) Aircraft maintenance and repair. 7th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education. 

3 Reithmaier, L.W. and Sterkenburg, R. (eds) (2014) Standard aircraft handbook for mechanics and technicians. 7th ed. New York: McGraw Hill Education. 

4 Dorworth, L.C., Gardiner, G.L. and Mellema, G.M. (2009) Essentials of advanced composite fabrication and repair. Newcastle, Wash: Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc. 

5 Crane, D. (2017) Aviation maintenance technician series: General. Fourth edition. Newcastle, Washington: Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc. 

6 Carmody, D.S. (1998) Airplane maintenance and repair: a manual for owners, builders, technicians, and pilots. New York: McGraw- 

7 Hill. Maintenance Practices for B1 Licence (NG2D420) | University of South Wales (talis.com) 

9 Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook - Airframe (no date). Available at: 

https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aircraft/amt_airframe_handbook/.