When an aircraft is grounded for weeks or months, time becomes its worst enemy. Prolonged exposure to the elements, accumulation of dirt, or entry of foreign objects into systems can lead to costly damage and delays in returning to service.
That’s why storage preservation programs are so important. And in this process, elements such as the Red Gear (the “Remove Before Flight” aeronautical signalling devices) and the protection covers become silent protagonists that guarantee that, when flying again, everything works as the first day.
What do we mean by long-term preservation?
Preservation in prolonged standby is not simply parking an airplane and covering it. It involves applying a set of measures designed to protect each aircraft system from corrosion, moisture, contamination or mechanical deterioration.
This is a planned procedure, regulated by the maintenance manuals of each manufacturer, which usually includes everything from the drainage of liquids to the placement of specific covers and signs.
The role of the Red Gear
Within this process, the Red Gear fulfills a double function. On the one hand, it physically protects sensitive inputs such as Pitot probes or static tubes. On the other hand, it acts as a visual reminder for the technical staff, thanks to the characteristic red ribbon with the inscription “Remove Before Flight”.
This avoids both the risk of obstructions during storage and the human error of leaving the protective elements installed before a flight. Their presence is, therefore, a basic pillar in any preservation checklist.
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The function of covers
Covers, or protective covers, expand on this concept. They not only isolate critical areas from dust and dirt, but also protect against adverse environmental conditions such as solar radiation, rain or wind. An unprotected exposed engine can accumulate internal moisture that, over time, leads to corrosion or degradation of components.
A premium cover, on the other hand, adjusts to the geometry of the aircraft and is made of materials resistant to UV rays and thermal variations, ensuring its effectiveness even in prolonged stops in extreme climates.
Essential Preservation Checklist with Red Gear and Covers
Although each manufacturer defines its own procedures, a generic checklist always includes certain key steps. The logic is simple: cover, signal and verify.
Firstly, covers are installed on the engine air intakes and exhaust outlets, making sure that the fit is tight but not aggressive on the surface. Protections are also placed on the Pitot probes, static tubes and pressure taps, all of them accompanied by Red Gear that warns of their presence.
On surfaces such as windshields or cabins, the use of covers prevents degradation by sunlight, while on landing gears or hydraulic systems, covers are used to reduce the accumulation of dust and moisture. Finally, the installation is documented in the maintenance log and the completed checklist is recorded, guaranteeing that each element will be removed in the return to service phase.
Return to service: the other side of the checklist
The process doesn’t end with installation. When the aircraft rejoins the operation, it is essential to have a meticulous review that confirms the removal of all Red Gear covers and devices. This step avoids incidents and ensures that the systems are not obstructed.
Here, the checklist fulfills its second function: to act as a control document that guides the technical team to verify that nothing is installed before the flight.
Indaero’s vision in aeronautical preservation
At Indaero, the manufacture of specialized covers and certified protection devices responds precisely to this need. Our products are designed to withstand harsh environments while making it easier for maintenance personnel to do their jobs with a simple and safe installation.
The combination of Red Gear and high-quality covers is part of the company’s philosophy: to protect the aircraft at every stage of its operational life, whether during a flight cycle, an MRO check or an extended shutdown.
The preservation of an aircraft in storage is much more than an administrative procedure. It is a strategic process that determines how long and how much it will cost to return the aircraft to service. The correct use of Red Gear and covers makes the difference between a quick and safe return or a series of delays caused by avoidable damage.
A well-executed checklist ensures that every system is protected and, above all, that every protection will be removed in time. In an industry where margins of error are minimal, this discipline is what allows aircraft to return to the air safely.