20th MXG improves ORI flightline ops Published June 10, 2009 By Senior Airman Matt Davis 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Members of the 20th Maintenance Group had a problem that needed fixing. The equipment on the line had no designated parking locations. In an effort to get jets off the ground faster, flightline workers needed a standard for aircraft-support equipment stored on the parking ramp. According to maintainers, equipment was not readily available to flightline personnel, and critical time was wasted on equipment delivery. Maintainers were also concerned about driver availability for transporting aerospace ground equipment, and having to compete for resources. Through an Air Force Smart Operations of the 21st Century Rapid Improvement Event a select group of Airmen from the 20th MXG improved flightline operations. The Airmen decided the best way to solve the problem would be to put the equipment where the work is done. Relocating equipment closer to the maintainer will speed up their ability to generate aircraft during the Operational Readiness Inspection. "With the time and energy savings from the RIE, Airmen's focus can be to succeed in other challenges they'll face during the ORI," said 1st Lt. Robert Kraay, 20th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. Equipment location signs, along with parking location visualization cards and painting lines were manufactured to assort equipment for aircraft maintenance units. The maintainers also plan to purchase and install oil cart shelters. This solution will keep the maintainers close to equipment and tools they need to get the aircraft operational. All improvements combined will save an estimated $124,000 in man hours per year. "It makes our job easier and our line looks straight. It also makes it more convenient," said Staff Sgt. Justin Ouellette, 77th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief.