Learning from past experience plays an important role in the ongoing corrosion-prevention efforts at this Savannah-based business-jet manufacturer. Thanks to its 50-year business-aviation history, the company draws on past experiences to influence future efforts.

Over the last five decades, this OEM has found that the best way to keep corrosion at bay and ensure an aircraft’s continued airworthiness is to be proactive from the beginning. The company focuses on a multi-layered corrosion-control program: Start with the right kind of material. Bring in the right plating, primer, and paint. Add some corrosion-inhibiting compounds and corrosion shouldn’t come calling.

But that isn’t all this company does. When it comes to corrosion, the design of an aircraft is just as important as the materials used to build it. The fewer pockets where moisture, acids, and salt can accumulate, the better. Since it is nearly impossible to prevent all water accumulation, especially in the lower part of the aircraft where water tends to pool, Gulfstream incorporates drainage into the aircraft’s design.

That, combined with a decent dose of vigilance, helps keep corrosion away. Toward that end, Gulfstream continuously monitors its fleet to ensure that it remains corrosion-free. Like a cancer, if corrosion is caught early, it can be treated and repaired.

Preventive maintenance is also a Gulfstream mantra. The company integrates corrosion topics — how to prevent, detect, and repair it — into its overall training and maintenance program. Additionally, Gulfstream requires operators to adhere to the inspection schedule and maintenance practices outlined in Chapter 5 of the Aircraft Maintenance Manual.

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