Prototype for a permissioned blockchain in aircraft MRO

Purpose: The paper aims to show strengths, weaknesses and challenges in the application of Blockchain technology for aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). The analysis is based on a prototype of a permissioned Blockchain for the maintenance documentation of aircraft and their components. Methodology: A prototyping approach is used to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying problems and proposed solutions of applying Blockchain technology to aircraft MRO. The open source platform ‘Hyperledger Fabric‘ and the toolset ‘Hyperledger Composer‘ are used to develop the permissioned Blockchain application. Based on devised use cases the prototype is validated and evaluated. Findings: Examining the prototype presents opportunities to increase data credibility and efficiency within a decentralized business network through increased transparency, traceability and the use of Smart Contracts. The Blockchain technology could help address challenges in the aircraft MRO industry such as the use of counterfeit spare parts or costly documentation verifications. Originality: In-depth descriptions of Blockchain use-cases can rarely be found. These are necessary in order to understand the requirements, strengths and weaknesses of using Blockchain in certain business contexts. The development of a prototype furthermore shows a deep insight in the conceptual design, development and usage of Blockchain applications.