Who is responsible for deciding when an aircraft will be placed in preservation?

The Maintenance Officer plays a critical role in the upkeep and operational readiness of aircraft, which encompasses deciding when an aircraft should be placed in preservation. This decision hinges on various factors, including the aircraft's operational status, maintenance requirements, and anticipated future usage.

The Maintenance Officer assesses the condition of the aircraft and determines the timing for preservation to prevent deterioration during periods of inactivity. Proper preservation ensures that the aircraft remains in a state that can be readily restored to operational status when required, minimizing the risk of damage or excessive maintenance costs down the line.

While other roles, such as the Flight Commander, Operations Manager, and Logistics Coordinator, are essential in their respective capacities, they do not typically have the specialized responsibility or authority for preservation decisions, which are primarily grounded in maintenance strategy and technical knowledge. This specialized expertise underlines why the Maintenance Officer is the appropriate authority in this context.