Digital Aviation Record System (DARS)
Helping the aviation sector undergo digital transformation away from paper-based and disconnected systems.
Project Overview
The Problem
The global aviation industry is struggling as a result of the longstanding COVID-19 pandemic. More than ever, the sector needs to accelerate digital transformation to reduce costs and operate more efficiently. A recent industry survey revealed that digital transformation is the number one priority for Canadian airlines. Moreover, PWC estimated digital tools and processes could improve aircraft maintenance efficiencies by $3.5 billion annually.
Systems used today to manage and record aircraft maintenance are either paper-based or operated using software systems that are disconnected with inconsistent data standardization and quality. Consequently, many processes are time consuming, requiring high amounts of manual data entry and manual data transfer between systems. It’s estimated that better systems and digital processes could improve airline maintenance productivity by up to 25 percent.
How We Are Solving It
Led by TrustFlight, in collaboration with the University of British Columbia, Boeing, and RaceRocks, the Digital Aircraft Record System (DARS) consortium aims to streamline processes and increase productivity with a digital platform that leverages blockchain technology.
The objective is for DARS to be the world’s first industry-wide, web-based maintenance record platform – replacing paper records for an aircraft with a digital alternative that offers greater insight and reduces manual work. A core part of the project involves the creation of digital workflow applications to provide efficiency improvements and a digital data platform for storing maintenance records throughout the lifecycle of an aircraft.
The project also intends to create about 40 highly skilled software and aviation data jobs in the first year and hundreds of other new related positions over two to four years.
Digital aerospace is an opportunity for Canada to take the lead, transforming the aviation industry nationally and then globally. In addition to creating a competitive advantage for existing airlines, DARS has the potential to spawn a diverse ecosystem of startups – leveraging the data and infrastructure created with its digital solution.
Project Lead
Project Partners
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“Replacing manual, paper-based procedures with accurate digital records will help accelerate this transformation in aviation. As we continue to pursue digital-first solutions across Boeing, innovations like DARS help airlines and operators reduce costs and operate more efficiently.”
President, Boeing Canada Operations Ltd Read the Boeing Blog on Unlocking Blockchain for Aerospace