Quantifying the Impact of Aircraft Cannibalization

Abstract : The primary objective of this project was to develop a mathematical modeling methodology for assessing the impact of cannibalization on fleet performance in order to identify policies for making effective cannibalization decisions and to study the impact of these policies on management of the spare parts supply chain. To achieve this objective, we pursued two research avenues in parallel. First, we developed and analyzed a "generic" cannibalization model. This discrete-event simulation model was used to investigate two key issues related to aircraft readiness: cannibalization and spare parts inventory levels. Second, we developed and analyzed two discrete-event simulation models based on the cannibalization practices that take place at Hill AFB. These models were used to investigate several key issues raised by USAF officers experienced with conditions similar to those existing at Hill AFB.