Aircraft Maintenance FAQ
General Aircraft Maintenance
Q: What types of aircraft do you service?
A: We service most general aviation fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, including Robinson R22, R44, and R66 models, Enstrom helicopters, and common GA airframes. Our technicians have experience across a wide range of manufacturers and model years.
Q: How do I track the status of my aircraft repair?
A: We use Quantum MX software with a customer portal that lets you log in and follow your aircraft's work progress in real time. You will see exactly where things stand without having to call the shop.
Q: Do you offer financing for aircraft repairs?
A: Yes. We offer aircraft financing solutions for major repairs, overhauls, and upgrades. Our team can walk you through loan options during the estimate process.
Mobile Aircraft Repair
Q: How does your mobile aircraft repair service work?
A: We send technicians to your location — your hangar, ramp, or remote airport. They bring tools and diagnostic equipment to handle engine repairs, avionics, electrical issues, landing gear fixes, and flight control adjustments on site.
Q: What areas do you cover for mobile aircraft repair?
A: We serve Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Palestine, Athens, and surrounding East Texas airports. If you are within our service radius, we come to you. Call us with your location for confirmation.
Q: Can you do emergency aircraft repairs on site?
A: Yes. We provide emergency mobile repairs for unexpected issues that ground your aircraft. Our goal is to get you back in the air as quickly as possible with safe, reliable work done at your location.
Q: Is mobile repair more expensive than bringing my aircraft to your shop?
A: A travel fee applies based on distance, but many owners find mobile repair saves them money overall — no ferry flights, no downtime transporting the aircraft, and no hangar logistics to sort out.
Annual Inspections
Q: What does your annual inspection include?
A: Our annual inspection covers the airframe, engine compression and borescope, propeller, avionics, landing gear and brakes, flight control systems, fuel system, interior safety equipment, and a full AD compliance research check against all applicable airworthiness directives.
Q: How long does an annual inspection take?
A: Turnaround depends on the aircraft type, condition, and any discrepancies we find. Most annuals complete within a few days to a week. We communicate timeline expectations upfront and keep you updated through our Quantum MX customer portal.
Q: Do you handle FAA compliance during annual inspections?
A: Yes. Every annual inspection includes a complete AD compliance review. We research all applicable airworthiness directives, verify compliance with both one-time and recurring requirements, and ensure your aircraft meets FAA regulations.
Q: How much does an annual inspection cost?
A: Cost varies by aircraft make, model, and condition. Contact us for an estimate tailored to your aircraft. We provide transparent pricing and will walk you through every line item before work begins.
Q: What happens if you find something wrong during the inspection?
A: We document every discrepancy with photos and clear explanations, then review them with you before any additional work is authorized. Nothing gets done without your approval.
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Q: What is included in your pre-purchase aircraft inspection?
A: We inspect the airframe, engine, propeller, avionics and electrical systems, flight controls, landing gear, interior and safety equipment, and logbooks. We check for corrosion, damage, and wear, and verify that maintenance records are complete and accurate.
Q: Can you do a pre-purchase inspection on a helicopter?
A: Yes. We perform pre-purchase inspections on Robinson R22, R44, and R66 helicopters as well as Enstrom models. We evaluate the engine, gearbox, rotor system, avionics, airframe, and maintenance records so you know exactly what you are buying.
Q: What is the difference between an in-house and mobile pre-purchase inspection?
A: An in-house inspection happens at our fully equipped facility. A mobile inspection means we travel to the aircraft wherever it is — a remote airport, private hangar, or seller's location. Both are equally thorough. You choose based on convenience.
Q: Why should I get a pre-purchase inspection instead of just an annual?
A: A pre-purchase inspection goes deeper than an annual. We look specifically for hidden damage, deferred maintenance, corrosion, and logbook gaps that affect the aircraft's true value. It is cheap insurance against buying someone else's problem.
Engine Repairs and Performance Upgrades
Q: What engine repair services do you offer?
A: We handle engine repairs, top overhauls, tuning, dynamic balancing, and full engine removal and replacement. Our technicians diagnose issues from rough running to low compression and get your engine performing right.
Q: Can you upgrade my aircraft engine for more horsepower?
A: Yes. We install STC-approved engine upgrades that increase horsepower and performance while staying fully FAA compliant. Contact us with your aircraft details for available options.
Q: Can you install STOL kits on my aircraft?
A: Yes. We install Sportsman's STOL kits that improve short takeoff and landing performance. Our team handles the full installation and ensures proper rigging and compliance.
Q: What does a vortex generator do for my aircraft?
A: Vortex generators improve low-speed handling, reduce stall speed, and add a safety margin during slow flight. We install them on general aviation aircraft to enhance controllability and performance.
Q: Do you install backcountry aircraft modifications?
A: Yes. We install Airglas STC conversions with big tires for off-airport and backcountry operations, STOL kits, and vortex generators — all STC-approved and FAA compliant.
Propeller and Rotor Balancing
Q: Why should I get my propeller dynamically balanced?
A: Dynamic propeller balancing reduces vibration, which extends engine and airframe component life, decreases pilot fatigue, and makes the cabin noticeably smoother. It is one of the most cost-effective maintenance actions you can take.
Q: Do you balance helicopter rotors?
A: Yes. We perform main rotor and tail rotor dynamic balancing for Robinson and Enstrom helicopters. Proper rotor balance reduces vibration, improves component longevity, and makes the aircraft fly smoother and safer.
Q: How often should propeller balancing be done?
A: After any propeller removal, engine work, or if you notice new vibration. Many owners include it as part of their annual inspection for peace of mind.
Robinson Helicopter Service
Q: Are you authorized to service Robinson helicopters?
A: Yes. East Texas Flying Service is a factory-authorized Robinson Helicopter service center. We handle R22, R44, and R66 models and use genuine Robinson parts for all maintenance, repairs, and overhauls.
Q: What Robinson helicopter models do you work on?
A: We service the Robinson R22, R44, and R66. Our factory-trained technicians handle everything from routine factory-scheduled maintenance to full 2,200-hour overhauls and component replacements.
Q: Do you do Robinson 2,200-hour overhauls?
A: Yes. We offer comprehensive overhaul packages for R22, R44, and R66 helicopters. Every overhaul uses genuine Robinson parts and follows factory specifications for safety and reliability.
Q: Do you service Enstrom helicopters too?
A: Yes. We provide full maintenance and repair for Enstrom piston and turbine models alongside our Robinson service line.
Avionics, Interiors, and Painting
Q: What avionics upgrades can you install?
A: We install GPS systems, glass cockpit displays, autopilots, and ADS-B compliance equipment. Our technicians handle full panel modernizations with certified avionics from manufacturers including Dynon and Avidyne.
Q: Do you repair aircraft upholstery?
A: Yes. We handle upholstery repairs including seats, carpets, side panels, and headliners. We also offer full custom interior replacement tailored to your aircraft and preferences.
Q: Can you paint my entire aircraft?
A: Yes. We offer complete exterior aircraft painting with custom schemes available. Our paint shop handles everything from single-color resprays to full custom designs.
Q: Do you do sheetmetal repairs?
A: Yes. We repair and fabricate fuselage skins, wing skins, and flight control surfaces. Our sheetmetal work meets FAA structural repair standards.
Flight Training
Q: What flight training programs do you offer?
A: We offer Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot License, Certified Flight Instructor, and Discovery Flights. Training is customized to your goals with flexible scheduling — mornings, afternoons, or weekends.
Q: How much does a discovery flight cost?
A: Pricing varies by aircraft type and flight duration. Contact us directly for current discovery flight rates. It is a low-cost, no-pressure way to experience flying with a certified instructor before committing to a full program.
Q: What aircraft do you use for flight training?
A: We train in a modern, well-maintained fleet of technologically advanced aircraft. Our planes are kept in top condition by the same maintenance team that services our customers' aircraft.
Q: How long does it take to get a Private Pilot License?
A: The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours, but most students complete their PPL in 50 to 70 hours. Your timeline depends on how often you fly and weather conditions. We build a schedule that fits your life.
Service Area and Logistics
Q: What areas of East Texas do you serve?
A: We serve Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Palestine, Athens, and the surrounding region. Our mobile repair team travels to your airport, hangar, or private strip throughout East Texas.
Q: Do you work on aircraft at regional airports or only private strips?
A: Both. We work at regional airports, private grass strips, corporate hangars, and remote locations. If your aircraft is in East Texas, we can likely reach it.
Q: How do I schedule service?
A: Call us directly or use the contact form on our website. For existing customers, you can also reach us through the Quantum MX customer portal.