The Naval Air Systems Command launched a new Web site July 2 as the official tool for the fleet to submit an engineering investigation (EI) or a hazardous material report (HMR).

Members of the fleet can now electronically submit an EI or HMR online at https://ei.navair.navy.mil instead of manually submitting paperwork. EI/HMRs are naval aviation discrepancy reports that provide leading indicators of the safety, reliability and maintainability of the Navy’s aircraft, systems and weapons.

“The EI/HMR process was reengineered to better serve the fleet,” said Lt. Cmdr. Mike Berens, deputy project manager for the EI Business Process Reengineering team. “The new process incorporates ‘best business practices’ and state-of-the-art information technology to speed up the EI process, save money and reduce squadron workload.”

The Web site integrates an EI/HMR tracking and reporting system with workflow technology to perform tasks, cue action and measure task duration. The Web site is also linked with the Defense Message System to ensure fleet units without Internet access can obtain critical EI information via message traffic.

Since May 22, fleet aviation squadrons with supporting aircraft intermediate maintenance departments and supply activities submitted more than 1,659 EI requests with 473 requests accepted, tracked and processed by the associated NAVAIR fleet support teams.

“This intense testing period provided performance assurance in meeting NAVAIR objectives,” Berens said.

The objectives are:
· To meet the Navy’s guideline of 30 days for an engineering investigation,
· To achieve a zero loss rate with full disposition of EI exhibits through positive material management,
· To implement an exhibit transportation process to achieve a shipping average to three days within the continental United States and seven days outside the continental United States standard.

“We used to average about 240 days to complete an EI,” Berens said. “This Web site will significantly reduce the processing time for our fleet customers.”

The Web site accommodates all naval aviation, support equipment, and aircraft launch and recovery equipment communities. Beta testing of several aviation weapons communities is currently in process and should complete performance assurance this fall.

Fleet aviation Sailors and Marines can register at the https://ei.navair.navy.mil Web site. Feedback is encouraged and can be submitted online at the Web site.