# NFT-Based Framework for Digital Twin Management in Aviation Component Lifecycle Tracking
## 1 Introduction
### Related Work
It addresses the challenges of accurately creating digital twins during aircraft operations and maintenance, proposing solutions through emerging technologies. Blockchain technology has emerged as a promising solution to tackle several challenges in the aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) industry. The MRO sector is characterized by its high complexity, involvement of multiple intermediaries, the need for data sharing among various stakeholders, and stringent security and regulatory requirements [40]. The paper [41] discusses the enhancement of traditional aircraft health monitoring systems by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies to address the complexity of modern aircraft systems and improve operational safety and efficiency. In the MRO context, blockchain can be utilized to store and manage maintenance records, creating a tamper-proof and easily accessible history of aircraft and component maintenance [42]. This would help address critical issues such as counterfeit parts, which pose significant safety risks [43]. By ensuring the authenticity of components and creating a transparent and immutable ledger of maintenance activities, blockchain enhances safety and regulatory compliance within the aviation industry. Furthermore, blockchain has the potential to streamline record-keeping processes, reducing paperwork, and improving the efficiency of data retrieval and sharing among stakeholders across the aviation ecosystem [44]. This technology could greatly enhance collaboration and trust between airlines, manufacturers, suppliers, and maintenance organizations, allowing for the more efficient management of records and improved traceability of parts and components. Organizational readiness for blockchain adoption in MRO is a critical consideration [45]. The aviation industry is known for its cautious approach to adopting new technologies, given its stringent safety and regulatory requirements [46]. Blockchain implementation requires careful planning, industry collaboration, and regulatory support to ensure that it meets the aviation sector's rigorous standards for safety and reliability. Digital twin technology and NFTs have gained attention across numerous industries for their ability to enhance asset management, data integrity, and operational efficiency [47]. NFTs, initially popularized in the digital art and collectibles space, are increasingly being explored as solutions for asset verification and data authenticity across various domains [48]. In supply chain management, for instance, NFTs serve as digital certificates of authenticity for tracking the provenance of high-value goods, such as luxury items and pharmaceuticals, ensuring traceability and mitigating the risk of counterfeiting [49]. In the automotive industry, NFTs are being investigated for vehicle lifecycle management [50], where they could help track the history of individual components or vehicles, enhancing resale value and promoting transparency. These general applications highlight the versatility and benefits of digital twins and NFTs across diverse industries, but the aviation sector presents unique challenges and constraints that amplify their value [51]. Aviation is characterized by low production volumes, highly regulated standards, and long lifecycle management requirements [52]. Aircraft components undergo stringent quality control and regulatory oversight, and each part must maintain a verifiable record of its history to ensure safety and compliance throughout its operational life [53]. Unlike other domains with high turnover or short asset lifespans, aviation components often remain in use for decades and are subject to numerous repairs, inspections, and replacements over time [54]. Given these characteristics, digital twins and NFTs offer a particularly promising solution for aviation.