# NFT-Based Framework for Digital Twin Management in Aviation Component Lifecycle Tracking
## 2 NTF-Based Digital Twin Ecosystem in Aviation Industry
### Structure of NTF-Based Digital Twin Ecosystem  
The aviation digital twin ecosystem (DTE) based on NFTs creates a comprehensive digital representation of physical aviation assets, enabling levels of tracking, analysis, and management throughout the entire lifecycle of aircraft and their components (Figure 1). It covers the granular component-level tokenization, the integration at the aircraft level, real-time updates, blockchain-based verification, smart contract integration, supply chain integration, data analytics and predictive maintenance capabilities, regulatory compliance aspects, end-of-life management, and the importance of interoperability and standards. Figure 1 illustrates a multi-layered framework for managing aviation component lifecycles through distinct functional levels. The physical layer (Level 1) represents the actual physical assets, including the aircraft and its components. These are connected to the digital representation layer (Level 2), where each physical component and the aircraft are mirrored by digital models--specifically, digital twins for real-time monitoring and NFTs for immutable, blockchain-based identity and tracking. Moving up to the operational layer (Level 3), the digital representations facilitate various operational functions, such as maintenance management, supply chain integration, performance monitoring, and data analytics, enabling proactive decision-making and streamlined operations. The topmost layer, the management and compliance layer (Level 4), encompasses overarching regulatory compliance, data management, and security protocols that ensure the integrity and safety of the entire system. This layered structure integrates physical assets with digital technologies, operational processes, and compliance frameworks to create a cohesive, traceable, and secure lifecycle management system. At the heart of this ecosystem lies the concept of digital twins--virtual representations of physical assets. In this context, each aircraft is assigned a unique NFT that serves as its digital counterpart. This aircraft-level NFT is not a static entity but a dynamic, evolving digital asset that continuously updates to reflect the current state, configuration, and history of the physical aircraft it represents. The aircraft NFT is composed of multiple component NFTs, each representing a critical part of the plane, such as engines, avionics systems, or structural elements. These component NFTs contain detailed information,including manufacturer details, production date, technical specifications, and ongoing operational data. The creation of these digital twins begins at the manufacturing stage. As each component is produced, the manufacturer generates a corresponding NFT, embedding it with initial data, such as production specifications, compliance certifications, and unique identifiers. As these components move through the supply chain, their NFTs are updated by suppliers and distributors, creating an unbroken chain of custody and provenance. When components are integrated into an aircraft, their individual NFTs become part of the larger aircraft NFT, forming a comprehensive digital representation of the entire vessel. Once an aircraft enters service, its digital twin comes alive with real-time data. Every flight, maintenance action, and performance metric are recorded and linked to the relevant NFTs. This constant stream of information creates a living, breathing digital entity that accurately reflects the current state and history of the physical aircraft. Airlines and operators interact with these NFTs, updating them with operational data, while maintenance providers record their actions, ensuring a complete and accurate maintenance history. The backbone of this ecosystem is blockchain technology. All updates and transactions involving the NFTs are recorded on a distributed ledger, ensuring the immutability and traceability of all data. This blockchain-based approach prevents fraudulent activities, data manipulation, and provides a single source of truth for all stakeholders.