Abstract: Automated processing of electronic log book (ELB) pilot reports (PIREPs) are configured to receive ELB PIREPs and prioritize observed faults and potential observed faults included in the ELB PIREPs. In one mode, automated processing involves receiving an observed fault report representing an observed fault. A knowledge base of fault cost data is accessed, facilitating the observed fault being correlated with corresponding fault cost data in the knowledge base of fault cost data. A relative fault cost is determined for the observed fault based on the corresponding fault cost data in the knowledge base. Based on the relative fault cost, a priority is assigned to the observed fault based on the relative fault cost. The priority assigned is communicated to those tasked with remedying observed faults, allowing the highest priority faults to receive the most immediate attention.