This content is not included in
your SAE MOBILUS subscription, or you are not logged in.
Maintenance and Economic Benefits of Non-Painted Aircraft Operations
Annotation ability available
Sector:
Language:
English
Abstract
Alclad aluminum sheet has been used for decades as the material of choice for aircraft fuselage sheet. Producers have developed and improved aluminum alloys that today allow airline companies to fly polished unpainted aircraft that are attractive, unique and instantly identifiable to the traveling public.
The use of polished fuselages not only provides an attractive exterior but also offers functional benefits. These include fuel savings by flying with less paint, maintenance savings from reduced down time during C and D checks, reduction in hazardous waste disposal, and improved inspection capabilities.
Arguments for both sides of this issue are sound. However the proven advantages of flying non-painted polished aircraft necessitate consideration of the concept of flying non-painted polished fleets for improved economic performance.
Recommended Content
Topic
Citation
Skluzak, D., "Maintenance and Economic Benefits of Non-Painted Aircraft Operations," SAE Technical Paper 892208, 1989, https://doi.org/10.4271/892208.Also In
References
- Cieslak S. J. Tribends J. J. “The Economic Advantages of Operating a Polished Aluminum Aircraft Fleet,” SAE 23rd Annual Aerospace/Airline Plating and Metal Finishing Forum and Exposition Jacksonville, Florida February 16-19 1989
- Aviation Week & Space Technology “Airlines Urged Not to Paint Fuselages As Concerns About Aging Fleet Rise,” February 6 1989 62 64 Aviation Equipment Maintenance, “The Great Paint vs. Polish Debate,” June 1989 42 49
- Cieslak S. J. Tribends J. J. “The Economic Advantages of Operating a Polished Aluminum Aircraft Fleet,” SAE 23rd Annual Aerospace/Airline Plating and Metal Finishing Forum and Exposition Jacksonville, Florida February 16-19 1989
- Aerospace America “Aging Aircraft,” July 1989 42
- Aviation Mechanics Journal “Shining Times,” January 1988 14 17