Structures Technology of Modern General Aviation Aircraft

The application of advanced composites and of modern metal processing methods is discussed from the point of view of a European manufacturer, mainly focussed on utility and commuter aircraft in the 15 to 30 Pax category.

Examples are the Dornier 228 commuter aircraft and two programs for fuselage and laminar wing technology development. A tooling and production concept for the manufacturing of integrally stiffened CFRP shells is presented.

Special attention is to be given to the interiors. Early coordination between airframe and systems designers can lead to considerable cost savings.