The Significance of Aircraft Upholstery

The Significance of Aircraft Upholstery

By Kustom Stitch in Knoxville, TN.

Aircraft upholstery encompasses far more than just the covering of seats on an aircraft. Aircraft upholstery is found in the carpeting, wall fabric, and bulkheads of an airplane. Depending on whether or not the aircraft is for commercial traveling, economy class or an extravagant private jet, the upholstery can vary substantially in quality and design. However, all aircraft upholstery must be lightweight and durable while also meeting stringent standards of safety.

The single most important item in aircraft upholstery is undoubtedly the seat. To cushion passengers comfortably during take-off and landing, the standard seat of an aircraft must consist of multi-density foam, or more specifically, a rigid inner layer of foam bonded to a softer outer layer supporting the body. The seat is then covered in various styles of nylon, vinyl, leatherette or real leather.

The aircraft’s walls and bulkheads are also important when it comes to the comfort of its passengers. The upholstery of these parts of the plane contributes to the noise control of modern travel. After receiving a coating of flame-retardant foam, walls and bulkheads can then be given a variety of different coverings. For example, aircraft upholstery on a private jet might include upholstery of high-quality buttoned leather. Commercial aircraft use specially formulated fabrics that offer low smoke toxicity and high durability measured in the tens of thousands of rubs. Other factors taken into consideration regarding the upholstery of all aircraft are flame resistance and comfort, in addition to making sure the fabrics meet recognized burn-test, heat-release, and smoke-toxicity standards.

There is still room for creativity in the world of aircraft upholstery, despite all these technical considerations. There are numerous colors, patterns, and comfort levels to choose from. One can even order recliners made of fine-grain leather with hidden spring-released, walnut-veneered drinks compartments built into the sides if they wish!

For more information about aircraft upholstery, or to speak with someone about getting airplane upholstery installed, contact Kustom Stitch at (865) 679-6591 or find them online at www.stitchestintandtunes.com