Why are we making this and who is it for?
Hey everyone! Today, we’re talking about whether it’s better to use vinyl or paint on aircraft. This video is for people who take care of aircraft, like engineers and commercial teams. We want to help them decide the best way to make aircraft look awesome.
What’s the difference between vinyl and paint for aircraft?
Every aircraft needs a base layer of paint. But after that, we can use vinyl to add designs. Vinyl is super flexible and quick to apply. It’s also cheaper than paint. But there are some areas on the plane where vinyl isn’t the best choice, like where it gets really windy or near the radar.
How much does it cost?
Using vinyl costs less than using paint. Vinyl also has a lower impact on the environment because we don’t have to fly the plane to a special place to apply it. Our team can go to the plane and put the vinyl on right there.
What about maintenance?
Vinyl doesn’t need much maintenance. We offer a two-year warranty, and if it gets damaged, it’s easy to fix. Paint, on the other hand, is more complicated and expensive to repair.
How long does it last?
Vinyl can last several years, depending on the plane’s condition. Paint usually needs to be redone every 7–8 years. When the paint is refreshed, the plane is stripped down to bare metal and repainted.
How do you apply them, and how long does it take?
Applying paint is a long and complicated process. It requires a special facility and takes a lot of time because of all the layers and drying times. Vinyl is much faster and can be done in any hangar. It’s also more eco-friendly since there’s less waste.
What about logistics?
Painting a plane needs a special, controlled environment to avoid dust and dirt. Vinyl can be applied almost anywhere, even outside if the weather is good.
Which is easier to maintain and repair?
Vinyl is easier and quicker to repair. If it gets damaged, we just peel off the bad part and stick on a new piece. Paint repairs take longer and need several layers.
Design options and flexibility?
Vinyl offers lots of design options and customization. The only thing it doesn’t do well is metallic effects, which paint handles better. But for most designs, vinyl works great and can mimic almost any look.
Does it affect the plane’s performance?
Nope! Both vinyl and paint have similar weights and don’t impact how the plane flies. We do have a special vinyl called AeroSHARK that actually helps reduce drag and save fuel, but that’s a special case.
What are the trends in the market?
Right now, there’s a high demand for paint shops, but not enough slots available. Some paint colours are hard to get because the ingredients are rare. So, more people are choosing vinyl because it’s faster and easier to get done.
Advice on choosing between vinyl and paint
When deciding between vinyl and paint, think about the area you want to brand, how long you need it to last, your budget, and how quickly you need it done. Vinyl is great for short-term and budget-friendly projects. Paint is better for long-term and durable designs.