Production Manager

Martha Jercinovich

From classic woodgrain finishes to bold custom designs, hydrographics are transforming aircraft interiors. This versatile, durable, and cost-effective process lets operators and owners create cabins with executive sophistication or a truly personal touch.
<h2>What Exactly Is Hydrographics?</h2>
Hydrographics, is a water-transfer process that applies a printed film onto solid materials, such as aircraft cabinetry. Think of it as wrapping cabinetry in a lightweight, durable, and highly customizable design layer.
<h3>How the Process Works:</h3>
1. Aircraft components are removed, stripped, cleaned, and primed.
2. A hydrographic film is floated on water, then activated to dissolve into a liquid pattern.
3. The prepared items are dipped, rinsed, and the pattern bonds seamlessly to the surface.4. A protective clear coat is applied, and the items are reassembled and reinstalled in the aircraft.
The result? A seamless finish that mimics wood, stone, carbon fiber, or something completely custom.
<h2>Where Can Hydrographics Be Applied?</h2>
If it’s part of your aircraft’s cabinetry, chances are it can be hydro-dipped. Popular applications include:
• Bulkheads &amp; doors
• Cabinets &amp; tables
• Seat trays &amp; accent pieces
• Drink rails &amp; countertops
• Lavatory sinks &amp; sidewalls
(Note: sidewalls may need touch-ups sooner since they see more wear from contact.)

<h2>Design Options: Classic or Creative</h2>
Hydrographics open the door to nearly any look you can imagine:
• Traditional: Polished woodgrain, marble, stone
• Modern: Carbon fiber, metallics, textured patterns
• Bold: Flames, skulls, flags, floral prints
• Custom: Your brand logo or a one-of-a-kind designFor operators managing multiple aircraft, custom films can even unify a fleet with consistent branding.
<h2>Cost, Durability, and Downtime</h2>
• Cost: Typically 10–20% less than new veneer installations.
• Durability: Just as strong as veneers, with a protective clear coat to guard against wear,fading, or cracking.
• Lifespan: With occasional refinishing of the clear coat (a quick “scuff-and-buff”),hydrographics can last for years.
• Downtime: Generally 6–8 weeks, faster than the 8–12 weeks required for new veneers.

<h2>What to Look for in a Shop?</h2>
Not all hydro-dipped finishes are created equal. A quality shop should:
• Be certified by a hydrographic film provider
• Provide consistent patterns across all cabinetry components
• Show no bubbles, cracks, or distortions

<h2>Hydrographics vs. Veneer: The bottom line</h2>
Hydrographics offer aircraft owners and operators:
• More design flexibility
• Lower cost and shorter downtime
• Easier future repairs (film patterns can be replicated, unlike veneers). Whether you’re refreshing a single jet or refurbishing&nbsp;

In short: Hydrographics make it possible to have a cabin that looks as stunning and unique as the journey it takes you on.
<a href="https://cla.aero/aircraft-interior-hydrographics/">Aircraft Interior Hydrographics - C&amp;L Aero</a>

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