I do a lot of aviation interiors. About 80% vs auto. What specifically did you want to know? Or did you just want to start on aviation. and need the basics? I don't do training as such but can offer some limited advice. www.recovery-shop.com
for some pictures and such.
Hi Jack; thanks for reply, Yes I would some training but since you dont do that I would still appreciate whatever help you can offer. I do mostly autos and boats at the moment but would like to add avation to my services; since am the only shop that would provide these services professionally in my country.
I just noticed that you live in Belize. In the USA we have the FAA to deal with as far as regulations. You would have to contact your government agency in charge of your federal flight rules and ask them to send you a copy of rules and regulations concerning upholstery for aircraft. It may be different than here in the states. We here must use and provide certification for all materials used in aircraft. It must pass FAA burn specifications. Also, you half to get familiar with how aircraft interiors are put together. DON'T vary from it. It can get you into a lot of trouble. Be aware that if the screw you install through the panel hits a fuel line or even a hidden electrical wire, very bad things can happen. And it's not a case of just pulling over and getting out when or if a fire occurs. The process of doing the re-upholstery is basically the same as autos. I would got to your local airport and start a friendly relationship with the mechanic there that works on planes. ask him for help in your removal and installation for the first few planes. That should get you started. Good luck and enjoy. It can be very rewarding.
Thanks Jack; yes in Belize and am the only upholster shop here that would offer this service since I may be the only upholster here with formal training in Auto upholstery work. I am aware of some of the FAA regulations and that is why I am reaching out to the experts like your self and others. I had request for this services by small air craft operators but have not committed to take any of the jobs for the same reason I need to ensure am on my Ps and Qs and fully up to par to ensure the service are done right.
I appreciateand welcome your advices and will ensure I have full knowledge of these regulations. I try visiting your website but some reason I am not able to access it. Like to see more of your expert work.
Even if aircraft stays in another country, if it retains its "N" registration is is still registered in the USA and FAA rules apply. I have several customers with which this is the case.
Here is a question. If you are recovering aircraft seats in vinyl, what is the best way to source your material? Purchase auto/marine material and have it burn tested or buy from an aviation supplier already tested. What is the best/proper way. Btw, I am primarily looking at part 91, private aircraft.
Standard auto/marine vinyl would not pass burn tests. It would have to be sent off to some place like Skandia or Texas Flameproofing to be treated. That's why I buy from aviation supplier. You get the burn certificates with the vinyl. P.S. I never use straight vinyl on airplane seats. It gets way to hot to be comfortable. I use a combination of cloth inserts with vinyl on bolsters and sides or leather.
Either G.Baker Steeves in CO (303) 853-9577 or sometimes Aviation Interior Products in KS (316) 262-3496. Carpeting, I get from Douglass Interiors (800) 722-7272 in WA