What is Aircraft Ceramic Coating?

We’ve all seen it. That glass-like shine on an aircraft stands out in a crowd and gives it that new-plane look and feel. But what makes the plane so shiny, and how long does it last?

While wax or polish can give you that shine, you need to reapply every few weeks to maintain that high-gloss finish. We’re big fans of adding a clear, protective ceramic coating over top of your paint to give you that glass-like shine. 

Keep reading to learn more about ceramic coatings for aircraft and what you need to know about maintaining them.

What is Aircraft Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coating is a layer of ceramic pieces and liquid polymer applied to your aircraft after the painting is complete. It forms a hard shell that protects your paint from UV rays and prevents it from fading in the sun. This clear coating also helps prevent corrosion and makes the aircraft easier to clean, as dirt, bugs, and other environmental debris don’t stick to it.

At ArtCraft, we use The Avenger 2-Part Ceramic Coating from John’s 360 Coatings for its durability.

“We recommend ceramic coatings with all paint jobs because of the extra protection the coating provides, meaning your aircraft will maintain that freshly-painted look for years,” Brenda Maldonado, Sales Manager, said. “This ultimately means you will need fewer touch-ups to keep your aircraft in top shape, saving you money in the long run.”

How Does ArtCraft Apply Ceramic Coating to Aircraft?

Ceramic coating is applied to aircraft by hand as a liquid that is worked in with an applicator pad and gets polished by hand with a cloth to ensure smooth and even coverage. Once applied, the coating is cured for up to two days to allow it to harden and create a protective barrier. 

“We use a two-part ceramic coating from John’s 360, which starts with our team mixing the coating and then using a cloth to meticulously apply the coating to your aircraft by hand,” Maldonado said. “We take our time with this process, which can take up to eight hours for a small aircraft, as this is the finishing touch on your aircraft and we want to give you that glass-like shine that lasts for years to come.”

Benefits of Ceramic Coating

Ceramic coatings seal in your paint job and create a protective barrier for your aircraft. Here are some benefits of applying a ceramic coating to your aircraft.

Resists Fading

This protective coating blocks harmful UV rays and other environmental factors, meaning your world-class ArtCraft paint job doesn’t fade, and it maintains that like-new appearance for longer. With the average starting cost of a full exterior paint job coming in at $25,000, you want to protect your investment, and help your paint job last as long as possible.

Long-Lasting Protection

Unlike wax, which needs to be reapplied to achieve a glass-like shine, ceramic coatings on airplanes and helicopters can last up to 10 years. It protects your paint from harmful UV rays, which can cause your paint color to fade over time. In addition, it’s waterproof properties mean chemicals and other environmental elements that could damage your paint (such as bugs or bird droppings) are not absorbed.

Bug and Water-Repellant

When it’s not being protected in a hangar, your aircraft is exposed to the elements, whether in the skies or on the runway. A ceramic coating repels water and bugs, meaning raindrops will slide right off, and bugs can easily be wiped off during your post-flight inspection and cleaning. 

Easy Maintenance

With its hydrophobic properties, ceramic coatings make cleaning and maintaining your aircraft easy. Like wax, ceramic coatings cause the “water beading” effect, so rain and other debris roll right off your aircraft. 

It is important to note that wax can be used in combination with ceramic coating, but polishes should not be used, as they can damage the coating and remove its protective properties. 

Is Ceramic Coating Right for Your Aircraft?

How often you fly your aircraft, where it’s stored, and climate can all impact how well your paint job holds up. Ceramic coating adds an extra layer of protection for aircraft stored outside, in more varied climates, etc. Understanding these aspects can help determine whether it’s the right choice for your plane.

Climate and Operating Environment

Climate is a main factor we consider when recommending ceramic coating. Aircraft exposed to intense sunlight in places like California, Arizona, or Florida benefit from the UV protection ceramic coating provides, which prevents paint oxidation and fading. In coastal or humid environments, where salt air and moisture can accelerate corrosion, a ceramic coating on your aircraft can help prevent corrosion. In colder regions, it helps repel de-icing chemicals and prevents road salt damage during taxiing.

Frequency of Use and Maintenance Routine

How often you use your aircraft can also help you determine if ceramic coating is a good investment for you. High-usage aircraft, such as business jets and charter planes, frequently encounter dirt and weather elements. The hydrophobic properties of ceramic coatings make cleaning easier and help maintain a polished look. For aircraft stored for long periods, ceramic coating provides long-term protection against dust and oxidation, preserving the exterior even when not in use.

Aircraft Storage

Where you store your aircraft when it’s not in use is a key factor to consider when deciding whether or not to add ceramic coating to your plane. Aircraft stored in hangars typically see much less UV and environmental damage, so the main benefit would be the glass-like shine and maintaining your aircraft’s paint job for longer. If your aircraft is stored outside, it’s subject to more paint degradation from the weather, and a ceramic coating is a great option to protect your plane.

Best Types of Aircraft for Ceramic Coating

Certain aircraft benefit more from ceramic coatings than others. Private and business jets rely on a sleek, professional appearance, making ceramic coating an ideal solution. General aviation aircraft, including Mooney, Beechcraft Bonanza, and Cirrus models, gain added paint protection and easier maintenance, plus, that glass-like shine definitely turns heads at air shows and fly-ins. Commercial and charter aircraft, like Cessna Caravans and Pilatus PC-12s, experience reduced upkeep costs. Helicopters and working aircraft used for law enforcement, firefighting, and medical transport also benefit from added protection against dirt, debris, and environmental exposure.

Ceramic coating is a great option to minimize upkeep, improve appearance, protect your aircraft, and reduce overall maintenance costs.

Protect Your Aircraft With a Ceramic Coating Today

Whether you are still eyeing up a new paint job, or you had your plane painted in the last few years, a ceramic coating can help your aircraft keep its like-new look for years to come. 

If you have any questions about having the exterior or interior of your aircraft refurbished and a ceramic coating applied, contact us or request a quote!