Highlands Aviation

Highlands Aviation, Inc.

Aircraft Painting Specifications

Highlands Aviation has developed the following specifications to insure the finest in quality aircraft refinishing. Occasionally a manufacturer will have a different specification or sequence; in those cases our specifications are amended to comply with those of the manufacturer.

Input Inspection

An inspection is conducted with the customer's representative to note the general condition of the aircraft and determine the exact scope of work to be performed.

Stripping

All flight controls, removable fairings, landing gear doors, flaps, windshield wipers, etc. are removed from the aircraft in accordance with the aircraft service manual. All windows and other non-metal parts are masked. The aircraft is then chemically stripped.

Airframe Cleaning

After the aircraft is stripped, it is high pressure washed. All inspection covers are removed and the aircraft is inspected for corrosion and hidden damage. The aircraft is hand cleaned using Methyl Ethyl Kytone to remove any contaminates.

Non-Metallic Parts

All composite parts are prepared for repainting in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation.

Acid Etch and Alodyne

All glass windows, engine inlets and exhausts, bright work, and pitot static openings are masked with protective coverings. Mil. Spec Acid etch is applied by hand and the aircraft surface is scrubbed. After rinsing, Mil. Spec. 1201 Alodyne is applied; the aircraft is again rinsed and air dried

Paint Preparation

Once the aircraft is completely dry, all windows, vents, etc. are masked and sealed. Aerodynamic seam sealant is applied where necessary. The aircraft is wiped with MEK and tacked prior to the application of the primer.

Color Application

The primed aircraft is lightly sanded and wiped with MEK and tack rags before the base coat is applied. The base coat consists of 3 full coats of polyurethane paint. After the base coat is dry, the stripes and registration number are laid out; these areas are sanded and trim colors applied.

Landing Gear

Hydraulic lines and non-painted parts are masked to prevent overspray. Landing gear is prepared by sanding prior to painting.

Bright Work

All bright work is polished. The edge of the paint, where it meets the polished areas, is sealed with PRC to retard erosion.

Flight Controls

All flight controls are stripped, processed and painted separately from the body of the aircraft. The controls are balanced in accordance with the aircraft maintenance manual. Upon completion, the controls are reinstalled, lubricated and functionally checked.

Final Inspection

An airworthiness inspection and a work evaluation are conducted. The aircraft log books are signed and the aircraft is returned to service.

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