KLM Engineering & Maintenance develops Environmentally Friendly Painting System

KLM Engineering & Maintenance, working together with German paint supplier Mankiewicz, has developed a new aircraft painting system. The application of thinner paint layers reduces the weight of the paint by a full 15%. As a result, the aircraft consumes less fuel and produces fewer CO2 emissions. This is contributed to by the fact that the thinner layer is also smoother.

Not only is the paint chromate-free; the aircraft can be degreased primarily using soap and water, thereby reducing the amount of harmful  solvents. The new system also saves time. The new paint requires less drying time and reduces the number of man-hours. Depending on the aircraft type, time on the ground has been reduced by as much as two days. It also saves money as it uses less paint.

Together with Mankiewicz, KLM E&M performed extensive tests at the German company's laboratory. Following that, KLM staff carried out field trials and underwent practical training. The new system has already been used on a 747 freighter and three 737s. Four more will follow next month.

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