Air New Zealand to 3D Print Aircraft Interior Parts

Air New Zealand is embracing the future of aircraft interiors by producing 3D printed components for its Business Premier cabins.

The airline has been working with Auckland University of Technology to manufacture the fold down cocktail trays that form part of its Business Premier seat using innovative 3D printing - also known as additive layer manufacturing technology.

"Aircraft interiors are made up of tens of thousands of parts. Not only can't we hold stock of every replacement part we might need, we often only require a small number of units which can be really expensive to produce using traditional manufacturing methods and can involve frustrating delays while a replacement part is delivered," said Air New Zealand Chief Operations Officer, Bruce Parton. "A big advantage of 3D printing is that it allows us to make cost-effective lightweight parts ourselves, and to do so quickly without compromising on safety, strength or durability."

Air New Zealand is hoping to install the 3D printed cocktail trays on aircraft in the coming weeks, pending final regulatory approval. 

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