Innovative Aircraft Cabin Composites & Lightweight Materials

As the global trends toward CO2 reduction and resource efficiency increase, so too does the importance of lightweight materials in aviation. Rising fuel costs per seat represent the greatest driver in searching for innovative lightweight structures: despite significant improvements in airframes, engines and lighter-weight interior components, fuel costs, as a percentage of overall fleet operating costs, continue to rise. Rising fuel prices have become the dominant cost factor for airline operations, accounting for one-third or more of operating costs. By 2022, fuel could make up 50% or more of fleet operating costs. As we enter a new age of aviation, it is clear that the industry is focused on finding new and exciting ways of using lightweight materials. However, the use of lightweight structures must also be feasible and purchasing, implementation, operational, and after-usage aspects must also be considered. In times of increasingly longer flight distances and the struggle to achieve differentiation between airplanes, comfort cannot be sacrificed.

Additionally, the development of stricter environmental regulations and customers' environmental concerns highlight the importance of strategies for disposal and re-cycling of used lightweight materials.  Learn about new materials and technologies designed to reduce component weight and save costs.  Hear about new processes and processing technologies, including the move to higher volumes.   Consider how passenger comfort can be both impacted and even improved through composite integration.   Understand the certification processes, including international safety regulations and certification barriers.  Address environmental concerns regarding the repair, re-use and recycling of composite materials.