Keywords
Citation
(2003), "Aircraft floor covering", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 75 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2003.12775dad.001
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2003, MCB UP Limited
Aircraft floor covering
Aircraft floor covering
Keywords: Aircraft, Flooring, Materials
A new lightweight aircraft floor covering – which could help airlines save millions of pounds and replace conventional carpeting in aircraft – was launched recently at the Aircraft Interiors Expo 2003 event in Hamburg.
Flytex, manufactured by UK-based company Bonar Floors, weighs less than 1,000 g/m2. That compares to conventional aircraft carpet, which weighs an average of 1,720 g/m2.
Bonar Floors states that with every kilogram equivalent to a saving on running costs of $150 per year, fitting Flytex to an Airbus 340-500, for example, would reduce fuel costs by approximately $32,000 a year. A Boeing 747-400 fitted with Flytex could save approximately $48,000 in fuel costs over a 1 year period.
Specifically designed for the aircraft industry using flocking technology and expertise gained over 40 years, Flytex is described as incredibly hard wearing and durable, simple to clean, comfortable underfoot and water proof.
Stated to be fully compliant with all requisite regulations, it can reportedly be installed easily in less time than conventional carpet as it requires no edge binding prior to fitting. Bonar Floors also reports that it will not fray when cut and that it also includes a layer of the fire regardant Nomex, the same material used in driver and pit crew clothing in Formula 1.
From a commercial perspective, Flytex is believed to offer the aircraft industry new opportunities for branding. Because patterns can be printed onto Flytex, it will also allow operators to incorporate logos or complex graphics into their floor designs. These printed designs can be co-ordinated with other interior furnishings. Bonar Floors has a well-established design studio, which will work on a one to one basis with customers to develop bespoke printed floor coverings that could incorporate airline logos or other branding.
Details available from: Bonar Floors. Tel: +44 (0) 1773 744121; Fax: 01773 744142; E-mail: flytex@bonarfloors.com; Web site: www.flytex.net