FAQs

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CLEAN MY AIRCRAFT?

Just as with your car, frequency of cleanings is a function of use and current condition. If you take care to remove dirt, oils, and other contaminants within a reasonable time (typically monthly) then one must only be concerned with increased usage.

The key? The more you use your aircraft, the more often it should be cleaned!

Secondly, every owner should take steps to prevent oxidation and contaminants from adhering to their aircraft via paint sealants, waxes, etc. Not only do these methods provide barriers of protection, they can even revitalize paint’s appearance and lead to less frequent cleanings.

Take a look at our Expert Tips to discover ways to keep your aircraft looking great with less hassle.

WHAT ARE SOME GENERAL CLEANING TIPS FOR MY AIRCRAFT?

Leather Seat Stains: If you’re struggling to remove an ink stain or (worse) a wine spill, you know that keeping your aircraft’s leather looking great can be a tough job. To be prepared for these accidents, be ready with a small “fly-away” kit with an approved leather cleaner and spot cleaner. Your seat’s manufacturer should tell you which cleaners are safe for your leather types and may even provide one free of charge! However, if your leather seats are looking worn out, it may be time for a full cleaning and reconditioning to restore the look and feel of them.

Window Cleaning: Your aircraft’s windows are surprisingly one of the easiest places to damage if cleaned incorrectly. To keep from damaging them, NEVER use ammonia-based cleaners or paper towels to clean them. Instead, stick with an approved aviation window cleaner (based on your windscreen’s type), and utilize only high-quality microfiber or cotton terrycloth towels.

Metal Brightwork Care: If your aircraft is equipped with metal brightwork, it’s very important to remember these areas need specialized treatment to keep their appearance. Although many systems exist to hand polish these metals, we always recommend that you hire professionals to do this service. If done incorrectly, you can permanently damage these surfaces which may end in needing them replaced! When done correctly, brightwork polishing removes oxidation, watermarks, and small scratches while enhancing the appearance of the aircraft.

Aircraft Paint Care: After a few years, it’s no secret that even the best-kept aircraft paint starts to become oxidized and dull in appearance. Soaps and chemical degreasers often are the cause of these issues; however, you can reduce (and nearly eliminate) these issues with your aircraft’s paint by applying for an approved sealant yearly. We always recommend a professional does this process since it usually involves the use of high-speed buffers to remove oxidation; however, the end result is a paint with a like-new appearance with protection from UV Rays and oxidation. In addition, the sealant can reduce parasitic drag and may even result in fuel savings!

Protecting Carpet: Protecting your aircraft’s carpets from Mother Nature is as simple as providing a way for entering passengers and crew members to wipe their feet. Although many FBO’s roll out the red carpet on arrival, by having an additional carpet on board, people entering the cabin can wipe off any last-minute debris thus saving your carpet from accumulating these items.

WHAT AIRCRAFT CLEANING CHEMICALS SHOULD I USE TO CARE FOR MY PLANE OR HELICOPTER?

You must always take care to ensure the products you use are safe for your particular aircraft. Typically, you can find a list of approved substances in your Pilot Operating Handbook, or by contacting the aircraft’s manufacturer.

CAN I USE WINDEX ON MY AIRCRAFT’S WINDOWS?

No! You should never use any ammonia-based cleaner on your aircraft’s windows as it may cause crazing, or micro-cracks in the window’s surface that limit visibility. The end result may damage the windows so bad, it will require you to replace the entire windscreen!

DO YOU RECOMMEND HAVING A COMPANY LIKE IMMACULATE FLIGHT TO TAKE CARE OF MY PLANE?

Of course! In all seriousness though, there are many companies that claim to clean aircraft. However, many of these companies clean planes IN ADDITION to other offerings (cars, boats, etc) and thus have less training and experience than a professional aircraft cleaning company. In addition, there are a striking number of small companies popping up that are inexpensive; however, lack the proper tools, chemicals, and even insurances to clean your aircraft.

Having a professional company take care of your aircraft means at the very least they carry documented insurances and are able to prove the tools and products they use are in fact aviation grade and approved for your aircraft.

WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE THE MONEY TO HAVE A DETAILING COMPANY CLEAN MY PLANE?

This is a common misconception. If you, your company, or your flying organization already have an established budget; oftentimes professional aircraft cleaning companies can work with you to customize a plan that will suit your needs without breaking the bank. Many times you can even have a set monthly plan that ensures consistent billing while ensuring your aircraft is kept looking great year-around.

WHERE IS IMMACULATE FLIGHT LOCATED AT?

Since we’re a 100% mobile detailing company, we can come to nearly every airport, airstrip, or even field around the United States. We do however have multiple “Based Locations” located in key areas around the US to serve you.

WHAT IF I’D LIKE IMMACULATE FLIGHT TO COME TO A LOCATION NOT LISTED?

No problem! In fact, we happily take on challenging projects that require us to travel outside our marked locations. We also encourage you to Contact Us 24/7/365 to discuss your specific needs.

WHAT TIME DOES IMMACULATE FLIGHT OPEN?

Technically, we’ve never closed since we opened in 2001. We’re open 24/7, 365 days a year. The only thing that may ‘limit’ our availability to clean your aircraft is a local airport’s operating hours.

WOULD IMMACULATE FLIGHT REALLY COME TO MY PLANE AT 300AM?

Yes, but only if the airport is open ????

CAN YOU ORDER CATERING FOR MY FLIGHT?

Unfortunately not since we only clean planes; but we’d be happy to point you to a local FBO that would love to take care of your catering needs!