Aircraft Paint Inspection
Procedures
Ensuring Quality in Primer, Top Coat, and Final Finishes
Introduction to Post-Paint
Inspections
Purpose Stages
Identify and address defects Primer, top coat, and final
in paint applications. paint inspections.
Importance
Ensures quality standards and compliance with lessee agreements.
Inspection Tools and
Techniques
Torch Inspection Mirrors
Shine along surface, not For hard-to-reach areas.
perpendicular, particularly near
doors/openings or disturbances in
any surface.
Tape Paint Thickness Gauge
Mark defects for easy identification Dry Film Thickness (DFT) readers
measure paint thickness in Microns
(μ) to ensure proper application
and identify potential defects.
Recording and Highlighting Defects
Permission Methods Purpose
Always seek approval before recording Photograph defects and mark them Helps painters locate and address
defects. with tape. issues efficiently.
Lessee Representative
Considerations
If the aircraft is transitioning, consider involving the lessee's
representative.
1 Bare Metal Inspection (BMI)
May not require lessee presence.
2 Intermediate Stages
Lessee involvement as needed.
3 Final Finish Inspection
Often includes lessee for quality verification.
Once the aircraft meets standards, the representative usually signs off to
confirm their satisfaction.
Inspection Zones
Depending on the aircraft's size, primers, and paint, the inspection
operation is often divided into sections.
Wings and Stabilizers Engines
Tail Sections Fuselage (including
windows)
However, this may vary based on the contract, aircraft, or facility.
Zonal Inspection Approach
Use Livery Drawings
1 Mark defects on diagrams.
Track Issues
2 Help verify resolved problems.
Multiple Copies
3 Print for thorough documentation.
Example of paint defects on aircraft
Runs/Sags Orange Peel Pinholes Fish eyes
Excess paint accumulates in A textured surface caused by Small holes in the paint Causes - Presence of oils or
areas where the surface is uneven paint application. caused by air bubbles or fluids on the surface;
not level. contamination. improper pre cleaning
Sand Papering Effect Blistering Dust Inclusions
Causes - Primer not Causes - Moisture trapped Causes - Incorrect surface
sufficiently sanded; improper under paint; Oil or grease prep; bad weather during
pre cleaning; presence of reaction paint can cause dust to shake
dust/grit from ceiling areas
Snag Marking on Aircraft
Snag Marking on Aircraft refers to the practice of identifying and documenting defects, damages, or maintenance issues on an
aircraft during inspections or routine checks. These "snags" are typically recorded in maintenance logs or snag sheets and are
addressed before the aircraft is deemed airworthy.
1 Surface Damage 2 Component Malfunctions 3 Fluid Leaks
A dent or scratch on the aircraft An inoperative landing gear Oil or hydraulic fluid leakage from
fuselage, such as from ground indicator light. engines or control systems.
handling equipment.
4 Wear and Tear 5 Electrical Issues
Frayed control cables or worn tires. Faulty wiring or a non-functional cockpit instrument.
Conclusion and Final Notes
Key Takeaways Documentation
Proper tools and techniques Thorough recording ensures
are essential for quality client satisfaction.
inspections.
Collaboration
Working with lessee representatives adds value.
Knowledge Check
What defect is this? What defect is this? What defect is this? What defect is this?
How does it happen? How does it happen? How does it happen? How does it happen?
What defect is this? What defect is this? What defect is this?
How does it happen? How does it happen? How does it happen?
Knowledge Check
DFT / Paint Borer Flashlight Inspection Mirrors
What is this used to identify? hat is this used to identify? hat is this used to identify?
Knowledge Check
What is the best angle to shine a Why is it important to photograph At which stage is a lessee
torch for inspections? and tape defects? representative most likely to be
present?
A. Perpendicular to the surface A. To make it easier for painters to
identify and resolve them A. During BMI
B. Along the surface
B. To speed up the inspection process B. During the final finish inspection
What is the purpose of using livery drawings during inspections?
A. To record and track defects
B. To save time
Practical Activity: Simulated Inspection
Review Images
1
Examine provided aircraft section models.
Identify Defects
2
Spot issues in paint finish.
Mark on Diagram
3
Record defects on livery diagram.
