Surface Textured Integral Finish Glass Fibre Laminate for Aircraft Interiors

THE trend to ‘hard’ trim aircraft interiors is explained and the range of available materials is surveyed. Although aesthetically and economically attractive, thermoplastic sheet materials are deficient in certain properties particularly for freighter and dual role aircraft. Against this background the HS. 748 Military Freighter version featured the use of an all G.R.P. interior which was unique in that the visible surface was a textured finish gel‐coat integral with the laminate. The design and production problems involved with this approach are discussed and an overall assessment of service experience is attempted.