What You Need to Know About Aircraft Hydrographics

From classic woodgrain finishes to bold custom designs, hydrographics are transforming aircraft interiors. This versatile, durable, and cost-effective process lets operators and owners create cabins with executive sophistication or a truly personal touch.

What Exactly Is Hydrographics?

Hydrographics, is a water-transfer process that applies a printed film onto solid materials, such as aircraft cabinetry. Think of it as wrapping cabinetry in a lightweight, durable, and highly customizable design layer.

How the Process Works:

1. Aircraft components are removed, stripped, cleaned, and primed.

2. A hydrographic film is floated on water, then activated to dissolve into a liquid pattern.

3. The prepared items are dipped, rinsed, and the pattern bonds seamlessly to the surface.4. A protective clear coat is applied, and the items are reassembled and reinstalled in the aircraft.

The result? A seamless finish that mimics wood, stone, carbon fiber, or something completely custom.

Where Can Hydrographics Be Applied?

If it’s part of your aircraft’s cabinetry, chances are it can be hydro-dipped. Popular applications include:

• Bulkheads & doors

• Cabinets & tables

• Seat trays & accent pieces

• Drink rails & countertops

• Lavatory sinks & sidewalls

(Note: sidewalls may need touch-ups sooner since they see more wear from contact.)

Design Options: Classic or Creative

Hydrographics open the door to nearly any look you can imagine:

• Traditional: Polished woodgrain, marble, stone

• Modern: Carbon fiber, metallics, textured patterns

• Bold: Flames, skulls, flags, floral prints

• Custom: Your brand logo or a one-of-a-kind designFor operators managing multiple aircraft, custom films can even unify a fleet with consistent branding.

Cost, Durability, and Downtime

• Cost: Typically 10–20% less than new veneer installations.

• Durability: Just as strong as veneers, with a protective clear coat to guard against wear,fading, or cracking.

• Lifespan: With occasional refinishing of the clear coat (a quick “scuff-and-buff”),hydrographics can last for years.

• Downtime: Generally 6–8 weeks, faster than the 8–12 weeks required for new veneers.

What to Look for in a Shop?

Not all hydro-dipped finishes are created equal. A quality shop should:

• Be certified by a hydrographic film provider

• Provide consistent patterns across all cabinetry components

• Show no bubbles, cracks, or distortions

Hydrographics vs. Veneer: The bottom line

Hydrographics offer aircraft owners and operators:

• More design flexibility

• Lower cost and shorter downtime

• Easier future repairs (film patterns can be replicated, unlike veneers). Whether you’re refreshing a single jet or refurbishing 

In short: Hydrographics make it possible to have a cabin that looks as stunning and unique as the journey it takes you on.

Aircraft Interior Hydrographics - C&L Aero