Story ID: 
Fokker Aircraft Services Offers Aircraft ‘Re-skinning’
By: David A. Lombardo
Caption: Netherlands-based Fokker Aircraft Services (FAS) has added aircraft interior “re-skinning” to its maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities.
Word Count: 186
Netherlands-based Fokker Aircraft Services (FAS) has added aircraft interior “re-skinning” to its maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities. According to Stephen Hands, v-p of marketing and sales, the company is now one of only a few MRO providers in Europe to offer the service. The shop uses a vacuum applicator to re-skin the side panels, luggage bins and ceiling panels of aircraft interiors regardless of size or aircraft type. “Re-skinning is a much more economical solution for older aircraft than installing a complete new interior,” said Robert Koolen, Fokker Aircraft Services sales manager for airframe MRO. “With so many cost-conscious operators seeking ways to prolong the life of their investment, they quickly recognize that re-skinning offers an easy, effective and affordable alternative.” The vacuum applicator is also being used to facilitate Fokker Aircraft Services’ VIP completions activities in its aircraft conversions and completion center, and is part of the company’s overall strategy to increase its backshop capabilities. Because the machine is not type-specific, it is already being used to refurbish Fokker 100s and F28s, as well as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Embraer aircraft.