Aircraft Specialized Belly Cleaning The Hidden Challenge

The article highlights the often-overlooked issue of dirt accumulation on an aircraft's belly, a mix of hydraulic fluids, oils, and pollutants that affect fuel efficiency, inspection accuracy, and maintenance. Hydraulic leaks, runway residue, and atmospheric contaminants create persistent layers that increase corrosion risks and operating costs.

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Even minor grime buildup can raise fuel consumption significantly, costing airlines millions annually. Advanced robotic systems, like those developed by Nordic Dino Robotics, offer precise, automated solutions capable of cleaning difficult-to-reach belly areas, enhancing operational efficiency and promoting sustainability in the aviation industry.

Every 2 to 6 months, a commercial aircraft undergoes a complete wash — an undertaking that can require up to 11,000 litres of water and several hours of work. When an aircraft is operated in harsh climates or frequently serves high-pollution routes, this timeframe shrinks to monthly. Interestingly, despite these regular cleaning cycles, one area is oftentimes overlooked, even though it is precisely that area that accumulates dirt the fastest - the belly of the aircraft.

For airlines, this isn’t just a cosmetic concern. The buildup represents a complex mixture of hydraulic fluids, engine oils, runway residue, and atmospheric pollutants that can add weight, impact fuel efficiency, and mask critical inspection areas, says Veronika Andrianovaite, Chief Commercial Officer of Nordic Dino Robotics. According to her, this is why you need to pay close attention to the aircraft's belly when cleaning.

The Science of Aircraft Belly Contamination

The aircraft belly becomes a collection point for contamination through a perfect storm of mechanical, environmental, and aerodynamic factors working together during every flight.