For private owners, corporate flight departments, and Part 135 operators in Metro Atlanta, understanding the FAA's stance on cleaning is critical for ensuring airworthiness, maintaining regulatory compliance, and preserving the value of your asset.
The Critical Connection: Cleaning as Preventative Maintenance
The most important concept for aircraft owners to grasp is that meticulous cleaning is the foundation of effective Preventative Maintenance.
14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A
The regulation defines certain items as preventive maintenance, which includes washing, waxing, and polishing. Crucially, any work that falls under the category of maintenance—or is listed as such in the aircraft's Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Maintenance Manuals—must be performed or signed off by a certified A&P Mechanic.
The Logbook Requirement
For many operations (especially Part 135), the cleaning process itself is an integral part of the maintenance program and requires proper logbook documentation. This ensures that the aircraft's service history is complete and verifiable.
The AllSouth Differentiator
Our team is trained to execute every aircraft detailing service with an acute awareness of these FAA guidelines. We ensure our services integrate seamlessly with your existing maintenance programs.
FAA Guidance on Corrosion Control (AC 43-4B)
The FAA's primary concern with a dirty aircraft is not aesthetics—it's corrosion. The Advisory Circular (AC) 43-4B, Corrosion Control for Aircraft, explicitly emphasizes the vital role that cleaning plays in mitigating corrosion, which is a major safety and structural risk.
Early Detection
Professional detailing acts as a meticulous inspection. Our technicians are trained to identify the early signs of corrosion, stress cracks, fluid leaks, and paint damage that hide beneath layers of exhaust soot, bug residue, and environmental grime.
Targeted Contaminant Removal
We focus on the high-risk zones highlighted by the FAA and OEMs: wheel wells, landing gear, flap tracks, and belly surfaces. Residues from de-icing fluids and jet exhaust are highly corrosive and must be neutralized and removed using specialized products that meet aerospace standards.
The Non-Negotiable Requirement: Manufacturer-Approved Chemicals
A major point of emphasis in FAA guidance and OEM manuals is the strict control over the cleaning agents used on an aircraft. There is no generic "FAA Approved" sticker on a cleaning product.
OEM Approval is King
The true standard is set by the Aircraft Manufacturer (OEM), who specifies which products, standards (like AMS or Boeing specs), and techniques are safe for their components, including acrylic windows, composites, and specialized sealants.
The Risk of Unapproved Products
Using harsh, non-aviation-grade chemicals (like common automotive degreasers or window cleaners containing ammonia) can lead to:
- Hydrogen Embrittlement in critical metal parts.
- Crazing and hazing on polycarbonate and acrylic windows.
- Corrosion of aluminum and magnesium alloys.
Our Commitment to Compliance
At AllSouth, we only use aviation-safe, pH-balanced and OEM-approved cleaning agents and detailing products, guaranteeing the chemical integrity of your aircraft's components.
Crucial Takeaways for Aircraft Owners and Operators
To maintain a compliant, safe, and high-value aircraft, your detailing partner must operate with an understanding of FAA and OEM requirements.
| Compliance Area | AllSouth Aircraft Detailing Standard |
|---|---|
| Product Selection | Exclusive use of aviation-grade chemicals that meet manufacturer and industry standards (e.g., AMS specifications). |
| Safety & Protection | Adherence to protocols, including covering pitot tubes, static ports, and sensors before washing to prevent damage. |
| Record Keeping | Providing thorough documentation and service logs that integrate with your required preventive maintenance records. |
| Operational Focus | Mobile service at PDK, LZU, FTY, RYY and various GA airports focused on Part 91 and Part 135 compliance needs for quick, documented turnarounds. |
Don't leave your aircraft detailing to a standard auto-detailer. Partner with professionals who understand that a clean aircraft is a compliant aircraft.