Inside Private Jet Detailing: What Actually Happens

Pre Service Inspection

Before any cleaning begins, technicians conduct a comprehensive walkthrough. This inspection documents existing conditions, identifies areas requiring special attention, and determines which products and methods will be used.

Inspection Checklist

• Photograph existing conditions for client records
• Note existing damage, scratches, or wear areas
• Identify paint type and condition (clear coat vs single stage)
• Check for fuel stains, hydraulic fluid, or oil residue
• Assess cabin fabric, leather, and wood veneer condition
• Document any odors or contamination issues

This inspection protects both the client and the detailing company. Pre existing damage is documented so there's no confusion about what occurred during service.

Exterior Detailing Process

Step 1: Initial Rinse

The aircraft is rinsed with deionized or filtered water to remove loose dirt and debris. This prevents scratching during the wash process. Wheel wells and landing gear receive special attention to flush out accumulated dirt.

Step 2: pH Neutral Wash

Aviation approved, pH neutral soap is applied using foam cannons or soft brushes. Technicians work from top to bottom, ensuring complete coverage. The soap dwells for several minutes to loosen bonded contaminants before rinsing.

Step 3: Decontamination

Clay bar treatment removes bonded contaminants that washing cannot eliminate—industrial fallout, tree sap, insect remains, and overspray. The clay is lubricated and worked across the surface panel by panel.

Step 4: Paint Correction (If Needed)

Oxidation, scratches, and swirl marks are removed through multi stage polishing. Cutting compounds remove deeper defects, medium polish refines the surface, and finishing polish eliminates micro marring.

Step 5: Protection Application

Depending on the service level, the aircraft receives wax, sealant, or ceramic coating. Each product is applied according to manufacturer specifications and buffed to a high gloss finish.

Step 6: Glass and Windows

Acrylic windows require special care to avoid scratching. Aviation specific window cleaners are applied with soft microfiber towels. Anti static treatments help repel dust.

Step 7: Tires and Landing Gear

Tires receive cleaning and dressing (if approved by the operator). Landing gear is degreased and wiped clean. Brake assemblies are inspected and cleaned carefully to avoid contaminating brake pads.

Interior Detailing Process

Step 1: Debris Removal and Vacuuming

All loose items are removed and stored. The cabin is vacuumed thoroughly—seats, carpets, overhead bins, and air vents. HEPA filtration ensures dust doesn't recirculate.

Step 2: Leather Cleaning and Conditioning

Aviation approved leather cleaners remove body oils, dirt, and stains. After cleaning, pH balanced conditioners restore suppleness and prevent cracking. Products are matched to the specific leather type (aniline, semi aniline, pigmented).

Step 3: Carpet and Fabric Care

Carpets receive hot water extraction (steam cleaning) to remove embedded dirt. Stains are pretreated with appropriate removers. Fabric seats and panels are cleaned with low moisture methods to prevent overwetting and mildew.

Step 4: Wood Veneer and Hard Surfaces

Wood veneers are cleaned with products designed for aviation finishes. Harsh cleaners that might damage lacquer or polyurethane are avoided. Plastic trim, counters, and panels are cleaned and dressed.

Step 5: Galley and Lavatory

Food preparation areas are sanitized with FAA approved disinfectants. Stainless steel is polished to mirror finish. Sinks, toilets, and fixtures receive deep cleaning. Odor sources are identified and treated.

Step 6: Windows and Displays

Interior windows are cleaned with streak free formulas. Touchscreen displays and instrument panels are wiped with electronics safe cleaners that won't damage coatings or circuits.

Step 7: Final Touches

Carpets are groomed. Leather is buffed. Windows are rechecked. Air vents are freshened. Every surface is inspected under lighting to ensure completeness.

Post Service Inspection

The lead technician conducts a final walkthrough, checking every area against the pre service notes. Any areas not meeting standards are addressed immediately.

If the client is present, a guided tour highlights the work completed and explains recommended maintenance between details.

Time Requirements

Service duration depends on aircraft size and service level:

• Light jet (Citation, Learjet): 4 8 hours for full detail
• Midsize jet (Hawker, Challenger): 8 12 hours for full detail
• Large cabin (Gulfstream, Global): 12 20 hours for full detail
• Paint correction and ceramic: Add 24 48 hours for curing

Quick turns (exterior wash and cabin vacuum) can be completed in 60 90 minutes for immediate departures.

Why Professional Detailing Matters

Aircraft detailing requires knowledge that automotive detailers don't possess. Aviation materials, approved products, airside safety protocols, and proper techniques separate professional aircraft detailers from general car wash operators.

The investment in professional service protects your aircraft's value, preserves warranties, and ensures safety standards are maintained throughout the process.