How to Be Aircraft Upholsterer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 20, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Aircraft upholsterers play a critical role in the aviation industry, as their job is to provide comfort and safety for passengers and crew. The upholsterers work is important for many reasons, including the need to reduce weight, increase fuel efficiency and satisfy passengers aesthetic needs. By making sure that the seating and interior surfaces are properly padded and upholstered, the aircraft upholsterer helps to reduce the amount of noise in the cabin, improve passenger comfort, and ensure that the aircraft meets all safety regulations.

upholsterers have to have an eye for detail as they must match fabrics and colors to ensure that the interior of the aircraft looks aesthetically pleasing. By properly padding and upholstering the seats and interior surfaces of an aircraft, aircraft upholsterers can ensure that passengers have a comfortable and safe flight experience.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Aircraft upholsterers need to understand basic math and other concepts, so a high school diploma is typically required.
Pursue a postsecondary certificate or degree in furniture design or upholstery. While not necessary, many employers prefer to hire upholsterers with a certificate or degree in upholstery, furniture design, or a related field. Students in these programs learn how to use tools, fabrics, and materials to create and repair furniture.
Get hands-on experience. Even if you have a certificate or degree, employers may require some hands-on experience. Look for apprenticeships and volunteer opportunities to get the necessary experience.
Obtain the necessary certification. Depending on the state you live in, you may need to obtain a certification in order to become an aircraft upholsterer. Contact your state's Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing for more information.
Apply to aircraft upholstery companies for employment. After you have obtained the necessary education and experience, you can apply to aircraft upholstery companies for employment. Many of these companies specialize in private jets and small commercial aircraft.

The job of an Aircraft Upholsterer involves a great deal of skill and expertise. To be ideal and competent in the field, one needs to have a thorough knowledge of the tools and materials used for upholstery. one must possess strong sewing skills and have the ability to interpret specifications and drawings related to aircraft upholstery.

Furthermore, one should be able to read and interpret blueprints and pattern designs, in order to ensure accuracy in all aspects of upholstery work. an Aircraft Upholsterer must be able to handle multiple projects at once, as well as be able to use a variety of fabrics, foams, and other materials. Lastly, the ability to work safely and adhere to all safety regulations is essential.

With all these skills combined, an Aircraft Upholsterer can become ideal and competent in the field.

You may want to check Upholstery Cloth Cutter, Upholstery Installer Helper, and Upholstery Production Worker for alternative.

Job Description

Cut, sew, and install custom upholstery fabric onto aircraft interior components.
Remove, inspect, and repair existing upholstery fabric on aircraft interior components.
Use hand and power tools to complete upholstery projects.
Measure, cut, and install aircraft seat covers, side panels, headliners, and carpeting.
Install padding and insulation materials as needed.
Fabricate and install custom draperies, blinds, and window covers.
Repair tears or rips in fabric or leather upholstery.
Work with a variety of fabrics, leathers, plastics, vinyls, and other materials.
Clean and refinish aircraft interior components as needed.
Maintain a clean and safe work environment.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aircraft upholstery materials and techniques.
Ability to measure and cut fabric accurately.
Fabrication and installation of seats, headliners, sidewalls and carpets.
Knowledge of applicable FAA regulations and safety standards.
Ability to operate power and hand tools safely.
Knowledge of cleaning, repair and maintenance techniques for aircraft upholstery.
Skilled in the use of adhesives, foam, leather and other materials.
Ability to read blueprints and sketches.
Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Strong attention to detail and quality control standards.

Being an Aircraft Upholsterer requires an array of skill sets to be successful. One of the most important skills to have is a good eye for detail, as aircraft upholstery is a highly detailed and precise craft. Attention to detail is essential for ensuring that all of the upholstery pieces fit together correctly and look aesthetically pleasing.

knowledge of basic sewing techniques, as well as working with various fabrics and materials, is essential for any Aircraft Upholsterer. An understanding of color theory, as well as the ability to accurately measure and cut fabric pieces, are also important skills to possess. Finally, the ability to work with a wide variety of tools and machines is a must for any Aircraft Upholsterer in order to create the best possible product.

With all of these skills combined, an Aircraft Upholsterer's work can be expertly crafted and highly sought after by aircraft owners and passengers alike.

Antique Upholsterer, Upholstery Technician, and Automotive Upholsterer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in aircraft upholstery?
How do you ensure the safety and quality of your work?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a difficult issue with an aircraft upholstery project.
What skills and tools do you use for aircraft upholstery?
How do you work with other team members when completing an aircraft upholstery project?
What challenges have you faced when working on aircraft upholstery projects?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest technology for aircraft upholstery?
Describe a time when you had to think outside of the box to complete an aircraft upholstery project.
How do you handle tight deadlines for aircraft upholstery projects?
What processes do you use to ensure accuracy and consistency in your aircraft upholstery work?

Common Tools in Industry

Staple Gun. Used to secure fabric by driving staples into it. (eg: Upholsterer staples the fabric to the aircraft seat frame)
Sewing Machine. Used to stitch fabric together. (eg: Upholsterer sews together the seat fabric and cushioning)
Needle and Thread. Used to hand-stitch fabric together. (eg: Upholsterer hand-stitches the seams for a tailored look)
Cutting Tool. Used to trim away excess fabric. (eg: Upholsterer uses a cutting tool to trim away excess fabric from the seat frame)
Measuring Tape. Used to measure the fabric and seat frame for an accurate fit. (eg: Upholsterer measures the seat frame to make sure the fabric fits perfectly)
Foam Cutter. Used to cut foam for cushioning. (eg: Upholsterer uses a foam cutter to cut the foam for the aircraft seat cushion)
Iron. Used to press fabric and foam for a smoother look. (eg: Upholsterer irons the fabric and foam for a professional finish)
Spray Adhesive. Used to attach foam and fabric to the seat frame. (eg: Upholsterer sprays adhesive onto the seat frame before attaching the fabric and foam)

Professional Organizations to Know

Aircraft Interiors International (AII)
Aircraft Upholsterers International (AUI)
Aircraft Upholstery Association (AUA)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
International Association of Aviation Interior Specialists (IAAIS)
National Aviation Trades Association (NATA)
Aircraft Interior Products and Services Association (AIPA)
Air Transport Association of America (ATA)
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
Aerospace Industries Association (AIA)

We also have Leather Upholsterer, Upholstery Sales Person, and Foam Cutter/Upholsterer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Upholstery. The art of covering furniture, such as chairs and sofas, with fabric or leather.
Foam. A material made from polyurethane or latex, used in upholstery to provide cushioning and support.
Sewing. The act of stitching fabric together to create a finished product.
Stenciling. The art of creating designs on fabric or leather using a template and paint.
Dyeing. The process of applying color to fabric or leather using dyes or paints.
Cutting. The process of using scissors or a knife to cut fabric or leather into the desired shapes and sizes.
Measuring. The process of determining exact sizing of materials used in upholstery.
Stretching. The act of tugging on fabric or leather to make it fit the desired shape of an object being upholstered.
Gluing. The process of using adhesives to securely attach fabric or leather to a surface.
Finishing. The act of completing an upholstery job, which may include sewing on trim, adding buttons, tacking, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of an Aircraft Upholsterer?

The primary responsibility of an Aircraft Upholsterer is to fabricate, install, and repair interior upholstery and furnishings in aircraft cabins and cockpits.

What type of materials are used in Aircraft Upholstering?

Aircraft Upholsterers typically use fabrics, leather, foam, carpeting, and other materials to create and repair aircraft upholstery.

What qualifications are needed to become an Aircraft Upholsterer?

To become an Aircraft Upholsterer, one must have completed a formal apprenticeship program or have equivalent experience in related fields, such as auto upholstering. Additionally, a working knowledge of aviation regulations and safety protocols is often required.

How long does it typically take to become an Aircraft Upholsterer?

It typically takes about 3-4 years to become an experienced Aircraft Upholsterer, depending on the individual's level of experience and the type of training they have received.

What is the average salary of an Aircraft Upholsterer?

The average salary of an Aircraft Upholsterer is around $45,000 per year.

Web Resources

Aircraft Upholstery and Trim Instructor TCSG | Technical www.tcsg.edu
Upholsterer 3 Career & Professional Development | University ocpd.redlands.edu
Upholsterer 3 Ecampus Career Hub | Oregon State University careers.ecampus.oregonstate.edu