Explained: Why Are Airplanes Painted White
Image: Unsplash
14 April 2024
Most commercial aircraft feature white liveries with a little colour typically around the tail
Image: Unsplash
Many people have wondered why and this has long been a topic of speculation
Image: Unsplash
Initially, the planes retained their shiny metallic colour. Their chrome chassis is virtually iconic when recalling the early years of aviation
Image: Pexels
However, a plane experiences different weather phenomena, and metals tend to corrode
Image: Unsplash
Therefore, paint is used to protect the skin of the aircraft for a longer duration. It is also cheaper in the longer run during maintenance
Image: Pexels
Planes are in direct sunlight for several hours. Some are also at the airport for a long time. White paint absorbs less heat and makes it cheaper to keep the inside of the planes cool
Image: Unsplash
Paints react differently depending on how much sunshine they are exposed to. Coloured paints fade with time, however, white paint does not have the same problem
Image: Unsplash
It also allows for defects or damage to be spotted more easily. Cracks, dents and oil leakage are more noticeable on a white body plane than colourful ones
Image: Unsplash
The white body would have more contrast and reduces the risk of birds hitting the plane
Image: Pexels
Check More Stories
Image: Unsplash
ndtv.com