Geneva, Switzerland-based Dassault Aviation Business Services (DABS), a member of the Dassault MRO network, has developed a new refurbishment and repair programme for Falcon 7X VIP seats.
There are six new design styles, drawing on the modern designs found in the 6X and 8X, which can be applied to Decrane seats found in the vast majority of Falcon 7X aircraft.
The Geneva team used 3D printing technology to test and develop a brand new plug-and-play kit for refurbishing the seat. The new kit complies with all certification requirements (weight, retentions, absence of sharp edges and burn testing) to be qualified as a minor modification by DABS under Part 21.
Also, a new backrest configuration can be removed or replaced in under a minute to access internal mechanisms, such as the lumbar support adjustment or seat belt mechanisms. The company said that previously, such access required cutting through foam.
Given sufficient advance notice, about 70% of the seat refurbishment work can be done ahead of aircraft induction. DABS now offers a five-week aircraft downtime for a seat refurbishment project on any Falcon 7X. The company said that previously, this type of refurbishment could take up to 12 weeks.
Quick scratch repairs
DABS has also developed an offering called Smart Cabinetry Repairs. “When it comes to the appearance of wood surfaces, we can make quick repairs that might otherwise have to wait for the next opportunity for a full cabin refurbishment,” said Cyrille Pillet, VP of customer support and technical services at DABS. “With new techniques we can lower the cost of removing scratches and refinishing surfaces. It’s very helpful for aircraft used in charter or other intensive operations.”
These localised repair solutions for high-gloss varnish areas can be done at any location in less than two hours, DABS said. The team can remove scratches up to about 3in (7.6cm). The process involves UV curing, a new technology applied at large scale at the Dassault Little Rock completion centre.
DABS is a Center of Excellence for aircraft interiors, supporting other Dassault MRO facilities.
