Reflections December 2019 Year End Issue

AEROSPACE COATINGS MAGAZINE
DECEMBER 2019

REFLECTIONS

2019

Another year
leading the pack!

REFLECTIONS

FOREWORD long-term relationships with airlines and aircraft
Over the last 12 months, we can reflect on some incredible painting facilities, and within these pages you
will find many examples of how our products and
stories and achievements, and look forward to an equally teams are helping to bring unique livery designs
to life. You will also see examples of bespoke
busy and successful year ahead in 2020. projects – in the commercial and the general
aviation space – where the brilliance of our colors
What an incredibly exciting year it and the skills of our product development teams
has been, with AkzoNobel once have been tested to the limits and delivered,
again leading the way in extending bringing ideas and designs to life – quite literally,
our global product capabilities, reinforcing in some cases – as works of art.

our long-term customer partnerships, and At AkzoNobel, we are proud of the partnerships
continuing to deliver solutions that align with we create, collaborating with you – our valued
customers – to develop the next generation of
our commitment towards a sustainable future. products to meet the needs of the Aerospace
industry. It’s another reason why we were
In July we announced our intention to acquire particularly delighted to be recognized by
Airbus and receive its inaugural Responsibility
French aerospace coatings manufacturer & Sustainability Award at the aerospace
manufacturer’s Supplier Conference in
Mapaero, with the purpose of further Toulouse, France.

strengthening our global position and extending Reflections is a wonderful opportunity to
showcase the amazing talent in our industry.
our capabilities in the structural and cabin You may have seen we are also using social
media to keep our customers, distributors and
coating sub-segments. Mapaero shares our suppliers up to date with the latest company
and industry news.
passion for innovation, as demonstrated by
As this year closes, I’d like
its range of water-based, eco-friendly products. to thank you all for your
continued support. And
Its reputation has been built over the last here’s to another incredible
year in 2020.
25 years, and we were delighted to conclude John Griffin
the transaction in November and welcome its
140 employees into the AkzoNobel family. Global Segment Director
AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings
Mapaero’s commitment to the environment is

mirrored by our own investment in new product

development. Sustainability has become our Newly qualified by Airbus and now included in
watchword, and I am proud to say that we are the aircraft manufacturer’s specifications, Aerodur
genuinely leading the way in providing sustainable HS 2121 CF Primer is free from chromates, and
solutions for our customers. One example of provides users with numerous performance,
this came with the launch of Aerodur HS 2121 appearance and application benefits. It has the
CF Primer in the summer, AkzoNobel’s latest ability to become a game changer for our industry.
generation selectively strippable system for
aircraft exteriors. Our partnerships with major aircraft
manufacturers are matched only by our similarly

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Features

On the cover... 4 American Airlines 14 Putting the
2019: Another year stands up to cancer ‘Zip’ into ZIPAIR
leading the pack! Tokyo’s stride
American Airlines took its support of the Stand
Publisher Up to Cancer charity to the skies last year, thanks Japan Airlines’ (JAL) low-cost carrier – ZIPAIR
AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings to the help of AkzoNobel and a team of expert Tokyo Inc – gave the specialist coatings team and
Rijksstraatweg 31, 2171 AJ Sassenheim designers. technicians at AkzoNobel a chance to show off
Tel: +31 71 308 2030 their design and manufacturing skills.
6 United Action
Editor The partnership with United Airlines is 16 ‘The Scandinavian way’ leads
Sarah Skinner helping change the way customers think and feel to new livery for SAS aircraft
about the United brand.
Designer 17 AkzoNobel launches new social
Simon Tripcony media drive for Aerospace
Coatings
Production Coordinator
Stuart Melville 8 Work of art 18 Airbus ‘pioneers’
sustainable
Follow us online: 10 AkzoNobel team approach
gives Alaska
aerospace.akzonobel.com Airlines a Buzz! There’s good reason why Airbus describes itself
as a ‘pioneer’ in the aerospace industry.
How do you like the AkzoNobel Aerospace Could the superheroes at AkzoNobel conjure up
Coatings magazine? If you wish to provide the magic formulas needed for the launch of 20 Talent spotting
feedback and suggestions or would simply Alaska Airlines’ unique tribute to Pixar Pier? AkzoNobel is supporting a new drive
like to be added to our mailing list, please And could they do it in time? in Ireland to equip the aircraft spray painters of
email: [email protected] tomorrow.
12 A 'dream' design for the 22 AkzoNobel finds the ideal
The AkzoNobel logo is a trademark of AkzoNobel. © AkzoNobel 2019 Redline air display team
French exchange to extend
13 How the fight to save the solutions capability
coral reefs went global 23 Reflected glory

REFLECTIONS

American Airlines
stands up to cancer

American Airlines took its support of the Stand Up to Cancer charity to the
skies last year, thanks to the help of AkzoNobel and a team of expert designers.

Billed at the time as ‘one of the most The overwhelming response to the campaign created considerable excitement within the AkzoNobel team,
unique and personal donation campaigns and careful planning was required to fulfil a design that could incorporate every name. Skilfully applied by
ever created’, the initiative promised Dean Baldwin Painting, the result was unique in every sense of the word: “We are proud to have supplied our
everyone who donated US$25 or more to qualified aerospace coatings and market leading Basecoat / Clearcoat system Aerodur 3001 / 3002 for such a
the charity to have their loved-one’s names worthy campaign,” said Chris Schroh, AkzoNobel’s Commercial and MRO Sales Specialist.
recorded on the airlines’ official Stand Up to
Cancer aircraft. In all, more than 22,000 names “The design stands as a fantastic honor to those affected by cancer and we are delighted to have played
were added, honouring those whose lives had a small part in helping the charity achieve its mission of making every cancer fighter a long-term survivor.”
been affected by the disease.

5

“We are proud to have
supplied our aerospace

coatings for such a
worthy campaign.”

Chris Schroh,
Commercial and
MRO Sales Specialist

REFLECTIONS

United Action

The partnership between United Airlines and AkzoNobel
is helping change the way customers think and feel about
the United brand.

Partnership is an often over-used word but From a design perspective, United wanted palette that will now adorn future United aircraft:
it describes perfectly the relationship to continue its heritage of blue and navy, while Rhapsody Blue, United Blue and Sky Blue.
between United Airlines and AkzoNobel. giving itself the freedom to lean into and explore
It is as partners that specialist teams from additional blue hues inspired, so the company It is these three colors, and AkzoNobel’s Aerodur
AkzoNobel are working with United in a major says, by the different shades of the colorful 3001 Basecoat / Clearcoat coatings system,
rebrand of the airline’s aircraft, and as partners sky people see from their aircraft every day. expertly applied by International Aerospace
too that AkzoNobel’s products and expertise Coatings (IAC), that are bringing a more ‘modern
were chosen for a colorful and exciting project It was with this ambition in mind that energy’ to United’s visual identity according to
that took the visual artform to the skies. specialist designers and Color Development team Robert Mather, AkzoNobel’s Strategic Accounts
from AkzoNobel worked with their counterparts Manager: “We’ve been in partnership with United
It was in April 2019 that United – which has at United to formulate and match the three
a fleet of more than 1,300 aircraft and operates distinct shades from United’s new brand
almost 5,000 flights a day – announced it would
be introducing its new, modernised aircraft livery.
Oscar Munoz, United’s CEO, said at the time “… as
we improve and elevate our customer experience,
we are changing the way people think and feel
about United, and this branding captures that
new spirit.”

Out with the gold, in with the blue

United’s next livery

“United Airlines is on a “Connecting Updated swoop from Tail is a gradient of
journey to transform its people. Uniting our Dreamliner fleet in Rhapsody Blue, United
brand, and we’re proud Rhapsody Blue
to be along for the ride.” the world.” Blue and Sky Blue
painted near
Robert Mather, Larger United wordmark Larger globe
Strategic Accounts Manager the nose logo on tail
painted mainly
Sky Blue

Engines painted Winglets painted Belly of aircraft painted
United Blue solid United Blue Runway Gray

Rhapsody United Runway Sky
Blue Blue Gray Blue

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since securing a long-term contract in 2015, and predominantly in Sky Blue. The engines with the lower half painted in Runway
we’re excited about what the future holds. United and wingtips are also being painted Gray. The company’s mission – ‘Connecting
Airlines is on a journey to transform its brand, and United Blue, and the ‘swoop’, which is people. Uniting the world’ – will also
we’re proud to be along for the ride.” already familiar on United’s Boeing feature near the aircraft doors.
787 Dreamliner fleet, will now The first aircraft to exhibit the new
United is keeping its iconic globe logo on be added to all aircraft in paint scheme, a Boeing 737-800, was
the aircraft tail, said to represent the carrier’s Rhapsody Blue. The United rolled out in the summer of 2019.
expansive route network. The tail design is name will appear larger
also being updated with a gradient in the three on the aircraft body,
shades of blue, while the logo will now appear

REFLECTIONS

Work of art United’s support of under-represented
women in art led to the launch of a
It is not the only project that AkzoNobel has been involved with first-of-a-kind contest, the opportunity
recently and which demonstrates its partnership with United. to display their work on a canvas like no other
Its expert knowledge and proven system capability were also – a Boeing 757.
called upon for a unique art project.
Celebrating under the campaign title
‘Her Art Here’, two women-designed airplanes
– representing the USA’s east and west coasts –
were chosen to appear on a traveling canvas
that will fly 1.6 million miles a year.

The first winning design by artist Corinne
Antonelli is described as a tribute to the New
York/New Jersey region from which she comes.
AkzoNobel’s Aerodur aerospace coatings system
has once again helped bring to life a piece of

“Having my art 9
displayed on a plane
has been the most 17days to paint the aircraft
rewarding feeling
I’ve ever experienced.” 10 250+
gallons of
Corinne Antonelli colors used AkzoNobel paint
in the design required

4,100 hoursfrom
start to
finish

476 2
countries in
which the artwork companies
required to forge
will be seen
a successful
partnership

art with iconic skylines of New York City and were applied by IAC International Aerospace and where different colors can be used on an
the Statue of Liberty, as well as Red Mill in Coatings, and Tsungwei’s design features aircraft (for example around emergency exits) and
New Jersey. quintessential Californian imagery including the high manufacturing quality standards to which
sunglasses, palm trees and the Golden Gate all of our products are tested and approved.”
Seeing the finished piece emblazoned on the Bridge. Tsungwei’s creation was also shaped by
sides of the aircraft, the artist was overcome: her personal journey. The talented artist grew up United has ambitious plans; already the
“There are no words to describe how proud I in Taipei before emigrating to San Francisco third largest airline in the world, new routes
feel,” she said. “My goal as an artist is to have 14 years ago aboard a United Airlines flight. are being added on an almost weekly basis, and
people experience my art rather than just view AkzoNobel’s expertise is in constant demand:
it in a gallery; having it displayed on an airplane Robert Mather says that both projects were “We have a very good relationship with United
has been the most rewarding feeling I’ve ever not without their challenges, and at every stage and are connected at the highest level,” Robert
experienced in my art career.” they worked closely with United, supporting their concludes. “As a business, there is a huge
client’s teams in the field: “With Her Art Here we opportunity in front of us. “It is very much a
The second winning design and newest were working with 10 different colors and that partnership, working together to ‘get things
member of the California fleet was created by adds a further layer of complexity, remembering done’.”
San Francisco resident and artist Tsungwei Moo, also that there are very strict regulations in how
with her tribute to the Golden State. Both designs

REFLECTIONS

AkzoNobel team
gives Alaska
Airlines a Buzz!

It was a race against the clock befitting of a Toy Story script:
could the superheroes at AkzoNobel conjure up the magic
formulas needed for the launch of Alaska Airlines’ unique
tribute to Pixar Pier, a re-imagined land at Disney California
Adventure Park? And could they do it in time?

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The answer, of course, was ‘yes’, but in continents identified and developed formulas handling their needs, and thanks to a fantastic
the best traditions of a Disney cliff- for nearly 100 unique colors and the necessary team effort, we did not disappoint,” said Chris
hangar, it had many within AkzoNobel’s formula books to go with them, so the paint could Schroh, Commercial and MRO Sales Specialist.
teams in Bangalore, India and Troy, US on the be mixed on-site. They were also essential to
edge of their seats. The result, however, has help deliver the tremendous amounts of shading Robert Mather, Strategic Accounts Manager,
been worth the excitement, with a Boeing that was required to bring this one-off aircraft agreed: “It’s so rewarding to see the end result
737-800 alive with some of Disney Pixar’s to life. of such an amazing team effort,” he said. “The
favourite Toy Story characters, including people in our color labs, product development,
Woody, Jessie, and the incomparable, Alaska Airlines has a long-standing partnership customer service, production and shipping, all
unconquerable Buzz Lightyear. with AkzoNobel, a partnership founded on mutual contributed to making this such a successful
trust and a proven capability to deliver. It was project, and proved how global teamwork can
For a time, it was touch and go. The turnaround perhaps no surprise, therefore, that when the really pay off.”
times, which could be measured in hours rather airline needed someone to go to infinity and
than days, and co-ordination between the various beyond for this most special of special projects, it The unique aircraft – named ‘Friendship and
teams were exceptional. Within a very short time- knew who to call: “We were given an opportunity Beyond at Disneyland Resort’ – began flying
frame, color lab teams and technicians on two to prove once again that we were capable of throughout Alaska Airlines’ route network virtually
the moment the paint was dry.

“It’s so rewarding to see
the end result of such an
amazing team effort.”

Robert Mather,
Strategic Accounts Manager

REFLECTIONS

A ‘dream’ design for the
Redline air display team

Performance counts, Nobody knows this better than Ken optimum aerobatic flying machine; and it’s also
especially when you are in Rieder, Flight Leader of the US-based why he’s delighted to be working with AkzoNobel
an air display team whose Redline air display team which has been which has again provided the coating system for
reputation rests on your entertaining crowds with displays of skill, the new livery and design on his latest aircraft.
ability to thrill a crowd. nerve and showmanship for over a decade.
And it’s not just about “Jason Noll of Dream Scheme Designs devised
looking good in the air; “If you’re flying a solo display then nobody the new livery and introduced me to Byerly
you also have to look the notices if you make a mistake,” Ken explains, Aviation who were keen to work with us to show
part on the ground where “but when you’re flying as a pair there’s nowhere off their skills,” Ken explains. “AkzoNobel was
you’ll soon discover that to hide and even the slightest mistakes are working closely with Byerly at the time, and
good looks count! obvious,” he laughs. so we formed the perfect partnership: Jason
provided the design; Byerly the paint shop skills;
Ken, a professional airline pilot by day, insists and AkzoNobel the paint.”
on working with the best: the best pilots; the best
aircraft; and the best suppliers. It’s why he flies Ken has experience of other coatings but is
with either Shaun Roesner and Billy Werth on his impressed with the simplicity of the AkzoNobel
wingtip; it’s why he’s chosen the Van RV8 as the system: “Rather than a single stage, it has a
two-part process – the Basecoat / Clearcoat
system – which achieves a much better shine.
It is also more durable, which is especially
important given that we fly in all conditions
and at all heights, sometimes very close to the
ground. Even after a season of flying the aircraft
still look like they were painted yesterday.”

“Even after a season of flying
the aircraft still look like they
were painted yesterday.”

Ken Rieder, Flight Leader, Redline

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Jill Kokkinen of AkzoNobel’s Aerospace How the fight to save the
Coatings business says that AkzoNobel and coral reefs went global
Redline both share a passion for aviation:
“There is no better way of selling our coating One of our proudest collaborations of 2018 led to a
system to the General Aviation sector than year-round series of proud moments in 2019 thanks
showing it off,” she jokes, “and there are to the Mirpuri Foundation’s stunning Airbus A380.
few better ways of showing it off than with
a world-leading air display team. In 2018, the Mirpuri Foundation and Hi Fly importance of caring for our environment before
partnered on their ‘Save the Coral Reefs’ it’s too late.”
“Byerly has taken a real pride in bringing campaign. A special livery was applied to
Jason’s design to life, and the result is a an Airbus A380 using AkzoNobel’s aerospace The livery was created with 19 colors, many
high-gloss, almost glass-like finish that makes coatings to help carry a global message around of which were custom made for the project. The
you want to come close and touch it. This is the world on one of the most pressing issues striking livery depicts coral reefs, with one side
very important, since part of the air display threatening our planet. of the aircraft displaying a pristine ocean with
‘experience’ is for people to get close to the healthy marine life, while the other shows a
pilots and their aircraft.” During 2019 the aircraft has been on an destroyed coral environment.
incredible journey taking that message around
Ken has a busy schedule planned for 2020: the world. As well as appearing in a jaw-dropping Added Stuart “We’re excited to see where
“We expect to give as many as 15 air displays flying display at Paris Air Show 2019, this one- the Mirpuri Foundation aircraft travels in 2020,
which is as many as we can handle with other of-a-kind plane achieved a series of firsts for the and we’ll be watching proudly as it carries it’s
commitments,” he concludes. “Redline’s new world’s largest passenger airliner. message to the people of the world.”
design is already becoming instantly recognisable
and that’s a great testimony to our partners The Mirpuri Foundation aircraft was also the A series of firsts
AkzoNobel.” first A380 to land in Gran Canaria, Spain and for the world’s largest
visited an impressive range of destinations around passenger airliner:
the world, including Boston, Baku, Athens and
Abidjan to name just a few. The first time
an A380 landed in Madagascar
“The ‘Save the Coral Reefs’ campaign is The first commercial flight operated
something that we all believe in, and perfectly with an A380 to Cairo, Egypt
aligned with AkzoNobel’s commitment to The first of it’s kind
sustainability,” said Stuart Melville, Global to perform a commercial
Marketing Support Specialist, Aerospace Coatings flight to Argentina
at AkzoNobel.

“Seeing that amazing livery around the world,
it’s special to know the message is being carried
to people of all nations and really emphasises the

REFLECTIONS

Putting the ‘Zip’
into ZIPAIR Tokyo’s
stride

Japan Airlines’ (JAL) launch last year of its newest low-cost
carrier – ZIPAIR Tokyo Inc (ZIPAIR) – gave the specialist
coatings team and technicians at AkzoNobel a chance to
show off their design and manufacturing skills, ready for
the airline’s inaugural flights in 2020.

Officially launched in March 2019 with within AkzoNobel who worked closely with their
two Boeing 787-8 aircraft, the new counterparts at ZIPAIR to create the impact the
budget carrier worked with a team airline was looking for.
from AkzoNobel for more than 12 months in
developing the design, color and appropriate Experts from AkzoNobel were also on hand
coatings system for their new livery. to support ZIPAIR & JAL Engineering team and
HAECO Xiamen.
The challenge was to develop three specified
colors – Trust Green, Japan Black, and Harmony The ZIPAIR Team says the result is fantastic:
Gray – specified for the new design. The solution “We have a long and established partnership with
was a combination of AkzoNobel’s Aerodur AkzoNobel and have enjoyed working with them to
Basecoat / Clearcoat – chosen for its proven deliver a coatings solution that not only matches
performance characteristics – and experts from our color design specifications, but also delivers the
reliability and sustainability that we are looking for.”

15

“We have a long and established partnership with AkzoNobel
and have enjoyed working with them to deliver a coatings
solution that not only matches our color design specifications,
but also delivers the reliability and sustainability that we are
looking for.”

The ZIPAIR Team

ZIPAIR will operate two routes starting in
May and July of 2020 to Bangkok and Seoul
respectively. Its plan is to grow the number of
787-8 aircraft in its fleet to 10 within five years.
ZIPAIR is 100% owned by JAL and one of two
low-cost carriers owned by the airline.

The colors were developed at AkzoNobel’s
Troy Research and Development (R&D) centre in
Michigan, USA and manufactured at AkzoNobel’s
facility in Waukegan, Illinois.

REFLECTIONS

‘The Scandinavian way’ leads
to new livery for SAS aircraft

Take two of the most modern and fuel-efficient aircraft on the market, add a splash of color,
the passion of a Scandinavian CEO, and a smorgasbord of expertise from AkzoNobel and the
result is a dazzling new look for SAS in 2020 and beyond.

The airline’s latest fleet of Airbus A350 and and silver-grey engines adorned with blue SAS Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO at SAS
A320neo aircraft have become the first to crowns. Designers have also opted to spell out said the new look was minimalistic yet modern,
feature the Scandinavian operator’s new the word ‘Scandinavian’ on the underside of the something he referred to as ‘the Scandinavian way’:
look – thanks to AkzoNobel’s advanced coating aircraft for people to enjoy from the ground. “The new livery design is a symbol of our future, a
system. more sustainable and a competitive future for SAS,
The design features are said to represent the but one that also embraces our heritage.”
The SAS signature blue now extends from the airline’s sustainable and competitive future and
tail down the body of the aircraft and is picked include a new silver logo to reflect the airline’s AkzoNobel is excited by the role its high-
out on the ‘sharklet’ wingtips. Other changes iconic history which dates back to 1946. Bringing performance coatings are playing in delivering
include the choice of a fresher shade of grey for the new look to life are AkzoNobel’s Aerodur, the CEO’s vision, and excited also to be working
the fuselage, modernized Scandinavian flags Aerobase and Aviox products. closely with the airline as it rebrands its
158-strong fleet over the next five years.

“The new livery is a
symbol of our future, a
more sustainable and a
competitive future for SAS.”

Rickard Gustafson,
President & CEO, SAS

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AkzoNobel launches new social
media drive for Aerospace Coatings

AkzoNobel has expanded its social media activities to build

even greater awareness of its Aerospace Coatings’, business,

people and products.

Led by Digital Communications Specialist Anne Zwaan, Digital Communications Specialist
Anne Zwaan (part of the Automotive and
Specialty Coatings global marketing AkzoNobel’s aerospace social media channels
communications team), the campaign will feature bespoke content around three
includes the launch of a new dedicated pillars and themes that speak to the interests
LinkedIn Aerospace channel to complement of industry professionals: industry news; building
the relaunch of AkzoNobel’s existing Twitter a sustainable future; and innovation.
Aerospace channel.
“We already have more than 1,400 Twitter
AkzoNobel’s social media activities are followers and it is important that we continue to
designed to ensure that customers, distributor engage with them whilst building our LinkedIn
partners and the wider aerospace industry are presence,” Anne continues. “There is a clearly
first to hear about the company’s latest aerospace identified need to further improve the way we
news, innovations and product developments. communicate with our audiences and give our
Audiences can also learn about shows and events sales team the opportunity to share and engage in
that AkzoNobel’s Aerospace Coatings business is conversations to become our Brand Ambassadors.”
attending, and the products being exhibited.
The campaign kicked off in November 2019:
Anne says that the longer-term objective of “Our vision is to become an unmissable destination
the social media channels is to create an ongoing for industry professionals,” Anne concludes.
dialogue with fellow aerospace professionals:
“We want to find ways of building engagement
with the industry, increasing the number of
followers – especially to LinkedIn – and solidifying
our position as a thought leader in the aerospace
coatings industry by showcasing our industry
experts and technicians, innovations and products.”

REFLECTIONS

Photo by A. Doumnejou / Master Films

Airbus ‘pioneers’ sustainable
approach to new coating system

There’s good reason why Airbus describes itself as a ‘pioneer’ in the aerospace industry. There’s

good reason, too, why it puts innovation at the heart of all that it does, promoting (in its words)

‘cutting edge technologies and scientific excellence to contribute to global success.’

This passion for innovation manifests itself Aerodur HS 2121 CF Primer delivers a range But it is the fact that the system is entirely
in many ways, not least in the coatings of performance, appearance and application chromate free that is especially noteworthy,
used on its aircraft exteriors. It demands benefits. Applied at the final assembly stage to according to John Griffin, Global Segment Director,
the best from the technology and its suppliers, virtually all external aircraft surfaces, it offers AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings: “The development
and the best includes a new decorative and increased adhesion without pre-treatment (also of a protective coating system that contains zero
selectively strippable coating system from on rivets), improved corrosion performance and chrome is a significant undertaking that neither
AkzoNobel. The new system – part of the flexibility, and better visual coverage. It also party could have achieved alone,” he said.
Aerodur family – is now qualified by Airbus has enhanced wetting properties, which means “It contributes to our collective sustainability by
and included in the aircraft manufacturer’s less primer needs to be applied, saving time and ensuring that Airbus can continue to deliver safe
future specifications. improving efficiency. aircraft for the next 30 years while also reducing

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Japan Airlines
selects sustainable
coating system for
new A350 fleet

Performance and sustainability were the
deciding factors for Japan Airlines (JAL)
in determining its choice of aircraft
coatings for its new fleet of Airbus aircraft.

It’s why in the summer of 2019 it became
one of the first airlines in the world to select
AkzoNobel’s latest generation decorative and
selectively strippable system for all of its A350
aircraft, now entering service. Vice President
of Procurement at JAL, Kojiro Yamashita, said:
“Japan Airlines has prioritized its commitment to
tackle its environmental, social and governance
commitments through our business activities.
The choice of the Airbus 350 and the selection
of coatings is key to supporting our sustainable
development goals throughout the supply chain.”

The system selected includes the recently-
qualified Aerodur HS 2121 CF Primer and
AkzoNobel’s leading Basecoat / Clearcoat
system, Aerobase and Aviox Clearcoat UVR.

Photo by G. Fraysse / Master Films AkzoNobel’s relationship with Airbus is built “It’s an eco-premium
on mutual trust and respect – a relationship that solution which enables
the use of hazardous materials.” can be traced back to when Airbus first began us to reduce the cost of
Maud Khelstovsky, AkzoNobel’s Key Account manufacturing in the 1970s. It is also built on ownership for our customers
a shared passion for sustainability. Airbus has while boosting their
Manager for Airbus, agrees. She sees the new recently taken this passion a step further and sustainability profile.”
accreditation as building on the company’s launched a Responsibility & Sustainability Award
commitment to innovation: “It’s an eco-premium programme. Taking first prize in the inaugural Maud Khelstovsky,
solution which enables us to reduce the cost of Key Account Manager for Airbus
ownership for our customers while boosting their
sustainability profile,” she added. Awards scheme, and beating 12,000 other Airbus
suppliers in the process, was AkzoNobel.

“The award is for all the employees working
hard across our R&D, operations and functions
whose passion for coatings contributes to our
partnership with Airbus,” Maud concluded. “They
embody our sustainability values every day.”

REFLECTIONS

Talent Apprenticeships are a critical part of
spotting the future work economy. Originating
more than 500 years ago, they are
AkzoNobel is supporting a new drive in Ireland today a global phenomena, helping to equip
to equip the aircraft spray painters of tomorrow. a new generation of industry professionals
with the essential skills they need to succeed
in an increasingly competitive world. They
are particularly popular in the higher-tech
sectors, where businesses are keen to address
a mounting skills shortage. There is also a
strong demand in the Aerospace industry,
where many have been quick to embrace the
benefit of attracting and retaining future talent.

One of those who has been fast out of the
blocks is International Aerospace Coatings (IAC),
a global leader in aircraft painting, interiors
and graphics. With 12 state-of-the-art facilities
across the USA and Europe, and a capacity for
36 lines of aircraft, IAC truly understands the
need to support the next generation of aerospace
professionals. Working across all segments
of the aviation industry, including MRO, OEM,
commercial, military, and general aviation, it
recognises that keeping one step ahead of the
game in terms of skills is not just a ‘nice to have’,
but rather an essential part of its future strategy.

It was for this reason that in 2015 IAC teamed
up with Ireland’s Limerick and Clare Education
Training Board to create a dedicated Apprentice
Aircraft Spray Painting Course. It was for this
reason also that it secured the support of the
Aerospace division of AkzoNobel. Since then, the

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program has gone from strength to strength; the well received from their direct contacts at IAC, “Production management
latest cohort completed their training in October as Claire O’Dwyer – IAC’s HR Business Partner teams, paint shops,
2019, and up to 20 new candidates are lined up confirmed: “As part of the 29-week painting technical engineering,
for the first quarter of 2020. training program, we are lucky to have the support quality control, purchasing
of both the local AkzoNobel Aerospace Technical and management teams
Training commitment and AkzoNobel account management team,” all benefit from the training
she said. we provide.”
AkzoNobel’s involvement stemmed from a
proven commitment to training current and “The AkzoNobel team fully support the program Martin Carter,
future generations of aerospace professionals. by providing theoretical and hands-on training AkzoNobel’s Strategic
Martin Carter – AkzoNobel’s Strategic Account which covers the basic fundamentals of coating Account Manager for IAC
Manager for IAC, Europe – says that AkzoNobel chemistry through to aircraft painting.”
has always delivered theoretical and practical has the solution: “One way we keep their interest
training to its aerospace customers through its The course was originally held at IAC’s is by having regular online reviews supported by
Aerospace Coatings Training centres: “In doing so, facilities in Shannon Airport, and has since personal smartphone apps at the end of every
we can ensure that they optimise and ensure the been rolled out to its sister facility in Dublin. module, and this generates a great sense of
durability and performance of our coatings, and John Mulqueen – Operations Manager for IAC competition.
we can ultimately make the processing of their at Shannon Airport says the training is of an
components and aircraft applications far more excellent standard: “It is delivered by world- “We find this method of engagement helps
efficient,” he explained. class, highly competent paint experts for both the attendees to better remember what we have
theoretical and practical aspects,” he explained. just presented. I think that even if they have only
“What we quickly realised is that training “It gives our trainee candidates a basic knowledge learned and remembered two things from every
clearly benefits anyone within the industry who of aircraft surface preparation and its importance session then that’s two things they didn’t know
seeks an understanding of paint chemistry and along with the application process in detail for when they arrived.”
the processes involved in its production through both priming and painting topcoats. The training
to final livery application. Production management is delivered in such a way that all candidates are IAC has plans to extend the Apprenticeship
teams, paint shops, technical engineering, quality engaged on the subject from the outset.” scheme to two courses a year in Shannon
control, purchasing and management teams all and Dublin. There is also scope for extending
benefit from the training we provide which can Certainly Martin appreciates the wide-ranging the training worldwide. As John Mulqueen
increase efficiency and productivity within any enthusiasm with which their training continues concludes: “IAC has a fantastic partnership with
MRO paint-shop.” to be received: “The training covers everything the AkzoNobel team and look forward to this
from the basics of mixing colors through to the continuing in the future.”
When approached by IAC, Martin and the practical application of the paint,” he says.
AkzoNobel team sought to translate their
commercial training into an Apprenticeship Keeping the students’ attention, Martin admits,
environment. It was work that was particularly can sometimes be a challenge, but he believes he

REFLECTIONS

AkzoNobel finds the ideal French
exchange to extend solutions capability

AkzoNobel capped an From the outset he ensured that innovation aviation coatings to our own aerospace coatings
outstanding year in 2019 has been key to the company’s success: Mapaero team,” he said.
with the acquisition of obtained its Airbus certification for its water-
Mapaero, the French based paints at the start of the new millennium, Eric Rumeau, President and CEO of Mapaero,
aerospace coatings and quickly built a reputation for its green and was similarly delighted with the chance for the
manufacturer, adding eco-friendly approach to product innovation, two businesses to work more closely together:
further strength and depth design and manufacture. “The world-class product ranges from both
to its global aerospace AkzoNobel and Mapaero have an excellent fit
capabilities. The acquisition has certainly stirred excitement and together we’ll further drive our product
within the AkzoNobel family, and the opportunity development, customer service and technical
Mapaero’s expertise, especially within it presents. And John Griffin, Global Segment leadership,” he added.
the structural and cabin coating Director, AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings, stressed
sub-segments, is second to none, and it is not just about the products: “We’re delighted “There’s plenty to be excited about and we’re
is giving AkzoNobel access to an even wider to welcome 140 new colleagues who will bring looking forward to sharing many joint successes
portfolio of products and expertise. More than their expertise and world-class knowledge of with our customers in the coming years.”
this, the integration of the two businesses is
also a meeting of minds: Mapaero’s passion for
innovation and sustainability precisely mirrors
AkzoNobel own proven commitment to serving
its high-profile customers worldwide.

Based in Pamiers, close to Toulouse in France,
Mapaero was founded in 1992 by Jean-Francois
Brachotte. As both a pilot and a chemical engineer, it
could be said he had the perfect combination of skills!

Mapaero Leader in innovative eco-friendly aerospace coatings

Rain Interior Antislip Flexible Durable exterior
erosion cabin walkway wing topcoats and
resistant coatings coatings primers
coatings coatings

Skydrol Insulation coatings Fluid and heat resistant Contrast paint
landing High temperature wheel coatings
Integral fuel tank coatings
gear resistant engine coatings
coatings

23

Reflected glory With the Tri-Motor, the wings were painted
off-site and the coating system shipped to the
The quality of AkzoNobel’s coatings is literally shining preferred specialist, Hove-Air. The result is a
through in its support of the Oshkosh-based Experimental glossy, highly-reflective finish that preserves the
Aircraft Association. original look and feel of the aircraft that would
have made the aircraft’s designers proud.
When it comes to preserving aviation The all-metal Ford Tri-Motor, nick-named ‘the
heritage, there are few better tin goose’ and positioned as the world’s first luxury Jill Kokkinen of AkzoNobel’s Aerospace
operators on a global stage than airliner, was first built in 1925 and less than 200 Coatings business, who worked closely with
the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). had been made by the time is stopped production John and the EAA throughout, believes that
So it’s perhaps no surprise that the experts eight years later after its founder fell-out of love AkzoNobel can continue to play an important
they partner to help keep their aircraft flying with aviation. EAA’s example – built in 1929 – is part in preserving global aviation heritage:
in pristine condition is AkzoNobel. painted in the colors of Eastern Air Transport, “When we were asked to help, the answer was
one of the typical customers of the time. a simple ‘yes’,” she explains, “and over the
The EEA’s fleet comprises some of the most summer season the aircraft gave more than
historic and aesthetically beautiful aircraft of Maintaining the integrity of the aircraft’s 1,000 people the thrill of flying in a space of
their time, and arguably none more so than the aluminium finish was essential. Paints used in only seven days.
iconic Ford Tri-Motor. And when the grand old the 1930s were primarily for aesthetic purposes
lady of the skies needed a makeover and a new only, a bare-metal airframe being adorned with “The ability for passengers and the public to
set of wings, EAA’s Aircraft Maintenance Manager a hand-painted logo. John wanted to achieve the see and touch the body of the aircraft in all its
John Hopkins knew where to turn: same effect, but with a coating that would protect beauty is an integral part of their experience.”
the longevity of the aircraft. AkzoNobel proposed
“We first started working with AkzoNobel using its Alumigrip system comprising a Basecoat So what next for the EAA and AkzoNobel?
in 2018 when they supported us in repainting / Clearcoat and Topcoat – a system that has a Jill has her eye on one of the ‘warbirds’, and
our B25 Mitchell,” John explains. “Restoring legacy of its own having first been used some early discussions are already underway regarding
and maintaining these aircraft takes thousands 50 years ago. the potential re-painting of the collection’s
of hours and the choice of primer and paint is Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress and its historic
critical not only to achieve the authentic color John’s own experience of Alumigrip has been Cessna 172. Whatever the final discussion, John
scheme we are looking for, but also to offer the nothing but positive. And hands on: “It doesn’t sag or knows who to call: “Jill and her team have been
maximum protection against corrosion. run, and goes on really well,” he says. “With the B25, super-helpful in everything they have done so far
technicians from AkzoNobel came to Oshkosh for a and we very much look forward to working with
“We were so delighted with our partnership with couple of days to advise us on how to get the most them again in helping protect our aircraft for
AkzoNobel on the B25 that it was obvious to reach out of the product, and the results were excellent.” thousands more people to enjoy.”
out to them again for the Ford Tri-Motor project.”

aerospace.akzonobel.com

AkzoNobel has a passion for paint. We’re experts in the proud craft of making paints and coatings, setting the
standard in color and protection since 1792. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International,
Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. Headquartered in the Netherlands, we are
active in over 150 countries and employ around 35,000 talented people who are passionate about delivering the
high performance products and services our customers expect.
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