Aircraft Detailing & Cleaning Service
Detail and clean aircraft inside and out
Overview
Aircraft detailing services charge $200-$2,000 per detail depending on aircraft size.
Detailing 100-300 aircraft annually generates $120,000-$600,000 annually with 70-90% margins.
In 2025, aircraft owners need regular detailing for maintenance and resale value.
Services include exterior wash and wax, interior cleaning and detailing, windscreen polishing, engine compartment cleaning, corrosion prevention treatment, and pre-sale detailing.
Successful aircraft detailing businesses understand aviation-approved products, work carefully around sensitive components, provide mobile service to hangars, maintain scheduling with aircraft owners, and deliver show-quality results.
Can combine with other services.
Marketing through airports, FBOs, aircraft management companies, and brokers.
Required Skills
- Detailing Techniques
- Aviation Products Knowledge
- Aircraft Handling
- Customer Service
- Efficiency
- Quality Control
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Low startup costs
- Recurring service for aircraft owners
- Can provide mobile service
- High margins on detailing
- No A&P license required
Cons
- Physical demanding work
- Weather affects outdoor detailing
- Seasonal patterns
- Must use aviation-approved products
- Competition from FBO services
How to Get Started
- Learn aircraft detailing techniques
- Invest in aviation-approved products and equipment
- Develop efficient detailing process
- Market to aircraft owners at airports
- Provide mobile service to hangars
- Build reputation for quality work
- Expand with additional staff
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