Aircraft Interior Refurbishment

Refurbish and upgrade aircraft interiors

Startup Cost
$50,000-$250,000
Difficulty
Advanced
Time to Profit
15-24 months
Profit Potential
$20,000-$125,000/month

Overview

Aircraft interior shops charge $10,000-$100,000+ per refurbishment.

Completing 10-40 projects annually generates $250,000-$1,500,000 annually with 40-60% margins.

In 2025, aging aircraft interiors need refurbishment for comfort and value.

Services include seat reupholstery and replacement, carpet and sidewall replacement, headliner installation, wood and plastic refinishing, custom interior design, and soundproofing upgrades.

Successful interior shops understand FAA-approved materials (fireproof, smoke-resistant), source aviation-grade materials, provide custom design services, complete quality installations, and work on various aircraft types.

Can specialize in specific aircraft.

Marketing through aircraft owners, brokers, maintenance shops, and FBOs.

Required Skills

  • Upholstery
  • FAA-Approved Materials
  • Aircraft Interior Design
  • Installation Techniques
  • Custom Fabrication
  • Project Management

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High-value refurbishment projects
  • Aging fleet needs interior updates
  • Custom work commands premium
  • Less competition than maintenance
  • Can dramatically improve aircraft value

Cons

  • Need FAA-approved materials knowledge
  • Aircraft downtime affects scheduling
  • Material costs significant
  • Long project timelines
  • Specialized skill requirements

How to Get Started

  1. Learn aircraft upholstery and interior work
  2. Source FAA-approved materials suppliers
  3. Set up workspace for interior projects
  4. Build portfolio of completed interiors
  5. Market to aircraft owners for upgrades
  6. Provide custom design services
  7. Build reputation for quality work

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