Full-service carrier Vistara has become the first Indian airline to implement ‘Aerowash’ an automated aircraft exterior washing and cleaning solution. Provided by AeroTech Support Services, this mechanised solution will reduce aircraft cleaning times and extend the aircraft's lifespan by guarding against corrosion.
Operated by remote control, Aerowash uses a micro-fibre brush drum for superior surface cleaning and a nearly waterless dry-wash process.
Pankaj Handa, Senior Vice President – Ground Operations, Vistara, said the implementation of Aerowash was yet another step as part of the airline's ongoing efforts towards enhancing efficiencies across various areas of its operations through automation while also constantly looking at improved and more sustainable ways to do business. It has been undertaking a demo/proof of concept of AeroWash for some time now.
Vistara is the first airline in India to sign up for this solution, said Dr Ashwani Khanna, Executive Director, AeroTech Support Services Pvt. Ltd.
A clean aircraft has reduced aerodynamic drag due to the removal of accumulated dirt, dust, grime, etc., which otherwise adds to the aircraft weight, reducing fuel efficiency.
Aircraft detailing (or cleaning) has traditionally relied on manual labour, which can be time-consuming, resource-intensive and prone to human error.
Vistara is now in the process of being integrated into the Air India Group and currently has a fleet of 61 aircraft, including 46 Airbus A320neo, ten Airbus A321, one Boeing 737-800NG, and four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
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