Behind the spotless seats and polished tray tables of an aircraft cabin lies a lesser-known story of mounting challenges in maintaining hygiene, safety, and material integrity. Rajan Pillay, Area Development Director, Color Glo International, who works closely with aviation operators across private and commercial sectors, shares his perspective on how the industry can overcome these challenges with science-led, sustainable cleaning solutions.
Aircraft interiors may look clean to the eye, but traditional cleaning methods often fail to neutralise bacteria or prevent long-term material damage. Using the wrong chemicals can even compromise passenger safety, regulatory compliance and the asset value of the aircraft.
— Rajan Pillay
Aircraft interiors endure constant wear, exposure to contaminants, and the risk of unsuitable cleaning practices that can compromise safety and accelerate material degradation. As regulatory demands tighten and sustainability commitments grow, aviation operators are under pressure to move away from conventional cleaning methods and adopt more advanced approaches.
When “Clean” May Not Be Clean Enough
An aircraft cabin may appear pristine, yet routine cleaning often fails to address invisible threats such as bacteria and allergens.
“Aircraft interiors may look clean to the eye, but traditional cleaning methods often fail to neutralise bacteria or prevent long-term material damage,” says Pillay. “Using the wrong chemicals can even compromise passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and the asset value of the aircraft.”
Regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have mandated aviation-specific cleaning processes to safeguard both health and materials. However, many operators still rely on generic cleaning methods designed for less demanding environments, risking non-compliance and unnecessary wear.
Hygiene and Sustainability as Dual Priorities
Maintaining hygiene alone is no longer enough. The aviation sector now faces increasing pressure to meet sustainability targets while reducing operational costs.
“Eco-friendly cleaning in aviation is not merely a passing trend; it is fast becoming a necessity,” explains Pillay. “Innovations such as the ‘apply and vacuum’ method reduce water consumption, while plant-based deodorisers maintain freshness without leaving chemical residues. Clean cabins and greener operations can indeed work together.”
Materials Requiring Specialised Care
Premium materials such as leather and vinyl demand careful handling. Harsh cleaning products or neglect can lead to premature cracking, fading, and costly replacements.
“We treat leather like natural skin,” Pillay says. “Rather than stripping it with aggressive detergents, we use treatments that replenish and protect it. This approach extends the lifespan of materials and avoids unnecessary downtime for repairs or replacements.”
Cleanliness as a Science
With rising passenger expectations and stricter regulations, aviation cleanliness is evolving into a highly specialised discipline rather than a routine task.
“Future practices will involve trained technicians, aviation-grade products, and sustainable methods that protect both passengers and aircraft,” notes Pillay. “Cleanliness in aviation is moving beyond appearances to become an integral part of safety, hygiene, and environmental responsibility.” The next time passengers step into a spotless cabin, they may not see the science and discipline behind it. Aviation cleanliness today represents a shift towards practices that safeguard passenger health, protect material assets, meet regulatory standards, and support the industry’s commitment to sustainability.
