In aviation, corrosion remains an enduring risk to aircraft integrity, often intensified by exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as coastal humidity and de-icing chemicals. The challenge is particularly acute during winter months when salts used to maintain runway safety can accelerate metal degradation on aircraft exteriors. To combat this, airlines are increasingly deploying robotic systems to automate and streamline the cleaning process, minimizing the potential for corrosion-related deterioration.
Nordic Dino Robotics AB, a subsidiary of the Avia Solutions Group, builds automated aircraft exterior cleaning robots. These self-contained machines are engineered for various aircraft sizes, including narrow-body, wide-body, and extra-wide-body types. Utilizing a combination of rotating brushes and high-pressure water jets, the robots efficiently remove residues such as grease, oil, and soot from the aircraft’s surface. The process is conducted via remote control, enabling a single technician to operate the system and reducing reliance on manual labor.
The introduction of robotic washers has led to a notable reduction in cleaning durations. For example, the washing time for wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 has been cut from approximately six hours to two. Narrow-body aircraft, including the Boeing 737, now require just one hour for cleaning, down from three. This increase in efficiency translates into less downtime for aircraft and a reduction in operational costs.
Environmental considerations are also influencing the shift toward automation. Conventional manual washing can consume over 11,000 liters of water per session. In contrast, automated systems have demonstrated an ability to reduce water usage by more than 80 percent, using roughly 1,800 liters per wash. This decrease supports broader sustainability targets within the aviation industry.
Safety is another contributing factor in the adoption of robotic technology. Traditional cleaning procedures often involve work at heights, creating risks for ground crews. Robotic washers carry out their tasks from the ground, eliminating the need for elevated access and improving occupational safety standards.
The integration of robotic cleaning solutions not only addresses the direct threats posed by corrosion but also contributes to a broader strategy of operational resilience, cost efficiency, and environmental responsibility. As airlines continue to face pressure to enhance safety while managing resources efficiently, robotic systems are becoming a central feature of modern aircraft maintenance regimes.
