Vandana Aircraft Services predicts huge growth for PU-based upholstery in planes

New Delhi – The rapid growth of the Indian domestic airline sector means there is a huge opportunity for PU upholstery, according to Poonam Bhardwaj, global business head at Vandana Aircraft Services. She was speaking at the recent Aircraft Interiors India show in New Delhi.

“The growth potential is huge as more than 1000 aircraft are going to be inducted in various airlines in the next five years, opening a big market opportunity for enhanced aircraft interiors with high-quality polyurethane upholstery,” Bhardwaj said

India now has the world’s third-largest domestic airline market, after the US and China. Commercial carriers currently operate more than 800 planes, according to the country’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation. This is set to expand, as three major Indian carriers have ordered more than 1100 aircraft in the past 18 months: Air India ordered 470 planes, with private carriers Indigo and Akasa Air ordering a further 500 and 150 respectively.

Gurugram-based Vandana specialises in refurbishment and maintenance services. It operates sites in Delhi and Neemrana where it manufactures PU-based seat covers, armrests and headrests, and panel trims. These have applications in both commercial and private aircraft.

“The application of PU is increasing as it is more durable, safe, provides optimal comfort with soft touch, minimises noise and vibrations, is easy to clean and maintain, allows customisation, and is lightweight,” Bhardwaj said.

The advantages of lighter weight are becoming more important. Operational costs are increasing, and commercial airlines are placing more focus on efficiency as a result. The lighter weight of PU-based upholstery contributes to fuel efficiency, thus reducing the cost of running flights.

“We always stock 15,000-20,000m of PU in a variety of colours and textures to compliment diverse aircraft interior designs,” she said. The Neemrana plant was built to cater to the growing demand from the Indian aviation sector.

The company is also working on a military-grade PU product for the country’s armed forces. Testing parameters are very different in this sector, adding to the challenge.

Bhardwaj said that the company is open to collaboration with global players in the application of PU in the aviation sector. “We started conscious marketing overseas only a couple of years ago,” she said. “We have supplied PU-based upholstery to countries like UAE, Kenya, UK, US and Nepal.”