FAQ

Aircraft Detailing FAQ

Your Questions, Answered

Everything you need to know about JetCraft's mobile aircraft detailing across DC, Maryland and Virginia — from a quick rinseless wash to bright work, paint polishing and ceramic coating.

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General

What aircraft do you detail?

Everything from single-engine pistons and light twins to turboprops, business jets and heavy jets — owner-flown, flight school, charter and managed aircraft.

Which airports do you service?

We cover the DMV, including BWI, IAD, DCA, Manassas (HEF), Leesburg (JYO), Gaithersburg (GAI), Frederick (FDK) and Stafford (RMN). Other Mid-Atlantic airfields may be available on request, depending on access and scheduling.

Do you come to my aircraft?

Yes. We're fully mobile and work at your hangar, tie-down or FBO — no repositioning flights or extra downtime.

Do you need water or a wash rack?

No. Our exterior service is a rinseless, ramp-safe wash that lifts bugs, exhaust soot and grime without runoff.

Are your products safe for aircraft surfaces?

Yes. We use aviation-specific products only — safe for paint, bare metal, acrylic windows, de-ice boots, leather and avionics. Sensitive areas like pitot tubes, static ports, sensors and seals are protected during machine work. Our team is trained in aircraft detailing, not just cars.

Are you insured?

Yes. We can provide a certificate of insurance to owners, FBOs and airport management on request.

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Booking & Pricing

How much does a detail cost?

It depends on aircraft size, condition and the services you choose. Send us your aircraft type and airport and we'll provide a clear, written quote — no surprises.

How quickly can you respond?

We're on call 7 days a week and typically respond within two hours, including last-minute requests before a departure.

How long does a service take?

A rinseless wash on a single-engine piston usually takes a few hours. Polishing and ceramic coating are more involved and can take one to several days depending on aircraft size and paint condition. We'll confirm timing with your quote.

How often should my aircraft be detailed?

For regularly flown aircraft, an exterior wash every 2–4 weeks keeps contaminants from bonding to the paint. Polishing is typically annual or as needed, and a ceramic coating makes routine cleaning faster.

Do you offer flight school or fleet programs?

Yes. We offer fleet pricing and recurring schedules built around your flight operations.

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Bright Work

What is bright work?

The unpainted, polished metal on your aircraft — leading edges, spinners, engine inlet lips, and chrome or polished aluminum trim. Bright work polishing removes oxidation and restores a mirror finish.

Why does bare metal turn dull?

Aluminum oxidizes when exposed to air, moisture and pollutants, leaving a hazy gray film. Left alone, it can lead to pitting and corrosion. Polishing removes it, and a sealant slows it from coming back.

Is there anything you won't polish?

We don't machine-polish propeller blades or any surface restricted by the manufacturer or your maintenance provider. If we find corrosion or damage that needs a mechanic, we'll flag it rather than polish over it.

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Paint Polishing

What's the difference between a one-step and two-step polish?

One-Step: a single polishing stage that removes light oxidation, haze and fine swirls and restores gloss. Best for paint in fair-to-good condition or annual upkeep.

Two-Step: a cutting stage for heavier oxidation, fading and deeper swirls, followed by a refining stage for maximum clarity. Best for tired or neglected paint, or before a ceramic coating.

Which one does my aircraft need?

We inspect the paint and test a small section first, then recommend the right level.

Will polishing damage my paint?

Not when done correctly. We use the least aggressive method that gets results and work carefully around edges, stripes, decals and placards.

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Ceramic Coating

What does a ceramic coating do?

It bonds to your paint and cures into a hard, glossy protective layer that outlasts wax and sealants — helping guard against UV fading, oxidation, bug residue and exhaust staining, and making every wash faster.

How long does it last?

Typically one to several years, depending on the coating, whether the aircraft is hangared, and how it's maintained.

Do I need a polish first?

Yes. A coating locks in the paint's current condition, so we always polish and prep the surface before applying it.

Is there downtime after coating?

The coating needs time to cure. Keep the aircraft dry — ideally hangared — for at least 24 hours, and avoid washing for about a week. We'll leave you simple care instructions.

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Interior

What's the difference between Level 1 and Level 2?

Level 1 — Cabin Refresh: vacuum, surface wipe-down, interior windows and freshening. Best for regular upkeep and quick turnarounds.

Level 2 — Deep Clean & Disinfect: everything in Level 1 plus steam cleaning, carpet extraction, leather conditioning, odor elimination and lav/galley sanitation.

Is it safe to clean around avionics?

Yes. We never spray directly on screens or instruments — products go on a microfiber first, and only display-safe cleaners are used.

Still Have a Question?

We're on call 7 days a week. Tell us about your aircraft and we'll get back to you fast.

📞 Call (240) 621-0595 Book Now