Wondering about the definition of green aircraft? Keep reading to learn the meaning of green aircraft, see some examples, and get a better understanding of this travel glossary term!
What is a Green Aircraft?
Green aircraft, in airline parlance, is a term referring to a plane fresh from the factory, often one which has an interior that is still incomplete. The term comes from the fact that most green aircraft are delivered with a coat of oxidized paint, usually green; this is prior to the final painting and the airline’s livery being applied.
However, lately, especially with the rise of eco-conscious tourism, green aircraft can also refer to the latest airplanes utilizing “green” technology, such as alternative fuel sources, lightweight materials, and other measures to fight climate change and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels.
More on Green Airplanes
Before being painted with the final coat and delivered to the airlines which purchased each plane, an aircraft is coated in a primer consisting of either zinc phosphate or zinc chromate to fight corrosion. This primer coat is a light green color that is semi-translucent, which is why we call factory airplanes “green aircraft.”
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