Enhanced-design windshields and aft fixed cockpit windows PPG produces for the Airbus A320 Family of jetliners are demonstrating outstanding field service and reliability for airlines, accumulating significant flight-hours over the earlier versions. PPG has delivered to Airbus and operators about 4,000 new-design windshields, which began entering into service in the second quarter 2010, and nearly 2,000 enhanced aft fixed cockpit windows, which began entering into service in the fourth quarter 2012.
PPG worked with Airbus and aircraft operators to monitor the field performance to develop the enhanced designs, which include advanced technology to improve reliability, reduce maintenance downtime, and lessen the environmental impact of aging and removed transparencies, according to Stirling Macfarlane, PPG segment manager for original-equipment aircraft transparencies.
"With the design enhancements the PPG team developed, these transparencies are providing outstanding service for our global customers," Macfarlane said. "Current reliability estimates indicate market-leading performance by a wide margin."
The PPG flight-deck windows can be used for original-equipment and replacement applications on Airbus A318, A319, A320 and A321 single-aisle airplanes, including the recently launched NEO (new-engine option) Family.
PPG sliding cockpit windows for the A320 Family with a similar design to the aft fixed windows will enter into service later this year.
PPG manufactures the Airbus windshields and cockpit side windows at its Huntsville, Alabama, facility. Since 1990, PPG has manufactured and delivered more than 30,000 flight-deck windows for production and aftermarket for A320 Family aircraft.
