Piper PA-38 Tomahawk seating

THE PROJECT >

This project features Generation Global supplying a complete interior upholstery for a PA-38 Piper Tomahawk aircraft‘s enclosed cabin for two. Refurbishing this Tomahawk’s seats involved an entire strip, paint, and re-covering job. The parts used to refurbish this aircraft are available in Generation Global’s online shop.

GALLERY >

The Piper tomahawk seats are functional and straightforward in their design. They can be taken apart and easily reassembled. First, we strip the existing cabin seats back to the frame. Then, the frame is cleaned and painted where it’s plain to see. In this style of seat, the frame is an intentionally visible part of the design. Next, the frame is fitted with the new diaphragm, which is then glued into place. The seat foam comes shaped, and the cover is fitted once the cushion is glued to the diaphragm. 

The seat dress covers in this interior are the Lead Grey (ADI-1111) aviation leather (without any quilting or perforation). The seat covers feature orange decorative stitching on the surrounding seams of the seat back and base. Orange as a feature colour on dark leather is subtle, whereas orange stitching has more contrast on a lighter colour leather. In the centre of the seatback is the embossed leather Piper logo.

THE CLIENT>

The client is a Boeing 787-9 international pilot who runs an aviation training company. The company provides written literature to support students in there study for theory testing. The client has a broad interest aviation with experience in military, general aviation, vintage aircraft and of both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters.