The pilot’s seat deserves attention during an aircraft interior update. While passenger seating often drives design decisions, crew seats are part of the space you use on every flight. Worn upholstery, an uncomfortable surface, or materials that no longer suit your preferences can all prompt a closer look at the cockpit interior.
We offer leather, sheepskin, and textile options for crew seat upholstery. Selecting among them begins with your experience in the seat: what feels right, what has held up well, and what you would like to change.
Start With Feedback From the People Who Fly
If you fly the aircraft yourself, consider how the current upholstery feels throughout a typical trip. If several pilots share the aircraft, gather their observations before making selections.
Be specific about concerns. Is the material showing wear along the edges? Does its texture bother you? Are you satisfied with the seat’s appearance but interested in a different covering? These details help define the request.
Also distinguish upholstery concerns from questions about the seat itself. Describe both during the initial conversation so the proposed work addresses the issues you actually want reviewed.
Compare Leather, Sheepskin, and Textiles
Each upholstery option brings a different look and feel to the cockpit. Leather offers a smooth surface and a tailored appearance. Sheepskin introduces a plush texture, while textiles provide another direction for owners who prefer a fabric finish.
Handle samples when possible instead of relying entirely on photographs. Consider how the surface feels against the clothing you usually wear while flying, and ask about the specific materials available for your aircraft.
There is no need to choose solely on appearance. Your preferences for texture and care should be part of the discussion from the beginning.
Keep the Cockpit Design in View
Crew seating can complement the cabin without repeating every passenger seat detail. Review upholstery colors beside the cockpit’s existing trim, flooring, and surrounding surfaces.
If you are retaining most of the interior, use those finishes to guide your selection. A restrained color can help the updated seats feel at home in the existing space. For a larger refurbishment, include crew seating in the overall materials discussion so it receives the same attention as the passenger cabin.
Know What Care Will Involve
Before approving a material, ask about recommended cleaning products and methods. Make sure anyone who cleans the aircraft has the appropriate care instructions, particularly if the new upholstery differs from the previous covering.
A cockpit refresh should reflect the people who spend time there. Whether you prefer the feel of sheepskin, the appearance of leather, or a textile option, bring your crew seating questions to Arizona Aircraft Interior Designs, Inc.
