5 reasons why most aircraft are painted white

If you’re looking out of the window at most major airports you’ll notice that the majority of the planes waiting at the gates are white, with a small colourful detail or logo. While some may think this a coincidence, there are actually multiple reasons why most airlines choose to go with white over bright colours.

1. It’s cooler

According to Simple Flying, because planes spend a lot of time in the sun, having white paintwork helps reflect the heat from the suns rays. White paint also helps protect some parts of the aircraft while flying above cloud cover which can be damaged by UV radiation.

2. It’s easier to see damage

Small cracks or leaks are easier to see against a white fuselage. This makes the routine inspections more efficient and allow the plane to be easy to spot in a densely covered area or in the water should it go down.

3. It’s lighter

Although a few layers of paint might not seem heavy, it is estimated that it can add between 180kg to 500kg to the plane, depending on the aircraft, according to Simple Flying. White doesn’t require as many layers as colours and so minimises the added weight to the plane.

4. It doesn’t fade

Brightly-coloured paint tends to fade due to sun exposure to and other weather elements while flying. White on the other hand doesn’t fade and discolouration is less noticably, so there is less need to spend on costly re-paints.

5. Easier to sell

Planes are sold between airlines and it’is just easier to replace a small section with the relevant logo rather than stripping and repainting the entire body.

Exceptions to the rule

While white is the common choice, some airlines have outright rejected this palette. South Africa is home to two of the most rebellious airlines, Mango and Kulula, which have both opted for bright colours over the traditional white.