What type of fabric is currently considered the standard for aircraft covering in the United States?

Polyester fabric is currently regarded as the standard for aircraft covering in the United States due to its excellent properties suitable for aviation applications. One of the key benefits of polyester is its high resistance to UV degradation and moisture, which makes it highly durable and long-lasting under various environmental conditions. This resistance contributes to the longevity of the fabric when exposed to sunlight and weather elements, which is crucial for aircraft that operate in outdoor environments.

Additionally, polyester offers good dimensional stability and retains strength while remaining lightweight, making it an ideal choice for aircraft applications where weight is a critical factor. The fabric is often coated with a layer that adds further protection, enhancing its ability to withstand wear and tear.

These characteristics have made polyester a preferred option for aircraft fabric covering over alternatives such as silk, nylon, or cotton, which may not provide the same level of durability and performance in aviation contexts. Cotton, while historically used, does not have the same resistance to moisture and UV light, and nylon has limitations in terms of dimensional stability under varying temperatures.