17 Aircraft Painter Interview Questions and Answers

An aircraft painter is responsible for the cosmetic and protective painting of an aircraft. The job requires the ability to work in a variety of positions, including on ladders and scaffolding, and in cramped spaces. Aircraft painters must be able to follow complex written and verbal instructions and have a keen eye for detail.

Aircraft painters typically work in hangars or paint booths and use a variety of power tools and painting equipment. The job can be physically demanding, and aircraft painters must take precautions to protect themselves from fumes and other hazards.

If you’re interested in becoming an aircraft painter, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require completion of an apprenticeship or vocational training program. Most aircraft painters learn on the job, working under the supervision of experienced painters.

Are you familiar with the different types of paint used in aircraft painting?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with different types of paint. Use your answer to highlight the specific paints you’ve used in previous roles and explain how they differ from one another.

Example: “I’ve worked with a few different types of aircraft paint, including epoxy, urethane and polyurethane. Epoxy is a two-part system that requires mixing before application. Urethane is also a two-part system but it’s more durable than epoxy. Polyurethane is a single-part system that I use when I need a high-quality finish on an aircraft. It provides excellent coverage and durability.”

What are the different methods used to paint aircrafts?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the different methods used in aircraft painting. You can list several methods and explain how they work, including what tools you would use for each method.

Example: “There are three main methods I’ve used when painting aircrafts. The first is spray painting, which uses a paint gun that sprays paint onto the surface. This is my preferred method because it’s fast and efficient. However, it requires a lot of ventilation due to the fumes produced by the paint. The second method is airbrushing, which uses compressed air to blow paint through a needle-like tube. It’s more time consuming than spray painting but produces better results. Finally, there’s hand brushing, which is the most laborious method as it involves applying paint with brushes.”

How would you prevent paint from chipping or flaking off of an aircraft’s exterior?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the industry and how you can contribute to a team. Your answer should include steps you would take to ensure paint stays on aircrafts for as long as possible, including proper preparation before painting and using high-quality paints that are resistant to chipping or flaking.

Example: “I always make sure to prepare the surface properly before I begin painting. This includes cleaning the exterior with solvents and sanding it down so there’s no loose paint or dirt. Then, I apply primer to the entire surface to create a smooth base for the paint. Finally, I use top-quality paints that are designed to resist chipping or flaking off. These measures help me achieve a quality finish that lasts for years.”

What is your process for cleaning and maintaining paint equipment after a painting job?

This question can help interviewers understand your attention to detail and how you keep yourself safe while working. Your answer should include a step-by-step process for cleaning equipment, including the tools you use and any safety precautions you take.

Example: “I always clean my paintbrushes immediately after using them so they don’t dry out or get damaged. I also make sure to clean all of my other painting equipment before leaving a job site. For example, if I’m using an extension ladder, I’ll lower it and remove the paint tray from the top before storing it in a secure location. This helps me avoid damaging the ladder when transporting it back to the shop.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to work with a difficult customer and how you resolved the issue.

Employers ask this question to see how you handle conflict and resolve issues. This is an important skill for aircraft painters because they often work with customers who are unhappy about the paint job or want a refund. When answering, make sure to focus on your problem-solving skills and ability to diffuse tense situations.

Example: “When I was working as an aircraft painter at my previous company, one of my clients called me upset that we missed a spot when painting their plane. They were demanding a discount on our services, but I remained calm and explained that it was impossible to miss a spot on a plane unless there was damage to the surface. The client agreed after I showed them pictures of the plane before and after painting.”

If you could paint any aircraft in the world, which would you choose and why?

This question is a great way to see how passionate you are about your work. It also shows the interviewer that you have an interest in aircraft painting and what it takes to be successful at it. When answering this question, try to pick an aircraft that you would enjoy painting or one that has special meaning for you.

Example: “If I could paint any aircraft in the world, I would choose the B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber because of its unique design. The black color makes it look sleek and fast, which is something I strive for when painting my own projects. I think I could do some really cool things with the patterns on this plane.”

What would you do if you noticed another aircraft painter doing something unsafe?

Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to keep yourself and your coworkers safe. They want to see that you have the ability to speak up when necessary, so they can ensure their employees are all working safely together. In your answer, try to show that you understand the importance of safety in an aircraft painting job.

Example: “I would first approach them privately and let them know what I saw. If it was something small, like a ladder being left out, I might just remind them about our company policy on ladders. However, if it was something more serious, like someone not wearing proper fall protection equipment, I would report it to my supervisor immediately. Reporting unsafe behavior is always the best way to handle it.”

How well can you see without your protective goggles or a paint mask?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your ability to perform tasks that require precision and accuracy. Your answer should show that you can see well enough to complete these tasks without compromising safety or quality.

Example: “I am able to see clearly even when I take off my goggles or paint mask, but I always make sure to check my work before removing them. This ensures that I don’t miss any spots or errors in my painting. If I notice something after taking off my protective gear, I put it back on so I can fix the issue.”

Do you have experience using paint spray guns?

This question can help interviewers determine your experience with the tools you’ll use on the job. If you have no experience using paint spray guns, consider practicing before your interview to show that you’re willing to learn new skills.

Example: “I’ve used a paint spray gun in my previous role as an aircraft painter. I was responsible for spraying all of the exterior surfaces of the planes we worked on and had to be sure to cover every surface evenly. I also needed to make sure I didn’t miss any spots while painting so I could avoid having to repaint later. This helped me develop my attention to detail and focus on getting the job done right.”

When applying paint to an aircraft’s exterior, what is the correct distance to maintain?

This question is a test of your knowledge about the safety regulations that apply to aircraft painting. It also shows how well you can follow instructions and adhere to company policies. When answering this question, make sure to mention the exact distance in feet or meters as required by the FAA.

Example: “The correct distance to maintain when applying paint to an aircraft’s exterior is 20 feet. This is according to Federal Aviation Administration regulations. If I am working with another painter on the same plane, we should maintain a distance of at least 10 feet from each other.”

We want our aircraft painters to be able to work quickly. How many square feet of an aircraft can you paint in an hour?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working quickly and efficiently. Use your answer to highlight your speed, attention to detail and ability to work independently.

Example: “In my last position as an aircraft painter, I was able to paint a total of 1,200 square feet per day. This included prepping the surface, painting the entire plane and cleaning up after myself. I am very efficient at what I do, so I’m confident that I could meet or exceed this number in your company.”

Describe your process for preparing an aircraft for painting.

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you have the skills and knowledge necessary for this role. Use examples from your experience to describe how you would complete each step of the process, including what tools you use and how you ensure quality work.

Example: “I start by cleaning the aircraft with a power washer to remove any dirt or debris. Then I cover all areas of the plane that I don’t want painted with masking tape so they’re ready for priming. After that, I spray paint the entire surface with primer to seal it and protect it from the elements. Next, I remove the masking tape and apply two coats of paint to the aircraft.”

What makes aircraft paint different from other types of paint?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you have a strong understanding of the technical aspects of aircraft painting. Use examples from your experience to explain how paint for aircraft differs from other types of paint and why it’s important to use specialized paints in this role.

Example: “Aircraft paint is different because it has to be highly durable, resistant to corrosion and able to withstand high temperatures. It also needs to be easy to apply and remove so I can get into tight spaces without damaging the surface of the plane. The paint I used at my last job was specifically designed for these purposes.”

Which aircraft painting techniques do you prefer and why?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience and preferences. They may also want to know if you have any specialties or unique skills that could benefit their company. When answering this question, try to describe the techniques you are most comfortable with and why they appeal to you.

Example: “I prefer spray painting because it’s fast and efficient. I’ve been using a paint gun for years now, so I’m very comfortable with it. It allows me to get into tight spaces and apply even coats of paint quickly. However, I am also familiar with brush painting, which is useful when working on large planes. I find that I can use both methods interchangeably depending on the job.”

What do you think is the most important skill for an aircraft painter to have?

This question can help an interviewer determine what skills you value most in your work. When answering this question, it can be helpful to identify a skill that is directly related to the job and how you use it on a daily basis.

Example: “I think one of the most important skills for an aircraft painter to have is attention to detail. Painting large planes requires precision, so I make sure to always double-check my work before moving onto the next step. Another important skill is communication. Painting often takes place in loud environments with many people working at once, so it’s important to clearly communicate any questions or concerns.”

How often should aircrafts be repainted?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of the industry and how often you would expect to paint aircrafts. Use examples from your experience or research to explain when repainting is necessary and what factors influence this decision.

Example: “In my experience, I have found that aircrafts should be repainted every five years. This is because the exterior of an aircraft is constantly exposed to UV rays, which break down the paint over time. Repainting at least once a decade helps ensure the safety of passengers and crew members by ensuring the aircraft’s exterior remains intact. However, if there are any signs of damage, such as chipping or peeling, then it may need to be repainted sooner.”

There is a paint shortage and you are almost finished painting an aircraft, but the company won’t let you start another until the first job is completed. How would you handle this?

This question is designed to test your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. Your answer should show that you can prioritize tasks, manage time effectively and communicate with others.

Example: “I would first ask my supervisor if there was any way I could finish the job without starting another one. If not, then I would make sure all of my coworkers were aware of the situation so they could help me get through it as quickly as possible. I would also try to find ways to speed up the process, such as using a paint sprayer instead of brushes or rollers.”