Vintage Leather Seat Refurbishment – Cessna 185 Skywagon
For this custom project, Generation Global was entrusted with the seat and armrest refurbishment of a Cessna 185 Skywagon. The client shipped their seating components to our New Zealand facility, where our team performed a complete teardown and rebuild—delivering a cabin interior that beautifully captures the vintage charm of this classic aircraft.
A Complete Seat Overhaul
The refurbishment began with stripping each seat frame back to bare metal, followed by a black respray for a clean, timeless look. We installed new diaphragms for enhanced support and comfort before moving on to custom-fit foam cushions, designed for long-lasting performance.
Classic Design with Distressed Leather
The star of this project was the material selection. We used full-grain, waxed aniline leather, known for its natural, distressed appearance and supple feel. This vintage-style leather was chosen as the primary material for both the seat covers and armrest wraps, adding a level of sophistication and authenticity that perfectly suits a legacy aircraft like the C185.
Design Features & Detailing
The two front seat covers were elegantly finished with white piping along the outer edges of the seat faces and around the inserts. These inserts were fluted, adding texture and reinforcing the retro aesthetic.
The rear bench seat and auxiliary second-row single seats also featured fluting in the base and back inserts, with piping limited to the outer borders and the leading edge of the armrests—striking a balance between design continuity and subtlety.
To personalise the seats further, we embroidered the Cessna 185 logo in white onto the upper backrests of the two front seats—an eye-catching final detail that truly sets this interior apart.
Craftsmanship That Honors Heritage
With careful attention to vintage detailing, premium aviation-grade materials, and custom embroidery, this Cessna 185 interior project reflects the passion of its owner and the expertise of our team. It's a testament to how modern craftsmanship can enhance and preserve the character of a heritage aircraft.
