Piper PA-28-161 Interior Refurbishment – Modernising a Kiwi Classic
Project Summary
This project involved the complete interior refurbishment of a Piper PA-28-161 aircraft for a client in New Zealand. The scope included seat restoration, new sidewalls, floor coverings, glare shield recovery, door draught excluder, and refinishing of plastic trim components. The result is a clean, modern, and professional cabin that brings this aircraft firmly into the present day.
Gallery: Materials and Features
Seating:
The aircraft’s seats were stripped down to their frames, which were then repainted for a fresh foundation. New diaphragms, foam cushions, and dress covers were installed. The seat covers were crafted in Lead Grey leather (ADI-1111) and stitched with a subtle contrast in Samt Beige thread (0267), combining durability with elegance.
Sidewalls:
The upper sidewalls were upholstered in Lead Grey microfibre leather (ADI-1116), mirroring the seat material in a slightly textured finish. A distinctive double-stitch detail in Samt Beige thread runs horizontally across each panel. The armrests were also refinished with new pads, and the lower sidewalls were completed in Zimmer-colored carpet, providing a tasteful contrast.
Floor Coverings:
The floor was fitted with Zimmer carpet, laid over an underlay for sound dampening and comfort. Heel mats were integrated in the front footwells to prevent wear in high-traffic areas. The aft bulkhead panel at the rear of the cabin was repaired and recovered in white vinyl, brightening the space and completing the cabin’s aesthetic.
Additional Details:
-
A new draught excluder around the cabin door was fabricated using the same white vinyl as the aft bulkhead, ensuring visual continuity.
-
The glare shield eyebrow was re-covered in UV-stabilized black vinyl (ADI-1092) for long-term durability under sunlight exposure.
-
The instrument panel cowl was rewrapped in a tactile black fabric, providing a refined finish and reducing glare in the cockpit.
A Stylish Transformation by Generation Global
This Piper PA-28-161 project highlights Generation Global’s attention to detail and premium craftsmanship, offering aircraft owners practical upgrades wrapped in sleek, modern materials. From precise stitching to thoughtfully matched color schemes, the final product not only looks smart—it’s built to last.
