To properly clean an aircraft and to minimize waste, consult the manufacturer’s instructions and plan
the work ahead of time. Washing an aircraft should be accomplished in a designated area that is
sloped, covered and bermed to facilitate wastewater collection and to prevent stormwater runoff.
Wastewater can not be allowed to spill onto unprotected areas where it could contaminate the
ground water. Optimally, the wash area should have a sump that can collect the cleaner and
wastewater prior to being filtered and reused. The washing area should also have a permitted
connection to a water treatment facility or a suitable retention pond. Other alternatives for aircraft
cleaning are utilizing offsite commercial washing and steam cleaning facilities or a high pressure wash
system, such as a hydroblast that uses a lower volume of water compared to conventional washing.