Which of the following is NOT a method of paint remover used in aviation?

• A. Wax type paint remover
• B. Solvent only type
• C. Abrasive paper
• D. Laser-based paint removal

Answer: (D)

Paint removal in aviation is normally done with chemical strippers (solvent-based) or wax-type removers, and with mechanical methods like sanding using abrasive paper. Laser-based paint removal is not a standard practice in aircraft maintenance. The reason is that lasers introduce heat into the aircraft skin and underlying materials, which can cause damage to aluminum, composites, and the bonds between layers. This thermal impact can lead to warping, delamination, or weakening of fasteners and adhesives. Safety, regulatory approvals, and the high cost and complexity of laser equipment and procedures also limit its use. In contrast, solvent-based, wax-based, and abrasive methods are well understood, controllable, and widely applied across various aircraft and paint systems.