The enhanced-design windshields and aft fixed cockpit windows PPG produces for the Airbus A320 family of jetliners reportedly are demonstrating outstanding field service and reliability, accumulating significant flight hours over the earlier versions. PPG has delivered to Airbus and operators about 4,000 new-design windshields, which began entering service in the second quarter of 2010, as well as nearly 2,000 enhanced aft fixed cockpit windows, which began entering service in the fourth quarter of 2012.

PPG worked with Airbus and aircraft operators to monitor the field performance to develop the enhanced designs, which reportedly include advanced technology to improve reliability, reduce maintenance downtime, lessen the environmental impact of aging, and removed transparencies.

“With the design enhancements the PPG team developed, these transparencies are providing outstanding service for our global customers,” said Stirling Macfarlane, segment manager for original equipment aircraft transparencies. “Current reliability estimates indicate market-leading performance by a wide margin.”

The PPG flight deck windows reportedly can be used for original equipment and replacement applications on Airbus A318, A319, A320 and A321 single-aisle airplanes, including the recently launched NEO (new-engine option) family. PPG sliding cockpit windows for the A320 family, with a similar design to the aft fixed windows, will enter service later this year.

For more information, visit www.ppgaerospace.com or www.airbus.com.