Thermoplastic rudder and elevator in G650 Empennage

GKN Aerospace manufactures the complete Gulfstream G650 empennage with a thermoplastic rudder and elevator, reducing the weight of the components by 25% compared to traditional materials.

Components are joined into an inseparable unit by induction welding, eliminating costly drilling and riveting work. The use of thermoplastic composites in primary structures of the aircraft is a trend that unlocks significant improvements in terms of aircraft weight, fuel consumption, total life cycle costs, maintainability and recyclability.