If you're in the business of painting aircraft, you already know cutting corners isn't an option. Whether you're working on bush planes or big commercial birds, the stakes are high and the margin for error is small.

And if you're thinking about building or upgrading your aviation paint booth, you're about to make a serious investment, one that can either become the backbone of your operation or a major regret if it's not done right.

Our experts weigh in on some things you need to know before picking out lights and floor coatings.

It All Starts with Airflow
If your booth isn't breathing right, your finish will suffer.

Most operations prefer a downdraft setup because it pulls air from ceiling to floor, clearing overspray quickly. It’s the gold standard—if your layout and budget allow.

A major cost is the exhaust pit. In existing facilities, floor excavation can be difficult. Even in new builds, downdrafts aren't always ideal. The size of aviation hangars makes pits and tunnels complex—especially with metal grating to support aircraft weight.

When downdraft limitations arise, consider the adaptability of semi-downdraft and crossdraft options. These systems let you finish large components without major construction, offering flexibility and reliable throughput for aviation maintenance and repair.

The rule of thumb? You want airflow across the work area at roughly 0.5 metres per second. That's the standard used across Canada and is enough to keep vapours moving, visibility high, and finishes clean.

And don't forget your filters. Multi-stage filtration (ideally with a HEPA layer) keeps the air clean for your painters and the finish.

Watch the Weather (Inside the Booth)
Paint doesn't care how expensive your booth is. It cares about temperature and humidity.

If it's too cold, you'll struggle with dry times. If it's too humid, adhesion suffers. Either way, your finish takes a hit. Investing in solid climate control and using sensors to monitor your conditions can save you rework and help every job roll out immediately.

‍Build It Safe, Build It to Last
Aviation paint booths deal with flammable materials, pressurized systems, and long-hour crews.

Serious business and a serious place to invest your dollars. Canadian code (aligned with NFPA 33) requires non-combustible construction, explosion-proof electrical components, and proper ventilation. If you stick to those three, you're doing it right.

Build it once, build it to code, and it'll serve your shop for decades.

Don't Skimp on the Lights
Proper lighting is key.

High-intensity, colour-corrected LEDs help with colour matching and spotting imperfections before they bake in. A well-lit booth isn't a luxury; it's the difference between a sharp job and one that needs sanding down and starting over.

Maintenance Isn't Optional
Even the best booth won't stay that way without regular upkeep.

Filters clog. Fans strain. Overspray builds up. You're already falling behind if you're not staying ahead of it.

This is where a structured repair and maintenance program, like the one Alberta Booth offers, can help. It keeps your schedule on track, prevents breakdowns, and protects your investment.

If filters tend to fall off your radar, that's especially worth noting. It's a small but vital part; if it fails, you're not painting anything until it's fixed. Alberta Booth can also supply compatible filters when needed, helping you stay ahead of downtime.

Cus. Jobs Take Time, So Plan Ahead
Give yourself time if you're going fully custom — and most aviation setups do.

Standard installs might come together in a couple of months. Custom builds, especially with pit work or structural changes, could take up to six months, from first consultation to final spray test.

Start early. Get the design right. And work with people who know aviation. It'll pay off.

Final Word
Aviation paint booths are serious builds. If you take care of airflow, climate control, safety, lighting, and regular maintenance, your booth will pay you back for years.

Rush it, cut corners, or skip the basics, and you'll be chasing issues long after the paint dries.