Proper glass cockpit LCD cleaning and maintenance is crucial for safety and system longevity. Using the wrong products or techniques can damage the screen’s sensitive anti-glare and anti-reflective coatings, leading to a hazy display and compromised visibility. The best practices involve using the correct cleaning materials and following a specific, gentle procedure.
THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF CLEANING
Aviation manufacturers like Garmin and Dynon provide specific guidelines for cleaning their products, and these should always be your primary source of information. The following are general best practices for cleaning and disinfecting glass cockpit displays:
- DO use a clean, soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. These cloths are designed to trap dust and debris without scratching the screen’s delicate surface.
- DO use a cleaner that is specified as safe for anti-reflective coatings. Many manufacturers recommend a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water.
- DO apply the cleaning solution to the cloth, not directly to the screen. Spraying liquid directly onto the display can cause it to seep into the unit and damage the internal electronics.
- DO turn off the display before cleaning. This prevents accidental inputs on touchscreen units and makes it easier to see streaks and smudges.
- DON’T use cleaners that contain ammonia, bleach, or other harsh chemicals. These agents will permanently damage the anti-glare and anti-reflective coatings on the display.
- DON’T use paper towels, tissues, or abrasive cloths. These materials can leave tiny scratches on the screen’s surface.
- DON’T scrub or apply excessive pressure. Use a gentle, wiping motion to remove dust and fingerprints.
A STEP-BY-STEP CLEANING PROCESS
Following a simple, two-step process can keep your glass cockpit displays clean and free of damage.
- Dry Cleaning: Begin by gently wiping the screen with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any loose dust and debris. This step is essential to prevent scratching the screen with abrasive particles during the wet cleaning phase. For a touchscreen, some avionics systems have a “clean screen” mode that temporarily disables touch functionality, preventing accidental inputs.
- Wet Cleaning: For stubborn smudges, fingerprints, or disinfecting, lightly dampen the microfiber cloth with an approved cleaning solution, such as a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution. Gently wipe the display from top to bottom or in a straight, linear motion. Avoid cleaning in a circular pattern, as this can cause swirls and glare. Allow the screen to air dry completely before turning the unit back on.
THE AERO CENTER’S COMMITMENT TO AVIONICS CARE
Proper maintenance of your aircraft’s glass cockpit displays extends beyond simple cleaning. A pilot’s consistency in following these simple rules prevents damage and ensures the long-term reliability of a critical flight system. Our technicians are experts in all aspects of avionics maintenance, from diagnosing complex hardware failures to providing the social proof of a job done right.
As the only 24/7 maintenance center in California, Arizona, and Nevada, we understand the importance of keeping your aircraft in top condition and reducing your downtime. Whether it’s a routine cleaning question or a complex avionics issue, you can count on The Aero Center to provide authoritative, professional advice and service.
Footnotes:
- https://www.garmin.com/en-US/blog/aviation/caring-for-your-avionics/
- https://www.dynonavionics.com/cleaning-and-disinfecting.php
- https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/media/19_phak_ch17.pdf
- https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2021/february/pilot/efficiency-desinfecting-airplane
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.