Acro Aircraft Seating has passed the certification process for the use of composite seatback components manufactured by Tiderock Composites. The components have been tested in accordance with FAR 25.853 and CS 25.853, the mandatory flammability standards governing cabin interior components on all commercial transport aircraft.
The certification covers the latest generation of seatback assemblies produced at Tiderock’s facility in Coningsby, UK, intended for use in applications including Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft.
FAR 25.853 (administered by the US FAA) and its European equivalent CS 25.853 (administered by EASA) establish global standards for the fire safety of materials aboard commercial aircraft cabin interiors. For seatback components, certification requires demonstrating self-extinguishing properties, strict limits on burn length and flame propagation, and resistance to flaming drip.
These tests are designed to ensure that passengers have the maximum possible time to evacuate the cabin in the event of a fire. The two standards are substantively identical and are recognised across all major aviation regulatory authorities worldwide.
“This certification is a defining milestone for Tiderock Composites and a testament to the depth of our partnership with Acro Aircraft Seating,” said Will Waldrop, CEO of Tiderock. “Our seatbacks have flown on Boeing and Airbus aircraft for decades. Achieving this qualification on our latest components ensures we are positioned to continue serving the aviation industry for decades to come.”
According to Tiderock Composites, this flammability certification establishes a foundation for the company to expanded its activities in the aircraft interiors sector. The company’s management intends to leverage this certification as a platform credential when negotiating with additional Tier 1 aerospace primes and OEM supply chains.
Tiderock management view the Acro certification as an anchor reference point in its ongoing commercial development efforts within the aviation sector.
