10 August, 2018: Air New Air New Zealand has teamed up with Zenith Tecnica, an additive manufacturer specialising in titanium parts to explore 3D printed metal parts for aircraft and tools.
The flag carrier airline first explored the area of 3D printing in 2016 and has now moved into items like enhanced small parts for IFE screens which save cost and time, as well as working with new partners such as ST Engineering Aerospace on more advanced parts. The airline is also exploring the boundaries of new processes with Auckland University, Victoria University of Wellington and other technology companies. Most recently it has been using a 3D laser scanner for creating parts' designs, tool designs and interior modelling.