Concorde seat restoration highlights longevity

09/10/2024
Concorde seat restoration highlights longevity
The Leather Repair Company has started restoring the seats of the iconic G-BOAC Concorde, a key exhibit at Manchester Airport’s Runway Visitor Park, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. Richard and Carolynne Hutchins, owners of the Hull-based business, are the first in Europe to be accredited by the international Aviation Detailing Association.

The opportunity arose when the couple visited the park during a delayed flight and offered their services after touring the aircraft. They are now restoring the Concorde seats in batches, aiming to maintain the original look while improving their condition.

The Runway Visitor Park is a popular attraction for aviation enthusiasts where Concorde’s enduring popularity attracts hundreds of visitors attending tours and events each weekend. The restoration focuses on the front cabin, where high usage has caused wear over time.

Founded in 2007, the Leather Repair Company began in the Hutchins’ garden shed. The couple is now expanding their expertise into the light aircraft sector, following Richard’s recent aviation detailing training in Texas. Their accreditation sets them apart in the specialised field of aircraft restoration.