Aircraft Cabin Management
MENU menu

Weighty Questions with Bucher

photo_camera Giving a new meaning to 'green galley'. (Pic: Bucher)

Promoted: Pascal Ragettli, innovation manager of cabin equipment manufacturer Bucher Leichtbau answers questions on how saving weight equates to saving fuel

Achieving minimum weight is critical for aviation. How does Bucher Leichtbau minimise the weight of its galleys and galley equipment? 

Our company understands that there is always a tradeoff between the functionality of the product, the selection of materials and the allowable weight of the final product. Therefore, the company is constantly examining the ‘weight-drivers’ in its products and looking for ways to eliminate them through the use of new materials and design improvements.
To achieve its weight reduction goals, Bucher Leichtbau employs advanced engineering tools and techniques to optimise the weight of its products while maintaining performance standards. In summary, Bucher Leichtbau is a leading provider of aircraft monuments that is dedicated to meeting the demanding requirements of the aviation industry. By constantly seeking to minimise weight through innovation and advanced engineering, Bucher is contributing to a more sustainable future for aviation.

Aluminium is a key part of Bucher galleys today – are you looking at introducing any new materials such as composites?

We recognise the benefits of composites in the aviation industry, incorporating them into its products for years. The company’s extensive experience in composite materials allows it to leverage the unique properties of composites to reduce weight while maintaining safety and performance standards.
While aluminium has its advantages in terms of durability and maintainability, Bucher Leichtbau understands that composites have unique properties that make them suitable for certain applications. For example, composites are ideal for use in decor panels, insulation for chilled compartments, and air ducts, where their lightweight properties and insulating capabilities make them a superior choice.
By incorporating composites into its products, Bucher Leichtbau is helping its customers reduce the weight of their aircraft, which in turn leads to lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions. We understand that a balance must be struck between the use of aluminium and composites, and that both materials have their place in the aviation industry.

Aside from weight, how can Bucher galleys help airlines achieve their sustainability goals?

Bucher Leichtbau recognises the sustainability benefits of aluminium as a material. Not only is it durable and easily maintained, but it is also fully recyclable. After more than 20 years of use, aluminium components can be recycled through a re-melting process that only consumes five per cent of the initial energy used to produce the primary aluminium. This makes it a highly sustainable material choice for aviation, as 75 per cent of the total aluminium ever produced worldwide is still in use.
While composites have their benefits, they cannot match the sustainability benefits of aluminium. Bucher Leichtbau understands the importance of sustainability in aviation and is committed to providing products that meet the industry’s demanding requirements while also being environmentally responsible.

Many companies are looking for broader sustainability programmes from their suppliers to help meet their objectives. Is Bucher involved in any programmes such as recycling, upcycling or offsetting? 

Bucher Leichtbau recognises the importance of sustainability and has been taking action to reduce its environmental impact. The company has different project groups which analyse processes and identify areas for improvement. Bucher is also examining its supply chain. Specifically, the company has set CO2 reduction targets with the Swiss Energy Agency (EnAW). Although Bucher is still in the early stages of the process, the company is committed to making sustainable practices a priority.

With regard to service, can airline customers work with you to create customised galleys?

Almost every airline has its own requirements; in fact nearly every galley is different. When defining the galley, you will be in discussions about ergonomics with product management members, fleet management members and also there will be industrial design aspects to follow. So yes, there is always customer customisation.

What trends are you noticing in the aircraft galley sector? 

The trend towards ever lighter and more reliable products continues. But we are also currently seeing more and more branding elements or welcome features, for example. It starts with simple logos and goes all the way to complex illuminated welcome panels that give passengers a warm welcome as they enter the cabin. As passengers’ needs and preferences become more diverse, airlines are looking for ways to personalise the in-flight experience. Galleys that can be customised to meet specific needs and preferences are becoming increasingly popular.

2023 was Bucher’s 70-year anniversary. The company is family-owned and in the third generation. What can you tell us about the company’s history?

We are proud to celebrate the 70th anniversary of our organisation’s founding. We think this is a valid proof of how careful we have been managing our resources. It all began with the craftsmanship of master tinsmith Heinrich Bucher, and now we have grown into an international aviation supplier of galleys, cabin and rescue equipment, with engineering and production facilities in Switzerland, Everett, USA and Sinn‑Fleisbach, Germany.
Over the years, we have continued to innovate and expand our reach, always staying true to our Swiss roots of precision, quality and on-time performance. As we look to the future, we are excited to build upon our legacy and continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Sign In

Lost your password?