General
Do I have to change the weight and balance of my aircraft with the Jet Shades installed?
Depending upon the aircraft, a set of Jet Shades can weigh from 3–8 pounds in your cockpit. Since they are not permanently fixed to the aircraft, it should be considered in the weight and balance calculation before each flight just as any other customer carry on material would be.
When parked on the ramp, how do Jet Shades compare to foil guards?
While foil guards reflect light rays back through the window, the foil guards themselves can heat up (we measured some at 168 degrees F) and they can be placed right up against the windows or windshields. Jet Shades also reflect light rays back through the window but heat up much less. When left in on the ramp on a hot, sunny day, Jet Shades will only be about 20 – 30 degrees hotter than the inside of the cockpit. Unlike foil guards, when properly installed Jet Shades do not touch the window allowing for an air gap between the jet shade and the window. This prevents radiant heat from transferring directly to the window or windshield as foil guards can.
What kind of UVA/UVB protection do Jet Shades offer?
- UV-A is 320 nm to 380 nm - transmits through the atmosphere.
- UV-B is 290 nm to 320 nm - partially absorbed by the atmosphere (ozone layer).
- UV-C is 100 nm to 290 nm - absorbed by the atmosphere (ozone layer).
We test and report according to NFRC standards, these reference ISO9050:2003 as the method for measuring UV transmittance between 300 nm and 380 nm.
The UV transmittance of glazing is the fraction of the incident solar radiation transmitted by the glazing in the 300 nm to 380 nm range (UV-B range from 300 nm to 315 nm and UV-A range from 315 nm to 380 nm.)
Using the NFRC method, our films are 99% or greater, on average, in UV rejection.
Where can I find warranty information for my Jet Shades?
All Jet Shades come with a two-year warranty. A copy of our warranty is shipped with your Jet Shades, or you can view the warranty here.
Material
Are Jet Shades the same window tinting material that is used in car windows?
No, Jet Shades do not use automotive tinting film. The film you see in cars will blister, wrinkle, and separate over time under the effects of temperature changes and humidity when attached to surfaces other than glass. The tinting material used in vehicles absorbs a significant amount of heat which could potentially damage aircraft windows. Jet Shades has a proprietary, engineered process for applying and curing the unique films that cater to the aircraft. Note – Films should never be placed directly on aircraft cockpit windows – especially pressurized cabins. This can cause damage to the aircraft windows including cracking or blowouts of the cockpit windows.
Can I roll up my Jet Shades?
No. While the Jet Shades are somewhat flexible and will bend without breaking or shattering, they can still be damaged from over bending. Jet Shades should not be flexed more than necessary to install and fit your aircraft's windows.
Will prolonged exposure to heat damage my Jet Shade?
Jet Shades were designed to withstand temperatures reaching 150 degrees Fahrenheit. When Aircraft are parked on the ramp under the exposure of the sun and heat, outside temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit could cause temperatures inside the aircraft to reach over the 150-degree mark. We always recommend removing Jet Shades from the windows when parked outside and the temperature could exceed 90*F.
Will Condensation form on the Jet Shades?
In some conditions (usually at flight levels for longer periods of time) you may see condensation or frost develop on the Jet Shade. This is perfectly normal and will not damage the Jet Shade. If condensation or frost does appear on the Shade, we recommend you remove the panel from the window or windshield and set it aside. The condensation or frost should quickly dissipate.
DO NOT attempt to remove your Jet Shades in flight unless the autopilot is verified as on and functioning or a qualified crewmember has control of the aircraft.
How long will my Jet Shades last?
Both original Jet Shades and Generation Two Professional Series Jet Shades were designed using technology estimated to provide 5 years of service when used and maintained in accordance with our instructions. Jet Shades come with a two-year warranty.
Generation Two Jet Shades: While the Gen 2 Jet Shades are flexible and will bend without breaking or shattering, they can still be creased if folded or rolled up. Therefore Gen 2 Jet Shades should not be folded or rolled up into a circle smaller than 12” in diameter.
Original Jet Shades: While the Jet Shades are somewhat flexible and will bend without breaking or shattering, they can still be damaged from overbending. Jet Shades should not be flexed more than necessary to install and fit your aircraft's windows. Flexing or bending past 30 degrees, not removing them in heat conditions, and exposure to high humidity, all reduce the life of the product. We recommend you follow the instructions sheet provided for conditions requiring removal as well as storage to prolong the life of your Jet Shades.
Can the Jet Shade crack or shatter?
Jet Shades are made from Optical Quality Polycarbonate which provides high clarity and is also highly resistant to breakage. It may become deformed if overheated or bent with significant force.
How long will Ultra-Thins last?
Ultra-Thins are very durable. They are engineered to last at least 5 years. Folding them or rolling them up may shorten the product life.
Installation & Fit
I have a Rail that my visor slides on around my side windows and front windshield. Will the Jet Shades work with this configuration?
Yes, the Jet Shade should be able to slide behind the rail and up against the window. We have tested this on Eclipse, Citations, King Air, and other aircraft. If you have a non-standard rail system that interferes with the Jet Shades, please let us know and we’ll help find a solution.
What should I do if I am having trouble fitting my Jet Shade into my window?
If you believe the Jet Shade just won’t fit in your particular aircraft due to the shape or size of the interior trim around the window, do not force it. You can return the Jet Shade undamaged in its original packaging for a refund.
How do Jet Shades attach to the window?
Jet Shades are friction fit, simply press into place without attaching any screws or fasteners. Our patented design allows the shade to grip through the design of the shade and a foam seal. The Jet Shade is secured to the interior trim of the window and not the window itself. In some applications, Jet Shades may provide hook and loop material or small plastic brackets to help secure the shades in place.
Does the Jet Shade touch the aircraft window?
No – Our securing mechanism also prevents the Jet Shade from touching the aircraft window.
How can I tell if Jet Shades will fit my aircraft?
Jet Shades can be made to fit most aircraft cockpit windows If you don’t see your aircraft on our site, please contact us to inquire about your aircraft. Most likely we can custom make one for your aircraft.
I see gaps in my Jet Shades fit. is this correct?
Jet Shades are designed to allow airflow between the Jet Shade and the aircraft window. This is important, especially in pressurized cabins. Therefore you may see small gaps when installing the Jet Shade which is normal. These gaps usually occur in the lower front of the Jet Shade as well as the upper and lower rear of the Jet Shade. (See images below)
The condition of the aircraft trim, as well as replacement of the original aircraft trim, and how each aircraft trim was originally installed can affect the fit of the Jet Shade. A good test for the Jet Shade is that it will stay in even in moderate turbulence.
Ultra-Thins
How do I clean my Ultra-Thins?
Ultra-Thins have a coating system that is applied to the surface of each panel that faces outward. For that reason, Ultra-Thins have both left and right orientations in the cockpit windows. To ensure the integrity of your Ultra-Thins, it is imperative that they be cleaned properly and carefully to avoid damage.
For a light cleaning (such as removing fingerprints), simply wipe with a clean, microfiber towel. To remove heavier buildup, use approximately 1 tablespoon of baby shampoo per half gallon of water and dampen the microfiber towel with the cleaning solution. You can place the Ultra-thin briefly under running water then blot with a paper towel of microfiber cloth. It is not recommended to submerge or soak the Ultra-thins.
How long will Ultra-Thins last?
Ultra-Thins are very durable. They are engineered to last at least 5 years. Folding them or rolling them up may shorten the product life.
Can I use foil guards with Ultra-Thins?
The Ultra-Thins block heat from entering the aircraft while parked, therefore you can leave them in while parked and eliminate the need for foil guards. While Ultra-Thins have been tested to withstand temperatures up to 200° F, placing foil guards behind them will add extra heat to the Ultra-Thins and shorten the product life. Therefore, we do not recommend placing foil guards behind the Ultra-Thins.
I have factory-tinted cabin and skylight windows in my Cirrus. Do I still need Ultra-Thins?
The short answer is Yes! Here's why: the factory-installed limo tint package blocks mostly light - not heat. When you add our Ultra-Thins premium, 76% of the heat BTU’s coming in from the tinted windows will be blocked, making for cooler, more comfortable trips. And, passengers can still enjoy the amazing views with the added peace of mind because Ultra-Thins also block 99.9% of harmful UV radiation — a must when traveling with light-sensitive passengers, children or pets.
Generation Two
If Generation 2 Jet Shades can stay installed when parked, why do I need the storage case?
When flying at night you should remove the shades and place them in the polybag provided and stow them behind the pilot seat or in the cabin for quick access. The main use of the storage case is when the plane goes into maintenance. We have had damage to Jet Shades reported as technicians did not know how to handle them properly. Therefore we strongly recommend you remove your Jet Shades and place them in the storage case when you bring your aircraft in for maintenance.
Do Generation 2 Jet Shades require dealer installation?
In most cases, no. The new mounting system clips support the Generation 2 Jet Shades, and they do not rely on a friction fit as our original Jet Shades did. If you see a bend or wrinkle when installing Generation 2 Jet Shades, it is because somewhere around the edge, the Gen 2 Shade is too tight to the window trim. In these cases, the owner can remove the shade, pull back the rubber trim, and slightly trim it with a pair of sharp scissors. Then reinsert the shade to test fit again. Optionally, you can have a dealer install your Jet Shades.
Use, Cleaning & Storage
Can I leave Jet Shades in my windows when parked?
Jet Shades has a one-of-a-kind formulation that reflects most heat and absorbs only a small portion. They can remain in the windows while parked under most environmental conditions.
Generation 2 Jet Shades: Gen 2 Jet Shades are tested up to 200 degrees F and can stay in while parked. They will protect your aircraft interior from damaging UV as well as block more than 80 percent of Infrared heat. The result is foil guards can stay in the hangar, as they are not needed in the aircraft anymore.
Original Jet Shades: The Jet Shades will become about 20 – 30 degrees warmer than the interior temperature of your aircraft. In some climates, the interior could get over 140 degrees while parked, which may cause thermal expansion in the Jet Shade. Therefore, when the outside temperature exceeds 90 degrees while your plane is parked outside in the sun for over 2 hours, remove your Jet Shades from the windows.
How do I clean my Jet Shades?
Both original Jet Shades and Generation 2 Professional Series Jet Shades have a coating system that is applied to the surface of each Jet Shade that faces outward. For that reason, Jet Shades have both left and right orientations in the cockpit windows. To ensure the integrity of your Jet Shades it is imperative that they be cleaned properly and carefully to avoid damage. For light cleaning, simply wipe with a clean, microfiber towel. To remove heavier buildup, use approximately 1 tablespoon of baby shampoo per a half gallon of water and dampen the microfiber towel with the cleaning solution. Never soak or place the Jet Shades under running water.
What should I do if the Jet Shades get wet?
Immediately wipe them off with a soft cloth towel. Do not let the Jet Shades stay in moisture for any period of time. Always keep Jet Shades dry for best performance.
How should I store my Jet Shades when not in use?
The safest place to store Jet Shades is in the microfiber Jet Shade case included with most orders. Jet Shades that do not have a case are best stored in a clean dry place and kept in a low traffic area to prevent scratching. In areas with high humidity or significantly high temperatures (over 90*F) it is best to remove the Jet Shades into a lower humidity environment.
What if it gets dark or goes from day to night while flying? Can I remove my Jet Shade in flight?
Yes, Jet Shades are easily removed while flying with the Autopilot engaged. The instruction manual included provides directions for easy removal. DO NOT attempt to remove your Jet Shades in flight unless the autopilot is verified as on and functioning or a qualified crewmember has control of the aircraft.
Can I use foil guards with Jet Shades?
No, Jet Shades cannot be used at the same time as foil guards. Foil guards are not needed when Jet Shades are installed and can scratch the Jet Shades when inserting and removing them.
How do I clean my Ultra-Thins?
Ultra-Thins have a coating system that is applied to the surface of each panel that faces outward. For that reason, Ultra-Thins have both left and right orientations in the cockpit windows. To ensure the integrity of your Ultra-Thins, it is imperative that they be cleaned properly and carefully to avoid damage.
For a light cleaning (such as removing fingerprints), simply wipe with a clean, microfiber towel. To remove heavier buildup, use approximately 1 tablespoon of baby shampoo per half gallon of water and dampen the microfiber towel with the cleaning solution. You can place the Ultra-thin briefly under running water then blot with a paper towel of microfiber cloth. It is not recommended to submerge or soak the Ultra-thins.
Can I use foil guards with Ultra-Thins?
The Ultra-Thins block heat from entering the aircraft while parked, therefore you can leave them in while parked and eliminate the need for foil guards. While Ultra-Thins have been tested to withstand temperatures up to 200° F, placing foil guards behind them will add extra heat to the Ultra-Thins and shorten the product life. Therefore, we do not recommend placing foil guards behind the Ultra-Thins.