Why Does Webbing Matter in Aviation?
Webbing does actual structural work on aircraft and military equipment. Cargo restraints, tie-downs, seat and personnel restraints, harnesses, parachute and aerial delivery equipment, and all sorts of equipment straps are examples of where webbing carries loads and resists forces. A restraint or tie-down assembly is only as good as the webbing that it contains.
That's why aerospace and military webbing is specified. Each specification defines the breaking strength, weave, width, thickness, and finish, and the combination of those properties gives the webbing its rated performance. Webbing that meets the full specification allows the finished assembly to pass proof tests and perform in service as designed.
Where Is Webbing Used Across Aviation and Defense?
In cargo aircraft, helicopters, and ground vehicles, the load is secured with tie-down straps, cargo nets, and restraint systems. Seat belts, harnesses, and restraint systems protect crew and passengers. Parachutes and aerial delivery systems use webbing in the form of risers, harnesses, and load-carrying components for both personnel and cargo.
Webbing straps and retainers also secure emergency equipment, cabin fittings, and tools. On the ground, they secure engine covers, inlet plugs, and all kinds of protective equipment. In the field, they are part of load-carrying equipment, packs, and pouches.
We supply webbing for aircraft manufacturing, MRO, military programs and equipment fabrication. Our customer base comprises airlines, MROs, OEMs, drone manufacturers, military operators, government agencies and private aircraft owners.
What Properties Define Aircraft Webbing?
Breaking Strength
Breaking strength is the first thing to look at. That's the load the webbing can carry before it fails, and it's the figure that the final assembly is rated on.
Weave
Plain, twill, and tubular weaves each balance strength, flexibility, and abrasion resistance differently, and tubular webbing's hollow, two-layer construction adds durability and a softer edge.
Width and Thickness
Width and thickness affect load capacity, how the webbing fits buckles and hardware, and how it sits against a body or load.
Elongation
Elongation is the amount of stretch the webbing has under load (ranging from very low stretch to controlled give for shock absorption).
Finishes
Finishes will add water repellency, flame resistance, abrasion resistance and color.
Webbing Materials
What Is Nylon Webbing Used For?
Nylon is the go-to for aircraft and military webbing. It's strong, abrasion-resistant, and stretches a known amount under load, which is useful for shock absorption in restraint and tie-down applications. It's used in cargo straps, tie-downs, harnesses, parachute components, and all kinds of equipment retention.
When Should You Choose Polyester Webbing?
Polyester stretches less than nylon and is far more UV stable over the long term. It's the material of choice for load-bearing straps that need to maintain tension and for webbing that sits in the sun on the ramp or in outdoor storage. It's also highly moisture-resistant and retains its strength when wet.
What Makes Kevlar Webbing Different?
Kevlar is an aramid fiber with a very high strength-to-weight ratio and good high-temperature tolerance. Kevlar webbing offers high breaking strength at low weight, making it ideal for structural and military applications where weight is at a premium. It is also cut-resistant and maintains strength at high temperatures.
Where Is Nomex Webbing Required?
Nomex is a flame-resistant aramid fiber. Nomex webbing is used where fire exposure is a requirement (crew equipment, restraint components, assemblies near the engine, etc.). It resists ignition, won't melt, and won't drip, which helps protect people and equipment as temperatures climb.
What Are Polypropylene and Glass Webbing Used For?
Polypropylene webbing is lightweight, floats in water, and resists moisture and a wide range of chemicals. It's used for general-purpose straps, handles, and light-duty retention. Glass (fiberglass) webbing can withstand very high temperatures and resists chemicals. It's used in high temperature applications such as insulation retention and heat-resistant wraps.
What Is Elastic Webbing Used For?
Elastic webbing in nylon, polyester, and cotton constructions stretches and recovers, providing a secure yet flexible hold. It's used in equipment retention straps, cushion and cover fasteners, pocket and pouch closures, and other applications where you need a strap to maintain steady tension on whatever it's holding.
When Is Cotton Webbing Used?
Cotton webbing has a soft hand, good grip, and a traditional look. It's used in military equipment, aircraft interiors, and other applications that call for a natural fiber rather than a synthetic one.
Webbing Types & Materials
- Polyester
- Kevlar
- Polypropylene
- Nylon
- Glass
- Nomex
- Others
- Nylon Elastic Webbing
- Cotton Webbing
- Nylon Webbing
- Polyester Webbing
- Mil Spec Ribbons
Does Jaco Supply Mil-Spec Webbing?
Yes, we do. Jaco Aerospace supplies webbing and woven web constructions to military spec, covering a wide range of breaking strengths, widths, weaves, and finishes for military, aerospace, and commercial aviation applications. If your drawing specifies a particular military spec, then please send us a request for quote with the spec number.
Mil-Spec Part Numbers
- MIL-T-2283E
- MIL-T-5608G
- MIL-W-5625K
- MIL-T-5666D
- MIL-T-6134C
- MIL-T-8363B
- MIL-W-9049D
- MIL-W-17337F
- MIL-W-21773
- MIL-T-26089
- MIL-W-27265E
- MIL-W-27657B
- MIL-T-27736A
- MIL-T-43664B
- MIL-W-43668C
- MIL-T-48260
- MIL-R-87017B
- MIL-W-87127
- MIL-T-87130
- MIL-W-38282A
- MIL-T-38283A
- MIL-W-38328B
- MIL-W-43685B
- MIL-T-43709B
- MIL-W-81116B
- MIL-W-81528
- MIL-Y-1140H
- MIL-C-20079G
- MIL-W-44049A
- MIL-W-83144A
- Mil-T-5038 Woven Tape
- MIL-W-5664
- MIL-T-5038
- MIL-T-43566
- MIL-W-4088
- MIL-W-5665
What Colors, Sizes, and Custom Orders Are Available?
We supply webbing in a full range of colors, widths, and lengths, from a short piece for a single repair to full rolls for production programs. Custom orders are routine. If you need a specification, width, color, or construction not listed on our website, we can work with our manufacturer partners to make it.
Lead time depends on the construction and quantity. Send us a quote request with the details, and our team will get back to you with pricing and timing.
What Certifications Come With Each Order?
Jaco Aerospace supplies only new, non-surplus materials from authorized manufacturers. Each order includes:
- A Certificate of Conformance
- Manufacturer certifications
- Full traceability
Order Aircraft Webbing From Jaco Aerospace
Jaco Aerospace has been an authorized worldwide distributor of aviation parts and materials since 1971. AOG orders get top priority, and most orders ship the same day. Find the webbing needed for your application needs on our website, or send the specification, width, color, and quantity for pricing and lead time.