Why aeroplanes ✈️ are usually white?
We differentiate between aeroplanes belonging to different airlines with the help of their distinct logos and decorations. But the base colour of the plane is almost white.
Painting the aeroplane white is most practical and economical. White is a standard colour that is easily available. The more the layers of paint, the more expensive it gets. It also adds to the overall weight of the plane and subsequently adds to the fuel bill. Another point in its favour is that white does not fade as quickly due to exposure to elements as do darker colours.
When in the sky, white reflects most of the sunlight, thereby keeping the body of the aeroplane cool. White increases the visibility of the plane, whether it is in the sky or on land, night or day. In the event of a plane crash, the wreckage is better visible in water. On the ground, effects of corrosion, cracks, leaking oil, etc. reveal themselves more easily on white.
Nevertheless, some airlines do boast colourful planes--- in 2014, Air New Zealand painted its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fully black with a white fern on its tail to celebrate the success of its national rugby team, the All-Blacks.
