Additive Manufacturing has been used in the aerospace industry for more than 30 years, and today all major aircraft and engine manufacturers have integrated the technology into their production processes. AM is also playing an increasingly important role in the construction of satellites and rockets in the aerospace sector.
The sky’s no limit
Additive Manufacturing (AM) holds major benefits for the aviation and aerospace manufacturing industry. From faster prototyping and shorter time to market across improved design flexibility, reduced material waste to lightweight construction and increased sustainability AM plays a growing part in the aerospace industry.
All the more reason to shine a spotlight on this dynamic application-driven industry with the diverse formats of the Formnext Industry Insights. Get inspired, stay informed, and be fully prepared when this key topic takes the stage at Formnext this November.
Whitepaper – Additive Manufacturing in aviation & aerospace
In our exclusive white paper "The sky’s (not) the limit”, we highlight the advantages of Additive Manufacturing for aviation and aerospace, especially the potential for cost reduction, material efficiency, and design freedom. We also examine the important certification processes for this industry and present application examples that illustrate the practical use of this technology.
We will provide you with in-depth insights in 6 chapters
- Introduction
- Advantages of AM in aerospace
- Materials and technologies
- Main applications at a glance
- Future prospects
- Checklist for a successful implementation
Formnext at AERO Friedrichshafen 2026 – Review
At AERO 2026, Formnext presented itself for the first time together with the AM providers Airtech, Bosch, Formlabs, and Renishaw at the joint booth “Additive Manufacturing by Formnext”. The focus was on the benefits of Additive Manufacturing for efficient and sustainable solutions in general aviation. Visitors gained practical insights into AM applications across development, production, and MRO, complemented by technical presentations and expert exchange as part of the stage program.
Formnext would like to thank all participating exhibitors and speakers for their commitment, expertise, and valuable contributions to a successful presence at AERO 2026.
Fon Mag Special aviation & aerospace
Additive Manufacturing has long been an integral part of the aviation industry. Many components are already made using Additive Manufacturing, making aircraft lighter and engines more efficient. Find here the latest articles about AM in aviation from Formnext Magazine 01/2026.
Formnext Technology Talks – our digital webinar series
The Formnext Technology Talks offer compact, digital deep dives throughout the year, focusing on key application industries within Additive Manufacturing. Regardless of the trade fair period, participants benefit from a current market overview, the latest insights, practical expert knowledge, concrete solution approaches, and direct exchange with leading industry experts.
You can watch the recording of the Technology Talk “Aviation & aerospace” online.
Expert Insights from Formnext
At the Application Stage of Formmext, application examples from aviation and aerospace were presented and discussed. It is definitely worth “tuning in” again!
