Advanced 3D printing technologies for the aircraft industry: a fuzzy systematic approach for assessing the critical factors

In the aircraft industry, three-dimensional (3D) printing can confer several benefits, such as shortened cycle times, reduced production costs, and lighter part weights. However, some concerns must be addressed for 3D-printing applications to be viable. This paper investigated these concerns by reviewing the current 3D printing practices in the aircraft industry. The literature review identified five factors critical to the applicability of advanced 3D printing technologies to the aircraft industry, and a fuzzy systematic approach was applied to assess the applicability and relative importance of the identified factors, combining fuzzy geometric mean and fuzzy analytical hierarchy process. The findings provide valuable input for countries or regions considering expanding 3D printing applications to their aircraft industries.