Aviation Grease Guide: Types, Grades & Best Practices

What is Aviation Grease?

Aviation grease is a specialized lubricant designed for aircraft components that require long-lasting lubrication under extreme conditions. It helps reduce wear, prevent corrosion, and ensure smooth mechanical operation in high-stress environments such as landing gear, bearings, and control systems.

What is the Purpose of Grease in Aviation?

  • Reduces friction between moving parts
  • Prevents corrosion in high-moisture environments
  • Provides sealing properties to keep contaminants out

Ensures long-term lubrication under extreme temperatures and pressures

Types and Grades of Aviation Grease

What is the Best Grease for Aircraft?

The best aviation grease depends on the application, but common types include:

  • AeroShell Grease 33 – A universal, multi-purpose grease used in many aircraft components
  • Mobilgrease 28 – High-temperature synthetic grease for extreme conditions
  • AeroShell 22 – Ideal for wheel bearings and high-load applications

    Below are some Greases that can used in aviation:

Mobilgrease 28

NYCO GREASE GN 17

AeroShell Grease 33

AeroShell Grease 22

AeroShell Grease 64

High-Performance Greases for Aircraft Maintenance


Aviation greases play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of aircraft components. Designed to withstand extreme temperatures, high pressures, and demanding flight conditions, these specialized lubricants protect against wear, corrosion, and moisture, reducing maintenance needs and enhancing operational safety.

Why Are Aviation Greases Important?

Aviation greases play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of aircraft components. Designed to withstand extreme temperatures, high pressures, and demanding flight conditions, these specialized lubricants protect against wear, corrosion, and moisture, reducing maintenance needs and enhancing operational safety.

  • High Load Capacity – Withstands heavy mechanical stress and high-speed rotations.
  • Wide Temperature Tolerance – Performs in extreme cold and high-heat conditions.
  • Water & Corrosion Resistance – Protects components from environmental exposure.
  • Extended Service Life – Reduces wear and tear, prolonging component longevity.

Types of Aviation Greases & Their Applications

Airframe Greases

  • Application: Control surfaces, landing gear mechanisms, actuators, flaps, hinges, and joints.
  • Features: Oxidation resistance, water-repellency, anti-corrosion properties.}
  • Benefit: Ensures smooth movement of aircraft control systems and structural components.

Wheel Bearing Greases

  • Application: Landing gear wheel bearings, axle assemblies, and high-speed rotating parts.
  • Features: High load-bearing capacity, low friction, extreme temperature resistance.
  • Benefit: Protects wheel bearings under high-pressure conditions, preventing overheating and wear.

Engine & Accessory Greases

  • Application: Turbine engines, auxiliary power units (APUs), and engine accessories.
  • Features: High thermal stability, resistance to oil separation, excellent anti-wear properties.
  • Benefit: Ensures engine components operate smoothly under intense heat and pressure.

Multipurpose Aviation Greases

  • Application: Actuators, cables, general aircraft lubrication, non-critical moving parts.
  • Features: Versatile, corrosion-resistant, and water-resistant.
  • Benefit: Provides an all-in-one solution for various aircraft lubrication needs.

What is Grade 1 Grease?

Grade 1 grease has a softer consistency than Grade 2, making it better suited for low-temperature applications and easy flow in tight spaces.

What is Grade 3 Grease?

Grease is classified by NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute) grades, ranging from 000 (semi-fluid) to 6 (block-like solid).

  • Grade 3 grease has a firmer consistency than common aviation greases (e.g., NLGI Grade 2) and is typically used in high-temperature, heavy-load applications.

What is Grease 7 Spec?

Grease 7 (MIL-PRF-23827) is a synthetic-based grease designed for aircraft components that operate under high loads and wide temperature ranges. It offers superior oxidation resistance, water resistance, and anti-wear properties.

How Many Grades are in Grease?

Grease is categorized into seven NLGI grades:

  • 000 – 0: Fluid or semi-fluid greases
  • 1 – 2: Soft to moderately firm (most common in aviation)
  • 3 – 6: Firm to solid greases used for extreme conditions

Functions and Applications of Aviation Grease

What is the Function of Greasing?

Grease serves multiple roles in aircraft maintenance:

  • Reduces metal-to-metal contact in moving parts
  • Provides lubrication where oils cannot stay in place
  • Seals components against dust, dirt, and moisture
  • Enhances durability under vibration and extreme conditions

Applications of Aviation Grease

  • Landing gear and wheel bearings
  • Control surface hinges and linkages
  • Engine accessories and actuator systems
  • Cargo doors, slides, and cabin mechanisms

Functions and Applications of Aviation Grease

Aviation greases are manufactured to meet stringent industry standards, ensuring aircraft safety and efficiency. These lubricants comply with aviation regulatory requirements and are formulated to perform under extreme operational conditions.

At Favia International, we supply high-quality aviation greases for commercial airlines, military aircraft, MROs, and aerospace applications. Our products are carefully selected to meet the needs of aircraft operators worldwide.

Get best quote and Assistance for your Aviation Requirements!