Copyright ©2016, IGI Global. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global is prohibited. DOI: 10.4018/978-1-5225-0329-3.ch002 Chapter 2 24 Laser-Based Manufacturing Processes for Aerospace Applications ABSTRACT In this chapter the latest developments in Laser manufacturing technologies and processes, used in the aerospace industry, are discussed. Current developments in the aerospace industry are characterised by the reduction of manufacturing and exploitation costs. Thus, the need for implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies and processes in the aeronautic industry, ofering cost efective prod- ucts with improved life cycle, is becoming more and more imperative. Lasers can be used in many industrial machining processes for a variety of materials including metals, ceramics, glass, plastics, and composites. Laser beams, used as machining tools, are not accompanied by problems such as tool wear, tool breakage, chatter, machine defection and mechanically induced material damage, phenomena that are usually associated with traditional machining processes. The efectiveness of Lasers depends on the thermal nature of the machining process. Nevertheless, difculties arise due to the diference in the thermal properties of the various components. Panos Stavropoulos Hellenic Air Force Academy, Greece Angelos Koutsomichalis Hellenic Air Force Academy, Greece Nikos Vaxevanidis School of Pedagogical and Technological Education, Greece