Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a full aircraft repaint take?

A complete exterior strip and repaint typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the size of the aircraft, the complexity of the paint scheme, and any corrosion or surface issues discovered during stripping. Single-engine piston aircraft generally run 4–6 weeks. Light twins and more complex designs take longer. We provide a detailed timeline estimate with every quote and keep you updated throughout.

Do you strip down to bare metal, or can you paint over existing paint?

Our full repaint service always includes a complete chemical strip to bare aluminum. We do not paint over existing paint for full repaints. The reason is simple: painting over existing coats traps any existing corrosion and prevents proper adhesion, which shortens the life of the new paint job and can hide structural issues. The only exception is our touch-up and spot repair service, where we blend into existing paint in specific areas.

What paint products do you use?

We primarily use Sherwin-Williams Acry Glo Conventional and Sherwin-Williams Skyscapes aviation topcoats, as well as Axalta AF400 and AF700 aerospace finish systems. The right coating is selected based on the specific demands of your project. We discuss coating selection with every client during the estimate process. All products used are aviation-approved and designed for the UV, thermal, and chemical resistance demands of flight.

How much does a full aircraft repaint cost?

Aircraft painting costs vary based on aircraft size, scheme complexity, the condition of the existing paint and airframe. We provide free, detailed written estimates — contact us to discuss your specific aircraft.

Can I fly my aircraft to your shop?

Yes — we’re based at U56 Rigby Airport in Eastern Idaho. The field has a paved runway and is accessible to most general aviation aircraft. Call ahead to coordinate your arrival. Owners fly in regularly from Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and across Idaho. If your aircraft isn’t airworthy, contact us to further discuss. 

Can I design my own paint scheme?

Absolutely. Many clients come to us with a concept in mind — color preferences, a reference aircraft they admire, or a rough sketch. We work with you to refine it into a scheme that can be executed on your specific airframe. Before any color is applied, your design is laid out on the aircraft by hand and we send you a digital photo for final approval.

Do flight controls need to be rebalanced after painting?

Yes — and we do this as part of every full repaint. Flight control surfaces are removed before stripping, painted separately, and rebalanced to manufacturer specifications before reinstallation. Added paint weight can affect control balance; not verifying balance after a repaint is a safety issue. We treat this as a non-negotiable step in our process.

What happens if you find corrosion during stripping?

We stop and contact you before doing anything else. We photograph and document the affected areas and walk you through what we found, where it is, and what the treatment options are. Work on that area proceeds only with your knowledge and approval. There are no surprise charges for corrosion work that wasn’t discussed.

What aircraft types do you paint?

We specialize in general aviation aircraft, including Cessna 100 and 200 series, Beechcraft Bonanza, Baron, and King Air, Hawker 800 and 1000, Piper singles and twins, Pilatus PC-12, experimental and homebuilt aircraft, and light rotorcraft. Our lead painter Manuel Landa has also completed paint projects on light business jets, turbine singles, and large rotorcraft — including Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawks and Boeing CH-47 Chinooks.

Our facility at Rigby Airport (U56) features a 60x60 paint hangar with a 50-foot wide by 16-foot tall door clearance, and our runway is 4,000x50 feet — meaning most piston singles, twins, turboprops, and light jets can fly directly to us for their paint project. If your aircraft fits through the door, we can paint it.

If your aircraft isn't on this list, contact us — with 96+ aircraft in his career, Manuel has likely encountered something very similar.