The preowned aircraft market is competitive to say the least. So how can you make your aircraft stand out among other options on the market for potential buyers? Consider an exterior paint and interior refresh before listing your aircraft. 

Buyers consider many facets when selecting an aircraft for purchase. Certainly make and model, functionality, and price come into play. But preowned buyers want to get as close to that “new aircraft” experience as possible. This means not only mechanical condition, but aesthetics as well.

Consider this scenario: Veta Traxler, West Star Aviation Senior Interior and Paint Designer, was approached by a client who planned on listing their Falcon 900 for sale but first wanted to explore a paint and interior package to freshen up the aircraft and increase the potential market for it.

It can be a challenge to balance a client’s personal aesthetic while catering to future buyers who will purchase the aircraft on the secondary market, but Veta personally worked with the client to select a color palette and materials that would be appealing to a wider range of potential buyers.

Veta utilized the existing matte finish veneer and plating while selecting neutral colors that are trending in that market sector. Putting a twist on textures and patterns allowed the interior to stand out. Staying true to her client’s desire for a pop of color, Veta incorporated a deep blue through pillows and a credenza pad where it could be easily eliminated if the end user preferred a different color. 

The client also knew we needed to create a design element on the back of the conference group seat, as it is the first thing a passenger sees when they walk into the main cabin. Instead of a large solid piece of plain leather, Veata added quilting to the back and bolsters, an element that is not often seen in this application, but it highlights the most visible areas even when people are seated.   

Other noteworthy elements of the interior include a heavy textured windowline fabric that not only provides a visual interest but also helps with sound dampening throughout the open cabin. The credenza pad allows for additional seating around the conference table for eating, entertainment, or conversations in business or leisure. 

Keeping the aircraft colors cohesive with the interior specifications, the exterior features a snow white base with stripes in cumulus grey metallic, misty blue metallic, and platinum metallic. The client incorporated a fine line detail, often seen on new OEM model aircraft. This element was utilized in a very simplistic way that not only draws your eyes down the fuselage but also creates depth where it crosses over the large predominate stripe. This choice showcases that it is possible to utilize a trendy design feature while keeping the overall aesthetic timeless.

The work was completed at West Star Aviation’s full-service GJT facility in just under three months.

The result? Don’t expect to see this Falcon 900 listed on the open market, as it was sold before the refurbishment was complete!