Duncan Aviation has revealed its paint experts in Lincoln, Nebraska have given a new custom paint treatment to the Gulfstream G550 recently acquired by American rapper and record executive Rick Ross.

From the initial conversation with Ross, Jeff Beaudette, senior Completions and Modifications sales representative, Mary Lee, senior lead designer, Hannah Caulkins, associate designer knew this aircraft would be all about ramp presence.

“He wanted a very unique, personalised design that makes a statement,” said Lee. “He wanted to incorporate his name on the plane and requested to use another color aside from white for the overall base.”

From there, Caulkins and Lee researched Ross to ensure they had a clear understanding of his brand. “Purchasing this aircraft was a huge accomplishment for him and we recognised that,” said Lee. “We wanted to make sure the paint scheme was reflective of this accomplishment. Throughout the entire process, he was super excited and easy to work with, all while being very complimentary of our work.”

Caulkins said she enjoyed the opportunity to create such a specialised scheme. Also, knowing how thrilled he was with their final design concept was truly rewarding, she said.

The gloss black and pearl gold two-tone base became the backdrop for ‘Rick Ross’ lettering that was strategically placed along the fuselage. The design team worked with the paint shop to create a custom, high-reflective gold for the lettering to achieve the desired high-impact effect.

Beaudette suggested taking advantage of the view from the tail camera and adding ‘Biggest Boss’ to the backside of the engines.

Brian Woolsey, leader, Paint Team, Duncan Aviation said no one knows the additional lettering is there until you see it displayed on the monitors from inside the aircraft. “It adds a unique element to the paint scheme,” he said.

Adam Barry, Duncan Aviation Paint Detail Team leader Adam Barry said he is proud of the hard work and extra time his team put into this project, as it was not a typical paint application. “We strive to make sure every aircraft that comes through Duncan Aviation exceeds our quality standards,” said Barry. “This was no exception.”

Duncan Aviation project manager Mason Minchow said Rick Ross was elated when he saw his aircraft for the first time. He spent a great deal of time in front of the aircraft documenting the experience to his social media platforms. “You could tell by his expressions how excited he was and how much this meant to him,” said Minchow.

On his Instagram page (@richforever), Ross said, “This is my first jet I ever bought, so I said if I’m gonna do it, I’m gonna do it right! Duncan Aviation I appreciate the love.”

He went on to say, “When you want to do it big, come to Duncan Aviation!”

Watch the video of Rick Ross as he reacts to seeing the aircraft for the first time: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjwOB_a8AJs