Duncan Aviation’s MRO in Lincoln, Nebraska, recently transformed a 32-year-old Falcon 900B to meet the requirements of its new owner. As well as the creation of a new paint scheme, incorporating a new logo, the work included interior modifications including floorplan changes.
Greg Hatcher, owner of The Hatcher Agency in Little Rock, Arkansas, values the time savings of a business aircraft and was willing to invest in customising a pre-owned one. “I purchased this aircraft knowing it needed love and care,” he says. “In the end, I flew away with an aircraft that looks better than the new one next to it on the ramp, for a lot less money.”
Using a Duncan Aviation STC, the aircraft was modified for high-density, 16-passenger occupancy. Eight single seats and two four-place divans were foamed and upholstered to appear as if they were meant for three.
The seat leather is a light creamy colour, accented with a black welt cord outlining the features. The lower sidewall is black leather featuring an embossed pattern, with a contrasting stitch for added detail. The galley counter was finished in a light solid surface with a subtle grain to contrast with the rich and dark straight-grain veneer, which was applied vertically for a classic look. The carpet is a simple plaid with shades of black, grey and cream, to go with the seats and divan. A coordinating vinyl floor was selected for the galley for enhanced durability and ease of maintenance.
Impactful modifications
Duncan Aviation says the two things that had the most impact on the overall appearance were the modification of the drink rail to have a thinner profile, and the implementation of a new PSU designed in-house for a modern look. Blue, illuminated cupholders incorporate the owner’s favourite colour and provide an accent within the interior.
Hatcher was very involved in the project’s design decisions, and stipulated a modern look that would not quickly go out of style. “Mr Hatcher is very visual and relied on our design department’s guidance and the input of his family members,” said senior designer Stephanie Kuhn. “We illustrated many interior and paint options and selections along the way to ensure that he understood the design and overall aesthetic intent and felt comfortable with his final decisions.”
Kuhn credits Hatcher’s involvement and open communication for the project going very smoothly, without any surprises.
Changes along the way
The original workscope changed many times after the aircraft arrived at Duncan Aviation’s MRO in Lincoln, Nebraska – with a new Honeywell Ovation CMS, API winglets, FANS and Gogo Avance L5 wi-fi added. Each addition extended the project and pushed the delivery date, but Hatcher wasn’t concerned with having to wait. “I never regret doing something right,” he says. “I always regret cutting corners.”
It was Duncan Aviation’s reputation that brought this work to Lincoln. “When it comes to reconfiguring the interior of a Falcon aircraft, no-one has the quality and experience of Duncan Aviation,” says Hatcher. “The sales team was knowledgeable and able to answer all of my questions. The Duncan Aviation team took the time to work with me every step of the way. They made the process easy for me.”
Hatcher adds that everyone at Duncan Aviation was a professional and provided excellent service. If they found anything wrong, they made it right and made it safe. “It was remarkable to see this project come together,” he says. “It is a true testament to Duncan Aviation’s commitment to their customers.”
This Falcon 900B will be returning to Duncan Aviation at a later time for the installation of an updated EFI-890 flight deck.
