Duncan Aviation paint experts at the Lincoln, Nebraska headquarters have given American rapper and record executive Rick Ross a custom paint on his newly acquired Gulfstream G550.

From the first conversation with Ross, senior completions and modifications sales rep Jeff Beaudette, senior lead designer Mary Lee and associate designer Hannah Caulkins knew this aircraft would be all about ramp presence.

“He wanted a very unique, personalised design that makes a statement,” says Lee. “He wanted to incorporate his name on the plane and requested a colour other than white for the overall base.”

From there, Caulkins and Lee researched the owner to ensure they had a clear understanding of his brand.

“Purchasing this aircraft was a huge accomplishment for him, and we recognised that,” explains 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 says she enjoyed the opportunity to create such a specialised scheme, and knowing how thrilled he was with their final design concept was truly rewarding.

The gloss black and pearl gold two-tone base became the backdrop for 'Rick Ross' lettering strategically placed along the fuselage. A custom, high-reflective gold was created for the lettering to achieve a high impact.

Beaudette suggested taking advantage of the view from the tail camera and adding 'Biggest Boss' to the backside of the engines. Paint team leader Brian Woolsey says 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.”

Paint detail team leader Adam Barry is proud of the hard work and extra time his team put into this project, as it wasn’t a typical paint application.

“We strive to make sure every aircraft that comes through Duncan Aviation exceeds our quality standards,” he says. “This was no exception.”

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

On his Instagram page (@richforever) Ross says: “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.”