SCAPPOOSE, Ore. — In one of its most unique recent projects, Oregon Aero, Inc. has helped bring renowned aerospace engineer Burt Rutan’s Boomerang back to life with upgraded maximum-comfort Seating Systems and a new custom interior.

“This is just an incredible project to have been a part of,” said Tony Erickson, Chief Operating Officer for Oregon Aero. “The Boomerang is a historic, one-of-a-kind plane. To be able to contribute our expertise to get it flying in top shape again is really an honor.”

Unveiled in 1996, the asymmetrical Boomerang was championed as much for its unorthodox design as it was for its increased safety and fuel efficiency over other twin-engine planes. Rutan flew the plane for six years before hangaring it as other projects took his focus. Rather than donate it to a museum upon his retirement in 2011, however, Rutan decided that having someone restore the Boomerang and keep it flying would make for a better legacy.

One of Rutan’s engineers, Tres Clements, was more than happy to take on the project. He and his team restored the Boomerang in time for AirVenture 2011. But the plane still needed a new interior. That’s where Oregon Aero stepped in.

Known for precision-engineered seating systems that provide maximum comfort and improved safety, Oregon Aero custom designed VK SmartCushion^™ Systems with custom Fabric upholsteryfor the five Boomerangseats. They also installed newFabric side panels and replaced the carpet and headliner.

“The Boomerang was not built or designed around the interior,” said Clements, who flew the aircraft to Oregon Aero’s Scapoose facility for the work. “That really makes the final product from Oregon Aero a true testament to their ability to solve unique problems with a quick, high-quality, and elegant solution without compromising style.” 

Now that the Boomerang has been restored to its former glory — and even been improved on —Clements is excited to get the plane out and about. On the calendar for this year so far is a return to AirVenture in July, though now that the Boomerang has been upgraded with a much more comfortable interior, Clements sees no limits.

“I’m excited to take advantage of the Boomerang’s range and 12-hour endurance,” he said. “Thanks to Oregon Aero, the Boomerang now has the comfort to match its performance.”

For more information, please visit www.OregonAero.com.

About Oregon Aero, Inc.

A leader in engineering, testing, certifying and manufacturing advanced seating systems for aircraft and other applications, Oregon Aero, Inc. is known for providing The Ultimate in Flying Comfort^™. The company — AS9100 certified and home to an FAA-approved Repair Station — also specializes in headset upgrade kits, aviation and ballistic helmet upgrade kits, aircraft interior upgrades and pilot accessories. All Oregon Aero^® products are developed and manufactured in the U.S.A. To learn more, visit www.OregonAero.com and view the company’s online catalog and website. 800-888-6910. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.