When it comes to aircraft refurbishment, the exterior is more than just a surface — it’s the face of the aircraft, a visual representation of brand identity, sophistication, and engineering precision. In business aviation especially, where appearance is closely tied to prestige and performance, the design of a livery or line scheme is not simply aesthetic; it’s strategic.
At Executive Aircraft Refurbishment, we understand that a well-executed line scheme does more than make an aircraft look exceptional. It reflects the owner’s vision, aligns with regulatory standards, and enhances the aircraft’s presence both on the ground and in the air.
What is a Livery or Line Scheme?
In aviation terms, a livery refers to the exterior paint scheme applied to an aircraft, including colours, logos, and striping that distinguish it visually. A line scheme, commonly used in business aviation, is more specific, referring to the striping patterns and accent lines that run along the fuselage, designed to enhance the aircraft’s form and silhouette.
Whilst commercial liveries are often uniform across a fleet, in the world of private and corporate aviation, each scheme is bespoke, carefully tailored to the aircraft type, the operator’s brand, or the owner’s personal taste.
Key Design Considerations
Proportions and Visual Flow
Line schemes must complement the aircraft’s physical structure. Designers take into account fuselage length, wing placement, window alignment, and other structural features. The aim is to create a scheme that flows with the airframe, adding dynamism without overpowering it.
Stripes placed too low can weigh the design down visually, while stripes that are too high may disrupt its balance. On larger jets, layered striping with different thicknesses can add refinement and a sense of motion.
Colour Selection and Paint Finishes
Colour plays a crucial role in defining character. In the business aviation sector, palettes typically consist of sophisticated neutrals, metallic tones, deep blues, or classic greys. More adventurous schemes may include accent colours, but always with careful consideration of contrast, light reflectivity, and overall harmony.
Finishes such as pearl, mica, or satin matte can dramatically alter the look and feel of a design, but also require precise application and specialised products to ensure durability under varied flying conditions.
Regulatory Requirements
Every livery must comply with aviation authority guidelines. In the UK and Europe, the CAA and EASA respectively stipulate requirements for registration marks, which must be a certain size, font, and level of contrast with the background colour.
Exit markings and safety labels must remain unobstructed and clearly visible. As a result, every exterior scheme must be carefully reviewed to ensure it meets the necessary operational and legal standards.
From Concept to Application
At Executive Aircraft Refurbishment, our design and application process is rooted in both creativity and precision.
Step 1: Consultation & Briefing
Our team works closely with the aircraft owner, operator, or designer to establish a creative direction. Whether it’s a subtle, timeless scheme or something bold and modern, we consider the aircraft model, existing branding, and intended message.
Step 2: Design Visuals
We produce high-quality 2D and 3D renderings to bring the concept to life, showing the aircraft from multiple perspectives. These digital mock-ups are crucial for assessing how light, shape, and colour interact across the aircraft’s surfaces.
Step 3: Surface Preparation
Once approved, the aircraft is prepared in our facility. The existing paint is removed or scuffed down, the surface is cleaned, and any imperfections are addressed. This stage ensures the best possible finish and longevity for the new paint scheme.
Step 4: Paint Application
Using precision masking and advanced techniques, our skilled technicians apply base coats, accent stripes, and any detailing. Alignment is critical — especially when striping continues across curved fuselage sections or joins between panels.
The process is completed with protective clear coats, a final polish, and a thorough quality inspection.
The Bottom Line
A refined livery or line scheme is more than just paint — it’s a statement. It reflects attention to detail, enhances resale value, and showcases the aircraft in the best possible light.
At Executive Aircraft Refurbishment, we combine design sensibility with technical excellence. Every aircraft that leaves our hangar carries not only a fresh coat of paint, but a renewed identity — one that commands attention and conveys confidence. Contact us for further information about your aircraft’s livery today.
