Kim Lorentzen Provides a Tour of Lancair’s Redmond Facility

As composite structures began to emerge in the late 1970s, Lance Neibauer’s aviation interest quickly went from hobby to inspiration; having graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design, Neibauer believed he could develop a sleekly designed aircraft that optimized both performance and handling. 

The resulting Lancair 200 made its aviation debut in 1984, premiering for Oshkosh attendees the following year.  Exhibiting such advancement, the Lancair 200 is now displayed at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Museum in Oshkosh, WI.

The Lancair team became synonymous with innovative aircraft, including the Lancair 320/360, whose unprecedented design and beauty earned a display place at the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art.  In 1993, Neibauer launched Pacific Aviation Composites USA (later renamed ‘Columbia Aircraft’), eventually developing the type-certificated, piston single-engine Columbia 300.  In February of 2003, Neibauer announced the sale of his kit company to Joseph Bartels.  Since the sale, Bartels has led the company forward with Neibauer’s legacy, developing the new Lancair Evolution. 

Today the company offers seven Fastbuild kits:  The Lancair Legacy Fixed Gear, Lancair Legacy, Lancair ES, Lancair ES-P, Lancair IV, Lancair IV-P, and the Lancair Evolution. 

Located at the Redmond, OR airport, Lancair International operates a 38,000 square-foot facility featuring full service maintenance and builder assist programs; the builder assist program allows Lancair customers to receive hands-on technical assistance and guidance throughout their aircraft build.  Currently, the program is offered for all Lancair aircraft.

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