Frequently Asked Questions

We work on virtually all general aviation aircraft — from single-engine Cessnas and Pipers to twin-engine turboprops and light jets. Our facility can accommodate aircraft up to 12,500 lbs. If you're unsure about your aircraft type, give us a call.

We're located at 6895 Minnesota 135, Embarrass, MN 55732. We're about 30 minutes from Duluth, and we happily serve aircraft owners from across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and the broader Midwest region. We can arrange aircraft transportation if needed.

Yes. All our repair technicians hold current FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certifications. Our painters have extensive aerospace finishing experience and receive ongoing training from paint manufacturers. You can trust that your aircraft is in qualified hands.

Blackhurst Aviation was founded in 2008. That's over 15 years of serving aircraft owners in Minnesota and beyond. In that time, we've completed more than 500 aircraft projects, from simple repaints to complex structural repairs.

Yes, we provide free estimates for all services. For painting, we can often provide a quote based on aircraft type and your requirements. For repairs, we'll need to inspect the aircraft first. There's no charge for the inspection visit.

Most single-engine aircraft are completed in 2-3 weeks. Twin-engine aircraft and turboprops typically take 3-4 weeks. Light jets can take 4-6 weeks depending on complexity. Custom liveries with extensive graphics may require additional time. We'll provide a specific timeline with your quote.

We use only premium aerospace-grade paints from PPG, AkzoNobel, and Sherwin-Williams. These are the same manufacturers that supply major airlines and aircraft OEMs. We offer various finishes including gloss, satin, matte, and metallic.

Generally no. Our team is experienced in protecting avionics and sensitive equipment during the painting process. However, some customers prefer to remove high-value instruments for peace of mind. We'll discuss this option during your inspection.

With proper care, our paint jobs typically last 10-15 years or more. We provide a comprehensive warranty that covers peeling, blistering, and premature fading. Regular cleaning and annual waxing will help maximize the lifespan of your paint.

Absolutely. We can color-match existing schemes using spectrophotometer technology. Bring photos or paint chips if you have them, and we'll work to match your vision exactly. We can also recreate vintage liveries from photos.

We handle a wide range of structural repairs including corrosion treatment, sheet metal repairs, composite damage, wing tip repairs, landing gear damage, fuselage skin repairs, and more. If your aircraft needs structural work, give us a call to discuss.

Yes. We have extensive experience working with all major aviation insurance providers. We can handle the entire claims process — from initial damage estimates to direct billing. We'll work with your adjuster to ensure a smooth experience.

Signs that your aircraft may need repairs include visible corrosion, dents or deformations, paint cracks, unusual noises during flight, and flight control issues. Annual inspections often reveal hidden damage. If you suspect issues, we recommend grounding the aircraft and scheduling an inspection.

Yes. All repairs are performed per FAA-approved methods — either manufacturer repair manuals or FAA-approved data. We provide complete documentation for your aircraft records, ensuring continued airworthiness.