Van’s Aircraft, Inc. was founded in 1973 by Richard “Van” VanGrunsven, an engineer and pilot who set out to design a better-performing homebuilt aircraft. His original design, the RV-3, quickly earned attention for its excellent flight characteristics and sparked widespread interest among amateur builders. What began in a small shop behind his home in Oregon has since grown into one of the most respected kit aircraft manufacturers in the world.

Today, Van’s Aircraft operates from a 60,000 square-foot facility at Aurora State Airport (KUAO) and employs approximately 118 people. The company has delivered tens of thousands of aircraft kits, with over 11,400 reported flying in more than 45 countries. Throughout its growth, Van’s has maintained a strong commitment to safety, quality, and performance. Most components are manufactured in-house or sourced domestically, enabling precise control over production standards. This focus on consistent quality, innovation, and builder satisfaction has made Van’s Aircraft a leader in the kit aviation industry.