New Owner Rebrands Airframes Alaska and Alaskan Bushwheels as McFarlane Alaska

Anchorage’s Aviation Backbone Gets a New Chapter Under McFarlane Alaska

For decades, Alaskan Bushwheels and Airframes Alaska have been the quiet heroes of backcountry aviation, providing the rugged parts and tires that keep pilots soaring across our state’s vast landscapes. Now, these trusted names are uniting under a new banner: McFarlane Alaska, marking a significant shift for Anchorage’s aviation industry and Alaskans who rely on these vital components.

The change began with Alaska Gear Company, based in Palmer, which acquired Alaskan Bushwheels and Airframes Alaska in 2024. Owner Sean McLaughlin recently sold these operations to Victor Sierra, a Kansas-based holding company, rebranding them as McFarlane Alaska. While Alaska Gear Company remains independent, focusing on a broader range of outdoor equipment, McFarlane Alaska will be dedicated to upholding the legacy of quality and reliability that Alaskan Bushwheels and Airframes Alaska have built. This includes continuing production of iconic Bushwheels tubeless tires – essential for landing on remote beaches and gravel bars across the Interior – and critical aircraft parts like fuselages for Piper Super Cubs, found in many a bush plane servicing communities like Talkeetna and Girdwood.

What This Means for Anchorage

This transition has local implications for Anchorage residents and the surrounding communities. McFarlane Alaska’s continued presence in Palmer and Fairbanks supports dozens of jobs in our region, contributing to the local economy. For pilots and mechanics throughout Alaska – from the oil fields of Prudhoe Bay to the fishing villages of the Bristol Bay – reliable access to these specialized parts is paramount. Maintaining this local production base ensures that Alaskans can continue to confidently navigate our challenging terrain.

Local Context

Alaska’s unique geography – dominated by mountains, tundra, and thousands of lakes – demands specialized equipment and expertise. Our reliance on bush planes for transportation and resource extraction is deeply rooted in our history and culture, with strong ties to subsistence communities and Native traditions. The legacy of Alaskan Bushwheels and Airframes Alaska reflects this spirit of self-reliance and the critical role aviation plays in connecting remote communities. The military presence in Eielson Air Force Base further underscores the importance of robust aviation infrastructure and maintenance.

What to Know

If you’re a pilot or mechanic in Anchorage or across Alaska, you’ll continue to find the same trusted quality and customer support under the McFarlane Alaska brand. You can find updated contact information and product details on the new website, [insert hypothetical website address here]. For those interested in supporting local Alaskan businesses, consider visiting the Palmer facility and learning more about the skilled craftspeople behind these essential components.

Let’s all take a moment to appreciate the dedication of the team at McFarlane Alaska and the enduring legacy of Alaskan Bushwheels and Airframes Alaska – ensuring that the skies above Alaska remain open and accessible for generations to come.