Karen and Robert Duncan aboard Pitch, Roll & Yaw.
Near the entrance to the Lincoln Airport in Lincoln, Nebraska, there is a 14,000-pound, 23-foot-tall metal paper airplane sculpture titled Pitch, Roll & Yaw.
Created by Lincoln artist Shannon Hansen, the sculpture was commissioned by the Duncan Family Trust Foundation. The foundation was created by Robert and Karen Duncan to give back to the communities that support Duncan Aviation. Robert is the former chairman of Duncan Aviation, and Robert and Karen are the parents of Todd Duncan, Duncan Aviation’s current chairman.
The sculpture was donated to the city as part of Lincoln’s Entryway Project and only local talent was hired to create its permanent installation.
Hansen says, “The sculpture is not meant to be a deep abstract work. It’s a unique and playful piece that everyone can relate to.”
Lincoln’s Rivers Metals Products fabricated the massive sculpture, boasting a 20-foot wingspan, and delivered it to Duncan Aviation’s paint department in May for a top-notch aircraft paint job prior to its installation.
“The paper airplane has been around for more than 2,100 years, in one form or another. This iconic image signifies the joy and wonder that attracts many to aviation,” says Connie Duncan, Duncan Family Trust Foundation trustee and wife of Todd Duncan. “We are so honored to take part in this project and provide the city with a piece of aviation everyone can enjoy.”