After years of painting aircraft with automotive paints I have found that the best lasting paint in my opinion is PPG base coat clear coat.

Working with aircraft mechanics on the methods of painting planes, the old generation stressed the use of synthetic paints (pre 1970's era).

My first aircraft pain job consisted of using the recommended synthetic paint. I found that later when the aircraft owner involved wanted the color changed on a stripe that it created some recoat nightmares, trying to keep the base color from bubbling up.

My next choice of paints was urethanes which looked nice, on sea planes however it held in the corrosion, crating repairs the very next year.

When I switched to PPG two part epoxy the paint went on nice and hid corrosion less, making easier recoating with no lifting appearing like the best choice.

My fourth trial of paints was PPG base coat clear coat which created a very deep gloss and wet look.

This last choice was my favorite and I found that the clear helped hold in the color and the shine for many years compared to the two part epoxy.

With all the given benefits the clear coat came away the winner with years of shine.