I’ll admit it—I once pulled into a campground and instantly felt like my little trailer disappeared into the background.
Why? Because right next to me was a gleaming silver Airstream that looked like it had rolled straight out of a retro-futuristic dream.
I couldn’t help but wonder: who owns Airstream RV today, and how did this timeless design manage to stay relevant for nearly a century?
That curiosity turned into a bit of an obsession. I dug into the history, the ownership story, and the details that make Airstream one of the most beloved names in the RV world.
And trust me—it’s just as fascinating as the trailers themselves.
Is Airstream Privately Owned?
Image source- airstream.com
Nope, Airstream isn’t a small family-run shop anymore. While the brand started with Wally Byam’s vision back in the 1930s, today it operates under THOR Industries, Inc.
THOR is a massive, publicly traded company that owns a portfolio of RV brands. If you’ve spent time on the road, you’ve probably seen more than one THOR-owned name rolling past you—Heartland, Jayco, Keystone, and yes, Airstream.
The cool part? Airstream still runs as its own subsidiary. That means the company keeps its unique culture, design, and heritage alive, even while being part of a global RV powerhouse.
When Did Thor Industries Buy Airstream?
The timeline is pretty wild.
- 1967 – Airstream was sold to Beatrice Foods, a dairy and food company. Weird match, right? RVs and dairy under one roof.
- 1980 – Enter Wade Thompson and Peter Orthwein. They saw Airstream struggling and stepped in. They bought the company from Beatrice Foods.
- That same year, they created THOR Industries. Fun fact: “THOR” is literally just a mashup of their last names—Thompson + Orthwein.
So, in a way, Airstream is the reason THOR Industries exists at all. Without that purchase, THOR might never have been born.
Who Owns Airstream RV Today?
Image source- thorindustries.com
Airstream is fully owned by THOR Industries, Inc., which has grown into the world’s largest manufacturer of RVs.
THOR isn’t just a big name—it’s the umbrella for multiple brands. But Airstream sits in a special spot because it was the first major purchase that gave THOR its start.
To this day, Airstream’s headquarters and production remain in Jackson Center, Ohio, where each trailer gets its handcrafted polish before hitting the road.
So, when you spot an Airstream, you’re looking at a piece of RV history that launched a billion-dollar company.
Who Is the CEO of Airstream?
Image source- www.idsa.org
Currently, the president and CEO of Airstream is Bob Wheeler. He’s been at the helm since 2005 and is known for balancing tradition with innovation.
Wheeler’s leadership has kept Airstream loyal to its heritage while pushing it into the future with upgrades like solar-ready wiring, advanced towing systems, and even off-grid capabilities for boondockers like me.
Under his guidance, Airstream isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about function and forward-thinking design.
How Much Does an Airstream Cost?
Ah, the million-dollar question—though luckily, it won’t quite cost you that much. Airstreams are premium trailers, and their price tags reflect the craftsmanship.
Here’s a quick look at current ranges:
| Model | Starting Price (Approx.) |
| Basecamp | $46,000+ |
| Caravel | $75,000+ |
| Flying Cloud | $94,000+ |
| International | $109,000+ |
| Classic | $188,000+ |
Yep, you’re paying for an icon. But you’re also getting an RV that holds its value better than most. And let’s be real—pulling into a campground with one of these beauties feels like arriving in style.
How Did Thor Industries Become So Big?
The Airstream purchase was only the beginning. After 1980, THOR Industries went on a buying spree, adding big RV brands to its lineup.
Over the years, it became the giant we know today—dominating the North American market and expanding into Europe.
But Airstream remains its crown jewel. Why? Because it has a level of brand recognition that most RV makers can only dream of. The shiny aluminum silhouette is iconic—everyone knows it, whether they camp or not.
How Does Airstream Balance Tradition With Innovation?
Image source- Wikipedia
This is what keeps me excited about Airstream. While the outside looks timeless, the inside is a different story.
Modern Airstreams come with:
- Smart control systems for lighting and climate
- Solar panels and lithium battery options
- Lightweight aluminum frames for better towing
- Luxury interiors that feel like boutique apartments
It’s this balance—old-school looks with new-school tech—that keeps the brand alive and appealing to younger generations of travelers.
How to Tell If an Airstream Is Right for You?
Buying an Airstream is a commitment. Here’s how to figure it out:
- Budget first. Airstreams aren’t budget trailers. If you’re ready to invest, you’ll get lasting value.
- Think about your travel style. Do you love sleek design, road trips, and showing up at campgrounds with flair? Then an Airstream fits.
- Consider towing. These rigs are durable but heavy compared to some fiberglass trailers. Make sure your tow vehicle can handle the load.
If you’re looking for an RV that combines nostalgia, craftsmanship, and future-ready features, Airstream is tough to beat.
FAQs About Airstream Ownership
Is Airstream worth the money?
Yes—if you value durability, design, and resale value. Airstreams hold their value better than most trailers and last for decades with proper care.
Who owns Airstream RV now?
Airstream is owned by THOR Industries, Inc., which purchased the company in 1980 and still operates it as a subsidiary today.
Where are Airstreams made?
Every Airstream is built in Jackson Center, Ohio. The process is still highly hands-on, with skilled workers shaping and finishing each unit.
Do Airstreams need special maintenance?
Not really—but the aluminum exterior does require occasional polishing and care to maintain that signature shine. Otherwise, standard RV upkeep applies.
Shiny, Strong, and Still Rolling
So, who owns Airstream RV today? The answer is clear: THOR Industries, Inc. But what’s even cooler is that Airstream wasn’t just another brand THOR picked up—it was the very first, the one that started it all.
For me, that makes pulling up next to an Airstream feel a little more special. It’s not just a trailer. It’s a rolling piece of history that blends nostalgia with innovation. And whether you’re dreaming of one or already own one, you’re part of a legacy that shows no signs of slowing down.
My tip? If you ever get the chance to tour the Jackson Center factory, go. Seeing how these beauties are made will make you appreciate every rivet even more.
