John W. Thorp began developing T-111 Sky Scooter 2-seater 1946, based on Lockheed Little Dipper. Formed Thorp Aircraft Co. 1949, Pacoima, CA, this design passed to Tubular Aircraft. In 1956 formed Thorp Engineering Co., Burbank, CA, producing 2-seat T-18 (later called Tiger), by 1980 over 1,300 plans sold and 220 T-18 flying. Tubular built improved T-211 (1964), limited production by Adams Industries before rights bought 1985 by Thorp 211 Aircraft Co.; product-liability laws then restricted marketing by Thorp Aero Inc., Kentucky, to foreign countries 1990 onwards.