Cirrus Aircraft Expands Grand Forks Facility with 15M Investment

Cirrus Aircraft’s $15 Million Expansion in Grand Forks: A Strategic Boost to Aviation Manufacturing

Cirrus Aircraft, a leader in general aviation manufacturing, has officially broken ground on a $15 million expansion project at its Grand Forks, North Dakota facility. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to meet increasing global demand for its aircraft, particularly the SR series and the Vision Jet. The expansion is not just a milestone for Cirrus, but also a significant economic development for the Grand Forks region.

Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota, Cirrus has built a reputation for innovation, especially with its safety-focused designs such as the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). With over 10,000 SR Series aircraft delivered and more than 15 million flight hours logged, Cirrus continues to be a major player in the light aircraft market. The Grand Forks facility plays a pivotal role in the company’s manufacturing operations, and this expansion marks a new chapter in its growth trajectory.

The new 30,000-square-foot addition to the existing 170,000-square-foot site is set to significantly boost production capabilities. With plans already in place for a potential second-phase expansion of up to 90,000 square feet, Cirrus is clearly positioning itself for long-term scalability and competitiveness in the aviation industry.

Expanding Capacity to Meet Rising Demand

Manufacturing Growth and Infrastructure Investment

Cirrus Aircraft’s decision to invest $15 million into expanding its Grand Forks facility is a direct response to surging demand for its aircraft. In 2023 alone, the company delivered 96 Vision Jets, a figure that reflects both robust sales and rising interest in personal and business aviation. The expansion will not only increase production capacity but also modernize infrastructure to support advanced manufacturing techniques.

The construction project, scheduled for completion by spring 2026, will add 30,000 square feet of manufacturing space. This is the first phase of what could become a much larger expansion, with a second phase potentially adding another 60,000 to 90,000 square feet within five years. Such foresight indicates Cirrus’s confidence in sustained market growth and its intent to remain a leader in the sector.

“We’re delivering over 700 airplanes here, and with that demand, we just haven’t been able to get our facilities to keep up,” said Steve Thomas, Director of Operations at Cirrus Grand Forks. The expansion is expected to create approximately 50 new jobs over the next five years, further cementing Cirrus as one of the region’s largest employers.

“This is a world-class company that’s building something right here in Grand Forks.”, Mayor Brandon Bochenski

Community Support and Economic Incentives

The expansion has been made possible in part due to strong support from local government and economic development entities. Cirrus received a 10-year, 100% payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement from the city, Grand Forks County, and the Grand Forks School District. While the company will continue to pay its current property taxes, approximately $213,000 annually, it will not incur additional taxes on the new expansion until 2035.

Additionally, the Grand Forks Jobs Development Authority provided an interest buydown loan to assist with equipment purchases, backed by the Bank of North Dakota. These incentives reflect a strategic public-private partnership aimed at fostering high-tech manufacturing and economic diversification in the region.

“This expansion would not be possible without members of the community,” said Dante Tomassoni, Cirrus’s Director of Corporate Affairs. “This is a project that Cirrus is extremely excited about, not only because of our business growth, but because of our ability to contribute to this economy and this community.”

Positioning for the Future of Aviation

Cirrus’s investment in Grand Forks is not just about scaling production, it’s a forward-looking move to integrate next-generation technologies and respond to evolving market dynamics. The company’s flagship Vision Jet represents a unique offering in the personal jet category, and demand for such aircraft is expected to grow, especially among business travelers and high-net-worth individuals seeking flexible travel options.

Industry analysts from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) have noted a rebound in the aviation market post-COVID, driven by increased interest in private and personal aviation. Cirrus’s expansion aligns with this trend, enabling it to better serve a growing customer base while maintaining high standards in safety and performance.

By investing in its U.S.-based manufacturing infrastructure, Cirrus is also contributing to national efforts to strengthen domestic aerospace capabilities. This is particularly relevant in a global context where supply chain resilience and technological innovation are becoming increasingly critical.

Strategic Implications and Regional Impact

Economic Development in Grand Forks

Cirrus currently employs around 500 people at its Grand Forks site, making it one of the top employers in the area alongside companies like J.R. Simplot and LM Wind Power/GE Vernova. The expansion is expected to further boost local employment and stimulate related sectors such as construction, logistics, and services.

Since establishing its Grand Forks presence in 1997, Cirrus has evolved from a tenant in a city-developed industrial facility to a major corporate stakeholder in the region. The company’s decision to purchase and now expand the site reflects a long-term commitment to the community.

Local leaders have emphasized the importance of Cirrus’s role in Grand Forks’ economic ecosystem. “A lot of communities could’ve built this project, but you came to Grand Forks and said this is where you want to be,” said Mayor Bochenski. This sentiment highlights the mutual benefits of the partnership between Cirrus and the city.

Broader Industry Trends

The general aviation market is undergoing a transformation, with growing demand for efficient, safe, and technologically advanced aircraft. Cirrus’s emphasis on innovation, from CAPS to advanced avionics, positions it well to capitalize on these trends.

Manufacturers across the aviation sector are investing in facility upgrades and automation to meet production targets and regulatory standards. Cirrus’s expansion is consistent with this industry-wide shift toward leaner, smarter manufacturing practices.

Furthermore, the Vision Jet’s success has opened new market segments for Cirrus, differentiating it from competitors focused solely on piston aircraft. The Grand Forks expansion will support the production of critical components for both product lines, enhancing operational efficiency and product availability.

Conclusion

Cirrus Aircraft’s $15 million expansion in Grand Forks is more than a construction project, it’s a strategic investment in the future of general aviation and a vote of confidence in the Grand Forks community. By increasing production capacity, modernizing infrastructure, and creating new jobs, Cirrus is reinforcing its leadership in the aviation industry while contributing to local economic resilience.

As the company looks ahead to potential further expansions, the implications for both the region and the industry are significant. With strong public support, a skilled workforce, and a clear vision for innovation, Cirrus is well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of personal and business aviation.

FAQ

What is the scope of Cirrus Aircraft’s expansion in Grand Forks?
The current phase includes a 30,000-square-foot addition to the existing facility, with a potential second phase of up to 90,000 square feet over the next five years.

How will the expansion impact local employment?
The expansion is expected to create approximately 50 new jobs over the next five years, adding to the 500 people already employed at the Grand Forks site.

What incentives did Cirrus receive for this project?
Cirrus received a 10-year, 100% tax exemption on the new expansion and an interest buydown loan for equipment purchases through the Grand Forks Jobs Development Authority and the Bank of North Dakota.

Sources

• Grand Forks Herald
• Cirrus Aircraft
• General Aviation Manufacturers Association