MRO & Manufacturing
Cirrus Aircraft Expands Grand Forks Facility with 15M Investment
Cirrus Aircraft launches 30,000-sq-ft North Dakota expansion to meet jet demand, create jobs, and leverage local economic incentives.
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.
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
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
What is the scope of Cirrus Aircraft’s expansion in Grand Forks? How will the expansion impact local employment? What incentives did Cirrus receive for this project?
Cirrus Aircraft’s $15 Million Expansion in Grand Forks: A Strategic Boost to Aviation Manufacturing
Expanding Capacity to Meet Rising Demand
Manufacturing Growth and Infrastructure Investment
Community Support and Economic Incentives
Positioning for the Future of Aviation
Strategic Implications and Regional Impact
Economic Development in Grand Forks
Broader Industry Trends
Conclusion
FAQ
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.
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.
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
Photo Credit: Grand Forks Herald
MRO & Manufacturing
Airinmar Extends Aircraft Warranty Services Contract with Air Methods
Airinmar signs a multi-year extension with Air Methods to manage aircraft warranty and value engineering services for its 450+ fleet.
This article is based on an official press release from Airinmar.
Airinmar, a subsidiary of AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), has officially signed a multi-year extension to provide aircraft warranty management and value engineering services to Air Methods, one of the largest civilian helicopters operators in the world. According to the company’s announcement, this agreement prolongs a partnership that originally began in August 2020, reinforcing a strategic focus on cost efficiency and supply chain optimization.
The extended contract covers a massive fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft used primarily for emergency air medical transport. Under the terms of the agreement, Airinmar will continue to manage warranty entitlements, identifying, claiming, and recovering costs from manufacturers, while also providing value engineering support to ensure maintenance expenses remain aligned with fair market values.
The renewal highlights the increasing importance of outsourced technical management in the aviation sector. Airinmar’s role involves a comprehensive review of component repairs and warranty opportunities. By leveraging historical data and engineering expertise, the company aims to reduce the total cost of ownership for Air Methods’ diverse fleet.
According to the press release, the services provided include:
Jay Mahen, Senior Vice President of Operations at Air Methods, emphasized the importance of this partnership in maintaining operational readiness for their critical missions.
“We will continue to leverage Airinmar’s comprehensive engineering knowledge and expertise to help optimize our supply chain to provide safe and reliable lifesaving emergency air medical care.”
Jay Mahen, SVP of Operations, Air Methods
While the press release focuses on the continuation of services, the timing of this extension is significant when viewed against the broader financial backdrop of Air Methods. As reported in public financial disclosures, Air Methods successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late December 2023, shedding approximately $1.7 billion in debt. The company is currently navigating a “transformation journey” under new ownership, with a sharp focus on operational efficiency and profitability.
In our view, extending a contract with a specialist like Airinmar aligns perfectly with this post-restructuring strategy. For large fleet operators, the administrative burden of tracking warranties across thousands of components can be overwhelming. Outsourcing this function allows Air Methods to recover funds that might otherwise be lost to administrative oversight, directly improving the bottom line without compromising safety. Furthermore, the aviation maintenance (MRO) sector is currently facing inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints. By utilizing “value engineering,” operators can scrutinize third-party vendor quotes more effectively, ensuring they are not paying inflated prices for parts or labor, a critical capability for maintaining an aging fleet of 450 aircraft.
Airinmar has operated for over 40 years and is a global leader in component repair cycle management. Based in Berkshire, England, it was acquired by AAR CORP., a major provider of aviation services to commercial and government customers worldwide. AAR CORP. recently reported record sales of $2.8 billion for Fiscal Year 2025, driven largely by demand for aftermarket solutions.
Air Methods is the leading air medical service provider in the United States. Operating from approximately 275 bases across 47 states, the company delivers lifesaving care to more than 100,000 people annually, functioning essentially as a “flying ICU.”
Value engineering in this context refers to the analysis of repair costs and methods to improve value. It involves verifying that repair quotes align with market rates, determining whether a component should be repaired or replaced based on reliability and cost, and ensuring that repair shops do not perform unnecessary work.
According to the press release and company data, Air Methods operates a fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.
The original agreement was signed in August 2020. This recent announcement marks a multi-year extension of that initial contract.
Airinmar Secures Multi-Year Service Extension with Air Methods
Scope of Services and Operational Impact
Warranty Management and Value Engineering
Strategic Context: Efficiency in a Post-Restructuring Era
AirPro News Analysis
About the Companies
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Value Engineering” in aviation maintenance?
How large is the Air Methods fleet?
When did the partnership between Airinmar and Air Methods begin?
Sources
Photo Credit: AAR Corp.
MRO & Manufacturing
Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Expand Engineering Capabilities
Brookhouse Aerospace acquires Parker Precision to integrate CNC turning, milling, and grinding capabilities, enhancing supply chain services in the UK.
This article is based on an official press release from Brookhouse Aerospace.
Brookhouse Aerospace, a leading independent manufacturer of composite and metallic aero-structures based in Darwen, Lancashire, has officially announced the acquisition of Parker Precision. The move represents a significant step in Brookhouse’s strategy to vertically integrate its supply-chain and expand its internal engineering capabilities.
According to the company’s press release, the acquisition of the Wolverhampton-based precision engineering firm will allow Brookhouse to offer a more comprehensive “build-to-print” service to the aerospace and defence sectors. Parker Precision, known for its expertise in CNC turning and milling, will continue to operate from its existing facility in Bilston, retaining its 35-strong workforce.
The acquisition is described by Brookhouse leadership as a “strategic fit” designed to bring critical precision engineering processes in-house. By integrating Parker Precision’s capabilities, specifically Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, Brookhouse aims to reduce reliance on external suppliers for these specific processes and offer a complete supply chain solution.
Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace, emphasized the value this addition brings to the group’s service portfolio:
“We are delighted to welcome Parker Precision into the Brookhouse Aerospace group. This acquisition is an excellent strategic fit, enhancing our capabilities with Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, building on our strategy of providing a complete supply chain solution.”
, Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace
Rossiter further noted that the acquisition not only secures a skilled workforce but also opens access to new customer bases while strengthening the value proposition for existing clients.
Parker Precision, founded in 1952, has a long history of manufacturing, evolving from small tools for the lock industry to high-precision aerospace components. Under the new ownership structure, the company will function as a subsidiary of the Brookhouse Aerospace group. Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision, expressed optimism about the stability the deal provides: “The successful completion of this acquisition provides future certainty for our team. As part of Brookhouse, we look forward to the opportunity to further enhance our capabilities and capacity, to deliver customer requirements, advance expertise in key markets and grow the business.”
, Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision
The deal connects two major UK manufacturing hubs: Brookhouse’s stronghold in the North West Aerospace Alliance region and Parker’s base in the Midlands. This regional synergy is expected to support the group’s mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing the aerospace and defence industries.
This acquisition follows a period of significant investment for Brookhouse Aerospace. The company recently opened a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire, known as Balle Mill. According to verified industry reports, the company has invested heavily in new machinery to increase capacity.
Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace, framed the acquisition as a logical progression following these internal investments:
“Following our recent investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire and the installation of significant new machining capabilities, the acquisition of Parker Precision is just the next step in our mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing aerospace and defence industries.”
, Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace
Worth also indicated that the company remains in growth mode, stating that they “continue to evaluate, and are actively seeking, suitable additional opportunities.”
The acquisition of Parker Precision by Brookhouse Aerospace highlights a broader trend of consolidation within the aerospace supply chain. As Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) increasingly demand “one-stop-shop” solutions to reduce logistical complexity and risk, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers are under pressure to expand their internal capabilities.
By acquiring a specialist like Parker Precision, Brookhouse effectively secures its upstream supply chain for machined components. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control and potentially faster turnaround times, critical factors in the competitive aerospace and defence markets. Furthermore, retaining the Parker Precision brand and workforce suggests a strategy of stability rather than aggressive restructuring, preserving the specialized skills that make the target company valuable in the first place. Parker Precision specializes in precision CNC engineering, including CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding. They serve sectors such as Aerospace, Oil & Gas, Defence, Electronics, and Medical.
No. According to the announcement, Parker Precision will continue to operate from its current base in Bilston, Wolverhampton, as part of the Brookhouse Aerospace group.
Parker Precision employs 35 people, all of whom are being retained following the acquisition.
Brookhouse Aerospace is owned by Nord Aerospace Holdings (specifically Nord Aerospace Bidco Limited).
Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Strengthen Supply Chain Capabilities
Strategic Expansion and Vertical Integration
Operational Continuity and Regional Growth
Investment in Manufacturing Excellence
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Parker Precision specialize in?
Will Parker Precision move its operations?
How many employees does Parker Precision have?
Who owns Brookhouse Aerospace?
Sources
Photo Credit: Brookhouse Aerospace
MRO & Manufacturing
GA Telesis Expands Asia-Pacific Reach with South Korean Approval
GA Telesis Engine Services secures South Korean MOLIT certification to offer engine overhaul services and signs new deal with MIAT Mongolian Airlines.
This article is based on an official press release from GA Telesis.
GA Telesis Engine Services (GATES), the Helsinki-based engine maintenance subsidiary of GA Telesis, has announced a major expansion of its operational capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. According to an official company press release, GATES has received Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) certification from South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT). This certification authorizes the facility to perform full overhaul services on specific engine models for South Korean airlines.
In a simultaneous development, the company confirmed a new engine maintenance agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines. These announcements mark a strategic push by GATES to establish itself as a primary independent alternative to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) facilities in a region heavily reliant on narrowbody aircraft.
The newly acquired MOLIT approval is a critical regulatory milestone for GATES. Under South Korea’s Aviation Safety Act, foreign repair stations must undergo a rigorous audit of their quality control systems and technical procedures before they are permitted to release South Korean-registered aircraft to service. By securing this certification, GATES can now bid directly for heavy maintenance contracts with South Korean carriers without requiring third-party approvals.
According to the press release, the MOLIT approval covers full overhaul authority for three major engine types:
This scope is particularly significant given the composition of the South Korean commercial fleet. Market data indicates that the CFM56-7B is the primary engine for the country’s low-cost carriers (LCCs), including Jeju Air, T’way Air, and Jin Air, which operate substantial fleets of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Additionally, the CF6-80C2 remains in service with major carriers like Asiana Airlines and Korean Air for their widebody operations.
“This approval allows us to bring our world-class engine maintenance solutions directly to South Korean airlines, offering them a competitive alternative for their fleet requirements.”
, Statement from GA Telesis Press Release
Alongside the regulatory news, GATES announced a definitive agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines for the maintenance of its CFM56-7B engines. MIAT, the national flag carrier of Mongolia, operates a fleet centered around the Boeing 737-800. This contract underscores the technical capabilities of the Helsinki facility and provides MIAT with a maintenance partner located strategically between its Asian and European route networks.
The agreement validates GATES’ strategy of targeting operators who require flexible, cost-effective maintenance solutions outside of the traditional OEM network. By utilizing the Helsinki facility, MIAT gains access to a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) environment while maintaining logistical efficiency for its fleet. The Rise of Independent MROs in Asia
The entry of GATES into the South Korean market represents a shift in the regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) landscape. Historically, South Korean airlines have relied heavily on OEM-affiliated shops, such as the Korean Air Tech Center, or major regional players like ST Engineering. These relationships often come with rigid pricing structures and capacity constraints.
As an independent provider, GATES is positioned to compete on turnaround time (TAT) and workscope flexibility. For LCCs operating on tight margins, the ability to perform targeted repairs, rather than mandatory full overhauls, can result in significant cost savings. The “hospital shop” concept, which focuses on surgical repairs to return engines to service quickly, is likely to appeal to carriers like T’way Air and Jeju Air as their fleets age and maintenance events become more frequent.
Furthermore, the timing of the MOLIT approval coincides with a high demand for CFM56 shop visits globally. As supply chain issues continue to plague the new engine market (LEAP and GTF), airlines are holding onto older aircraft longer, increasing the need for reliable maintenance capacity for legacy engines like the CFM56 and CF6.
The GATES facility is located at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. According to company data, the site spans 180,000 square feet and features an integrated test cell capable of handling engines with up to 100,000 lbs of thrust. The facility has an annual capacity of approximately 200 engines.
With the addition of the South Korean MOLIT certification, GATES now holds approvals from major global regulators, including:
This broad regulatory portfolio allows the company to serve a diverse customer base across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, reinforcing its status as a premier independent engine maintenance provider.
GA Telesis Engine Services Secures South Korean Regulatory Approval, Expands APAC Footprint
Breaking Barriers in the South Korean Market
Authorized Engine Types
Strategic Partnership with MIAT Mongolian Airlines
AirPro News Analysis
Facility Capabilities and Global Reach
Sources
Photo Credit: GA Telesis
-
Commercial Aviation7 days agoVietnam Grounds 28 Aircraft Amid Pratt & Whitney Engine Shortage
-
Business Aviation3 days agoGreg Biffle and Family Die in North Carolina Plane Crash
-
Business Aviation2 days agoBombardier Global 8000 Gains FAA Certification as Fastest Business Jet
-
Defense & Military5 days agoFinland Unveils First F-35A Lightning II under HX Fighter Program
-
Technology & Innovation1 day agoJoby Aviation and Metropolis Develop 25 US Vertiports for eVTOL Launch