Mon, Oct 15, 2007
OK... its not a lot to
go on, but we do have a long talk scheduled with Alan Klapmeier
tomorrow in which we hope to get some more answers about a possible
Cirrus Design bid for the assets of bankrupt Columbia Aircraft.
In the meantime, we have received the following initial
statement from Alan in response to our questions about any possible
plans for Columbia -- which hints broadly at the possibility that
should CD get a hold of Columbia, that they will NOT shut it down,
but add it to their current product offerings.
At least... that's what we think it seems to say -- YOUR mileage
may vary...
Alan (pictured below) tells ANN that, "Naturally, Cirrus would
express interest given some of the similar advanced technologies in
the Columbia and how the line could compliment the current Cirrus
SR line. Cirrus has the ability to expand the business and at the
same time further enhance the value of our business. Obviously, we
also have the capabilities to take great care of the
customers."
One way or another, should CD jump into this contest, it's
obvious that Cessna's desire to acquire Columbia assets will
require some rethinking. Another bidder like Cirrus; i.e., one with
significant bonafides as a GA manufacturer (the big card that
Cessna brings to the game), takes this matter into new territory
entirely. Persons close to a number of the bidders in ths drama
believe that the future of this sale is likely to a pretty
long-drawn out affair. Bankruptcy sales as complex as this one,
especially when a number of parties are contesting aspects of the
sale's rules, are rarely concluded quickly. This does not bode well
for the near-term concerns of Columbia owners -- though a
successful sale to a company ready willing and able to take on the
many problems associated with this troubled line is obviously of
best long-term benefit.
As usual, ANN will keep you up to date as details develop...
More News
Runway Lead-in Light System Runway Lead-in Light System Consists of one or more series of flashing lights installed at or near ground level that provides positive visual guidance a>[...]
Aero Linx: Aviation Without Borders Aviation Without Borders uses its aviation expertise, contacts and partnerships to enable support for children and their families – at hom>[...]
Dave Juwel's Aviation Marketing Stories ITBOA BNITBOB ... what does that mean? It's not gibberish, it's a lengthy acronym for "In The Business Of Aviation ... But Not In The Busine>[...]
From 2010 (YouTube Version): Yeah.... This IS A Really Cool Job When ANN's Nathan Cremisino took over the lead of our Aero-TV teams, he knew he was in for some extra work and a lot>[...]
Also: Junkers A50 Heritage, Montaer Grows, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Vans' Latest Officially, the Carbon Cub UL and Rotax 916 iS is now in its 'market survey development phase'>[...]